[Nero Gatto]

I'd would like some opinions on this subject as well.

I recently purchased waterfront property with an existing dock that is shaky at best. I am probably going to replace it soon but I'm not sure which way to go for my circumstances, particularly after reading some varying comments in this thread.

The current dock is 20' long and is sitting on ledge. I recently watched as the guys who installed it tried to pound the pipes into the rock and got nowhere. I am on a very windy point with exposure from about 220°. I have serious doubts as to whether it will securely hold my 4,000 lb boat while I'm away for extended periods. As a new seasonal dock would extend an additional 20', I'm guessing I would not have the same problem with ledge out at the end. I'm planning on diving the area to check out the bottom as soon as the water warms up a bit.

The people I bought from had the good sense to apply for a breakwater and a permanent dock before I bought. I recently got approval for the project but I'm undecided if that's the way to go. I know it would most likely be the strongest alternative but but it has some drawbacks as well. The initial cost would be a 4X that of a new aluminum seasonal, I don't know what's involved in the upkeep and repair, and I'm not too sure if I want to deal with bubblers every winter after reading a thread on that subject. On top of all that my neighbor is appealing my permit because they are afraid that the breakwater would somehow negatively effect their property. I don't think it would effect them at all but since I have no direct experience I couldn't honestly say for sure. For that matter I don't know what the effect would be on my property either.

As you can see, I'm torn. I know what they say about opinions but I would love to hear some anyway.