My own little survey..

The Eagle · 03-10-2009, 06:31 AM

Hi Guys & Gals,
The ice is slowly melting, the spring is near, and the economy is in "poor shape." I am trying to decied if I should rent a slip, for my boat as I usually do, or trailer it? The boat ramp is only about 100 yards from my home. Money is scarce, gas will most likely go up again, and so (like many of us, who are watching pennies) I am wondering, what the rest of the forum thinks? Has anyone heard, if the Marinas will lower their rental fees, in this economy, or once again have an increase? (I haven't heard anything from mine yet). Are people planning to come to the lake less often? I have a feeling I'll be spending more time at the Suissevale Beach this summer, and less time watching the Eagles from my boat. What do you think?
"The Eagle"

AC2717 · 03-10-2009, 06:37 AM

Why spend the money, if you are that close to the water save the slip rental money and use that for boat gas this year. That is what I would do, now if it were a mile or so then I would possibly put it at a slip, the one thing you will miss though is just lounging at the slip unless you know people who have their boat there already that you can hang out

No brainer- save the cash this year

brk-lnt · 03-10-2009, 07:34 AM

Like everything else, you have to decide what expenses in your life are "must have" and which are "optional". To me, the hassle of trailering my boat and dealing with the launch/retrieve hassle makes the cost of a slip or valet service worthwhile.

If you're eating ramen noodles already and still want to enjoy your boat, then you need to cut some expenses somewhere, and trailering might be what does it for you. Personally, I'd eat ramen before I'd deal with a boat ramp

Orion · 03-10-2009, 07:40 AM

If you need to share the ramp with the masses on the weekends, then the flexibility, eliminated waiting, and reduced stress of a dock might be worth it. If you can launch during the weekdays, then might be worth saving the $ if you need to.

NoRegrets · 03-10-2009, 07:48 AM

It is sad that we have such options but still need to prioritize what is important to us. When you hear of sad situations and sickness all around it is magical to step into boat and hear the sound of water slapping it. I am watching my dad's health fail. He just had to cancel the trip of his dreams to Alaska because he realized he doesn't have the strength anymore. My mother told me yesterday that he tears up knowing he can't do the things he used to do. If affordable please use the lake and try to live life to it's best. We plan to be there with our boat in April and share the summer with all who those that are blessed enough to still have a choice.

The Eagle · 03-10-2009, 11:01 AM

I guess I should have mentioned, my boat is a 22 foot SeaRay, and I usually am the only one (with my wife, who can neither drive a boat, nor back a trailor up) and doing that by myself, (both launching, moving the truck, docking while I move the truck, then holding the boat while I go get the truck...can you see where this is going?) Makes the slip my solution. But I am realizing that where I keep my boat, like any marina, is pretty pricy for just a few months. Also, if I give my slip up this year, I may not be able to get one again (without a LONG waiting list). So that is what prompted this "survey," to see how others are going to handle it. Is it worth the gamble of loosing your place in the marina? Is it better to just wait until "company," comes to help launch it? We have been at the same marina for over twn years and hate to give up our spot...but business is not very good right now, and I know the marina (even though they had empty slips last year) probably won't lower their prices.
"The Eagle"

Ropetow · 03-10-2009, 11:20 AM

I know there were empty slips in Alton Bay all last summer. And one can assume that this summer will have at least as many empty slips. No sign of any price-cutting, though.

GUD 2 GO! · 03-10-2009, 11:22 AM

You may want to consider valet service too. It might reduce the price a bit but you would have someone to launch and recover the boat when you need it.

sa meredith · 03-10-2009, 11:27 AM

I posted this in a thread yesterday, but it seems relevant here, as well:

We just got out bill for 2009 Valet service....April '09 to April '10, including winterizing for next year....$3000 for a 24' boat.
Attached was a note explaining that their waiting list was quite extensive, so please, PAY NOW, as we need to move our waiting list along.
Maybe, but, hhhhmmmmmmmm.........

kjbathe · 03-10-2009, 01:20 PM

...Get the slip. And even better, do valet (Cheaper and cleaner!)

The path to global economic recovery depends on people feeling good about themselves and life once again. Trailering and launching is a hassle. If you already have the boat, you should be watching the Eagles and enjoying the sound of waves lapping at your hull.

SIKSUKR · 03-10-2009, 01:27 PM

I would think valet would be an comprimize.Less money and not worrying about the launching alone issue and ramp hassles.

sa meredith · 03-10-2009, 01:51 PM

Valet is the only way we have ever done it, so I cannot compare the two.
It seems to be a good fit for me, as it is less work. Coming in at the end of the day, and not having to worry about securing the boat, and covering it (although covering is still a good idea, to keep things clean) is very convenient. Also, there are no worries about checking the boat, if we have three or four days of rain. It's in a building.
I'm not sure, however, it is cheaper than a slip. Seems about the same, although I may be wrong.
Year round valet for the past 3 or 4 years has been $2700/$3000. Currently $3000.
And we have gotten quotes in the past for $1600/$1700 for May thru Columbus Day. This year, $1800 for May thru Colubus Day.

donnamatrix · 03-10-2009, 03:28 PM

Eagle baby: We keep our boat same place as you do. The "valet" service, which we considered last year, is only a couple hundred bucks less than the slip. I don't think they will lower their rates, I am hoping the rates don't go up!! Have you gotten an invoice from them yet for this season? Should be coming out soon...I don't own a vehicle that can tow the boat, don't own a trailer anymore, getting too old for all that crap... it's a struggle . What a mess.

Toyorelle · 03-10-2009, 03:49 PM

I suggest either the valet or a slip. I have never trailered a boat, but one of our favorite pastimes at the marina I am in (when not out on our boat of course) is sitting next to the ramp and watch the boats pull in and out. There are at least 3-4 arguements between husbands and wives per day and numerous accidents due to props not being raised and/or plugs not being put back in. You will end up using the boat more and having a much better time and get more for your money if you keep it in the water or use valet.

The Eagle · 03-10-2009, 04:11 PM

Hi Donna,
No sign of the invoice yet (you know how slow they are at sending out bills)..Valet is only about $100 or so a year less, so I am still hoping "Something," happens to make the slip still afordable. Last year there were at least 5 empty slips all summer, so I'm hoping the owner does a little "Discount" for us renter who have been there for years (over 10 year for me). I hope he lowers his gas prices too...last year he was one of the highest, even after the prices dropped everywhere else.
The Eagle

VitaBene · 03-10-2009, 04:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Eagle

Hi Donna,
No sign of the invoice yet (you know how slow they are at sending out bills)..Valet is only about $100 or so a year less, so I am still hoping "Something," happens to make the slip still afordable. Last year there were at least 5 empty slips all summer, so I'm hoping the owner does a little "Discount" for us renter who have been there for years (over 10 year for me). I hope he lowers his gas prices too...last year he was one of the highest, even after the prices dropped everywhere else.
The Eagle

Interesting conundrum- my house is over near States Landing Beach so we just trailer (and beach it on Suissevale). If I lived closer to AC Marine I may go for a slip. Good luck with your decision. I will say that once you get a system down, even solo launch/retrieval is a piece of cake.

Dave M · 03-10-2009, 04:28 PM

Do you have a friendly neighbor. Assuming their dock is big enough, maybe you could "rent" a side of their dock. Probably would help them with gas money.

Dave M

The Eagle · 03-10-2009, 05:06 PM

Hi Dave,
That's a great suggestion, but I don't know anyone. I've been watching for someone to "post" an opening in the Suissevale area, but if I don't see it right away, it won't be there. I know, one way or the other, I'm still going to be at the lake, maybe not ON the lake as much, but I wouldn't give it up. I work so hard and long hours all year long and that's what I work for. Now, If the economy woud just turn around, I'd be happier.
The Eagle

momof3 · 03-10-2009, 06:46 PM

Eagle, I hear you!
We have been valeting since 2003, trailered up until that point. Love the valet service,but...pricey (fior me). A relative showed some interest with boating so has paid our Marina bill for the past several years, I tell you this because if it wasn't for him we would have stopped Valeting two years ago. For us this service is truly a luxury, one that if needed could be cut from the budget, I've said in other posts and i'll say it again, my husband was laid off for 10 mnths last year and the year before that was 5 mnths. As you can see with my username, I have 3 children, they are first. I do believe what another forum user said though, you live once, enjoy life to the fullest, if you can swing it do it, but if you are feeing uncomfortable with the money, trailer it, hey you still have a boat to enjoy, right?

Flylady · 03-10-2009, 07:30 PM

While not a problem I have to deal with, it seems to me that at this time of the year slip rentals are holding their prices...but if you could wait until Memorial day or later it would seem to be a better business decision for the dock companies is to rent the slip at a discount than not at all. I would be up front and ask for a discount.

Lakesrider · 03-10-2009, 07:42 PM

Well, I think you should just buy my boat slip (Number 29)at the Quayside Yacht club. It is only $129,000 with a 28' boat included. You can see my boat in the driveway on Oberdorf St....1st house on the right!

End of selfish plug....

secondcurve · 03-10-2009, 08:54 PM

Slip prices aren't falling? The slip I rented two years ago at Quayside for $3,100 was recently advertised in the classifieds in this forum for $2,400. Prices held up by and large in 2008, but this year they won't be as stable. The trend is clearly down. The only positive for slip rentals is falling gas prices.

Last year on this forum we were debating whether the economy was in a recession and some folks were able to make a good case that perhaps it wasn't. This year the talk coming from every media outlet is whether the US economy is moving into a depression. While it hasn't been true for a long-time, it is certainly true today that the slip renter has the power over the slip owner. Don't be afraid to use it.

Slip owners looking to rent in 2009 will be more motivated to cut prices early. If I were you I'd give up my existing spot if your marina isn't open to reductions and then pounce on someone who is stuck with a slip in May. Winnipesaukee will feel the economic crunch this year....retirees and second home owners are especially exposed and some of them will be looking to rent slips at any price.

The Eagle · 03-12-2009, 08:23 PM

Well I just got my slip fee for 2009. Forget about a break! The rate went up to $131 a foot, with nothing to offer! (no store, no real bath rooms, poor parking, exremely high gas) Looks like I'll be trailoring or not using it at all. Keep your eye out for my boat in the Classified!

jrc · 03-13-2009, 06:48 AM

The reductions are hitting the small owner earlier and harder than the large marinas.

Think about it. If you have 100 slips rented out for $3000, you can make $300K. Now if you leave 10 empty you still make $270K. If you lower your rate to $2500 and fill all the slips, then you only make $250K.

Now if you only own one or two slips to rent out and no one is calling at $3000. You have a choice of $0 or lowering your price.

So look to condo based marinas, where there are many owners competing for you business. The big guys will just ride out the downturn with a few empties rather than erode there perceived value.

momof3 · 03-13-2009, 08:53 AM

Eagle,
That just stinks....When we got our bill last year the increase was of course blamed on the oil prices, gas, heating their buildings, etc... they included a letter with the rate increase stating it was for those reasons. The big joke this year was will we get a letter stating the prices went down because fuel went down, etc...no such luck, however the prices did stay the same so we're good, I guess?!?!

The Eagle · 03-14-2009, 06:29 AM

JRC ..True, he would get more $ by keeping it high and only loosing the 10, BUT..he'd loose the money for "Spring Launch," which is usually a few hundred, plus the oil change, and tune up's, and the gas he'd sell, and goodness knows the maintainence and service on those boats as well. Then there's 10 less to winterize, shrink wrap and store for the winter. Sometimes in business you have to look at the big picture and not just the quick easy buck. Too many marina's look for the quick buck, and forget about what comes along with the service. Most slip owners are very loyal to their marina when it comes to service. That's a lot of money to kiss off!
"The Eagle"

NonVoting Taxpayer · 03-14-2009, 07:28 AM

Eagle
Since you have been a long time slip renter, why not go over and talk to the owner or the mechanic about your prediciment. You might find out the almighty dollar may not be the bottom line in their business. Long time loyalty may also come into play.

TomC · 03-14-2009, 08:17 AM

..is that people talk. If someone finds out that the guy next to him is paying less, what's the first thing that he does? Heads to see the owner/manager to ask 1) why he wasn't given the same rate? and 2) when can he expect a refund? Then the stampede starts....

Its better to have a formal "loyalty" program or discount for repeat customers so this kind of thing doesn't happen.

It has to be tough to know what to do with the rates in these cases. You know that the waterfront taxes surely didn't decline, the staff wants a raise (though its possible to freeze wages for a little while - til everyone quits), permits/fees for hazmat permits keep going up, and so on.

I looked into starting/buying a Marina and with waterfront going for $3-$5K per foot to buy (and 1-2% per foot per year tax bill) there really isn't any money in it...

jrc · 03-14-2009, 08:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Eagle

.... That's a lot of money to kiss off!
"The Eagle"

Good point, the math is different in a full service marina. Lots of variables in the boat business.

Kerk · 03-14-2009, 08:48 PM

I paid for my slip as an Island person and will till I sell the place! $$$$$$$ is killing it . JMHO:

03-10-2009, 06:31 AM	#1
The Eagle Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Burlington MA & Moultonboro NH Posts: 218 Thanks: 17 Thanked 141 Times in 33 Posts	My own little survey.. Hi Guys & Gals, The ice is slowly melting, the spring is near, and the economy is in "poor shape." I am trying to decied if I should rent a slip, for my boat as I usually do, or trailer it? The boat ramp is only about 100 yards from my home. Money is scarce, gas will most likely go up again, and so (like many of us, who are watching pennies) I am wondering, what the rest of the forum thinks? Has anyone heard, if the Marinas will lower their rental fees, in this economy, or once again have an increase? (I haven't heard anything from mine yet). Are people planning to come to the lake less often? I have a feeling I'll be spending more time at the Suissevale Beach this summer, and less time watching the Eagles from my boat. What do you think? "The Eagle"

03-10-2009, 06:37 AM	#2
AC2717 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Maynard, MA & Paugus Bay Posts: 2,573 Thanks: 753 Thanked 354 Times in 266 Posts	My thought Why spend the money, if you are that close to the water save the slip rental money and use that for boat gas this year. That is what I would do, now if it were a mile or so then I would possibly put it at a slip, the one thing you will miss though is just lounging at the slip unless you know people who have their boat there already that you can hang out No brainer- save the cash this year __________________ Capt. of the "No Worries"

03-10-2009, 07:34 AM	#3
brk-lnt Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: South Down Shores Posts: 1,944 Thanks: 544 Thanked 570 Times in 335 Posts	Like everything else, you have to decide what expenses in your life are "must have" and which are "optional". To me, the hassle of trailering my boat and dealing with the launch/retrieve hassle makes the cost of a slip or valet service worthwhile. If you're eating ramen noodles already and still want to enjoy your boat, then you need to cut some expenses somewhere, and trailering might be what does it for you. Personally, I'd eat ramen before I'd deal with a boat ramp __________________ [insert witty phrase here]

03-10-2009, 07:40 AM	#4
Orion Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Cow Island Posts: 914 Thanks: 602 Thanked 193 Times in 91 Posts	weekender? If you need to share the ramp with the masses on the weekends, then the flexibility, eliminated waiting, and reduced stress of a dock might be worth it. If you can launch during the weekdays, then might be worth saving the $ if you need to.

03-10-2009, 07:48 AM	#5
NoRegrets Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Hudson - NH Posts: 408 Thanks: 233 Thanked 212 Times in 88 Posts	You Only Live Once! It is sad that we have such options but still need to prioritize what is important to us. When you hear of sad situations and sickness all around it is magical to step into boat and hear the sound of water slapping it. I am watching my dad's health fail. He just had to cancel the trip of his dreams to Alaska because he realized he doesn't have the strength anymore. My mother told me yesterday that he tears up knowing he can't do the things he used to do. If affordable please use the lake and try to live life to it's best. We plan to be there with our boat in April and share the summer with all who those that are blessed enough to still have a choice.

03-10-2009, 11:01 AM	#6
The Eagle Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Burlington MA & Moultonboro NH Posts: 218 Thanks: 17 Thanked 141 Times in 33 Posts	Added Info for survey I guess I should have mentioned, my boat is a 22 foot SeaRay, and I usually am the only one (with my wife, who can neither drive a boat, nor back a trailor up) and doing that by myself, (both launching, moving the truck, docking while I move the truck, then holding the boat while I go get the truck...can you see where this is going?) Makes the slip my solution. But I am realizing that where I keep my boat, like any marina, is pretty pricy for just a few months. Also, if I give my slip up this year, I may not be able to get one again (without a LONG waiting list). So that is what prompted this "survey," to see how others are going to handle it. Is it worth the gamble of loosing your place in the marina? Is it better to just wait until "company," comes to help launch it? We have been at the same marina for over twn years and hate to give up our spot...but business is not very good right now, and I know the marina (even though they had empty slips last year) probably won't lower their prices. "The Eagle"

03-10-2009, 11:20 AM	#7
Ropetow Senior Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Rochester, NH / Bartlett, NH Posts: 322 Thanks: 228 Thanked 33 Times in 13 Posts	I know there were empty slips in Alton Bay all last summer. And one can assume that this summer will have at least as many empty slips. No sign of any price-cutting, though.

03-10-2009, 11:22 AM	#8
GUD 2 GO! Junior Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Laconia, NH Posts: 11 Thanks: 14 Thanked 2 Times in 2 Posts	You may want to consider valet service too. It might reduce the price a bit but you would have someone to launch and recover the boat when you need it.

03-10-2009, 11:27 AM	#9
sa meredith Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 986 Blog Entries: 1 Thanks: 32 Thanked 352 Times in 137 Posts	repost I posted this in a thread yesterday, but it seems relevant here, as well: We just got out bill for 2009 Valet service....April '09 to April '10, including winterizing for next year....$3000 for a 24' boat. Attached was a note explaining that their waiting list was quite extensive, so please, PAY NOW, as we need to move our waiting list along. Maybe, but, hhhhmmmmmmmm.........

03-10-2009, 01:20 PM	#10
kjbathe Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Posts: 281 Thanks: 3 Thanked 21 Times in 11 Posts	If you don't need the money for food and shelter... ...Get the slip. And even better, do valet (Cheaper and cleaner!) The path to global economic recovery depends on people feeling good about themselves and life once again. Trailering and launching is a hassle. If you already have the boat, you should be watching the Eagles and enjoying the sound of waves lapping at your hull.

03-10-2009, 01:27 PM	#11
SIKSUKR Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 5,075 Thanks: 215 Thanked 903 Times in 509 Posts	I would think valet would be an comprimize.Less money and not worrying about the launching alone issue and ramp hassles. __________________ SIKSUKR

03-10-2009, 01:51 PM	#12
sa meredith Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 986 Blog Entries: 1 Thanks: 32 Thanked 352 Times in 137 Posts	valet Valet is the only way we have ever done it, so I cannot compare the two. It seems to be a good fit for me, as it is less work. Coming in at the end of the day, and not having to worry about securing the boat, and covering it (although covering is still a good idea, to keep things clean) is very convenient. Also, there are no worries about checking the boat, if we have three or four days of rain. It's in a building. I'm not sure, however, it is cheaper than a slip. Seems about the same, although I may be wrong. Year round valet for the past 3 or 4 years has been $2700/$3000. Currently $3000. And we have gotten quotes in the past for $1600/$1700 for May thru Columbus Day. This year, $1800 for May thru Colubus Day.

03-10-2009, 03:28 PM	#13
donnamatrix Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Moultonboro Posts: 833 Thanks: 24 Thanked 258 Times in 120 Posts	Where ya been? Eagle baby: We keep our boat same place as you do. The "valet" service, which we considered last year, is only a couple hundred bucks less than the slip. I don't think they will lower their rates, I am hoping the rates don't go up!! Have you gotten an invoice from them yet for this season? Should be coming out soon...I don't own a vehicle that can tow the boat, don't own a trailer anymore, getting too old for all that crap... it's a struggle . What a mess.

03-10-2009, 03:49 PM	#14
Toyorelle Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Dracut / West Alton Posts: 37 Thanks: 12 Thanked 1 Time in 1 Post	valet/slip I suggest either the valet or a slip. I have never trailered a boat, but one of our favorite pastimes at the marina I am in (when not out on our boat of course) is sitting next to the ramp and watch the boats pull in and out. There are at least 3-4 arguements between husbands and wives per day and numerous accidents due to props not being raised and/or plugs not being put back in. You will end up using the boat more and having a much better time and get more for your money if you keep it in the water or use valet.

03-10-2009, 04:11 PM	#15
The Eagle Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Burlington MA & Moultonboro NH Posts: 218 Thanks: 17 Thanked 141 Times in 33 Posts	2009 slip invoice Hi Donna, No sign of the invoice yet (you know how slow they are at sending out bills)..Valet is only about $100 or so a year less, so I am still hoping "Something," happens to make the slip still afordable. Last year there were at least 5 empty slips all summer, so I'm hoping the owner does a little "Discount" for us renter who have been there for years (over 10 year for me). I hope he lowers his gas prices too...last year he was one of the highest, even after the prices dropped everywhere else. The Eagle

03-10-2009, 04:28 PM	#17
Dave M Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Posts: 395 Thanks: 4 Thanked 26 Times in 24 Posts	Another option Do you have a friendly neighbor. Assuming their dock is big enough, maybe you could "rent" a side of their dock. Probably would help them with gas money. Dave M

03-10-2009, 05:06 PM	#18
The Eagle Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Burlington MA & Moultonboro NH Posts: 218 Thanks: 17 Thanked 141 Times in 33 Posts	Dave: A good suggestion Hi Dave, That's a great suggestion, but I don't know anyone. I've been watching for someone to "post" an opening in the Suissevale area, but if I don't see it right away, it won't be there. I know, one way or the other, I'm still going to be at the lake, maybe not ON the lake as much, but I wouldn't give it up. I work so hard and long hours all year long and that's what I work for. Now, If the economy woud just turn around, I'd be happier. The Eagle

03-10-2009, 06:46 PM	#19
momof3 Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Methuen, Mass Posts: 25 Thanks: 1 Thanked 4 Times in 2 Posts	We Valet Eagle, I hear you! We have been valeting since 2003, trailered up until that point. Love the valet service,but...pricey (fior me). A relative showed some interest with boating so has paid our Marina bill for the past several years, I tell you this because if it wasn't for him we would have stopped Valeting two years ago. For us this service is truly a luxury, one that if needed could be cut from the budget, I've said in other posts and i'll say it again, my husband was laid off for 10 mnths last year and the year before that was 5 mnths. As you can see with my username, I have 3 children, they are first. I do believe what another forum user said though, you live once, enjoy life to the fullest, if you can swing it do it, but if you are feeing uncomfortable with the money, trailer it, hey you still have a boat to enjoy, right?

03-10-2009, 07:30 PM	#20
Flylady Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: So. California & Lakes Region Posts: 256 Thanks: 225 Thanked 106 Times in 61 Posts	Waiting to ask.. While not a problem I have to deal with, it seems to me that at this time of the year slip rentals are holding their prices...but if you could wait until Memorial day or later it would seem to be a better business decision for the dock companies is to rent the slip at a discount than not at all. I would be up front and ask for a discount.

03-10-2009, 07:42 PM	#21
Lakesrider Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 2,129 Thanks: 380 Thanked 1,016 Times in 345 Posts	Well, I think you should just buy my boat slip (Number 29)at the Quayside Yacht club. It is only $129,000 with a 28' boat included. You can see my boat in the driveway on Oberdorf St....1st house on the right! End of selfish plug....

03-10-2009, 08:54 PM	#22
secondcurve Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Posts: 2,117 Thanks: 1,325 Thanked 559 Times in 288 Posts	Slip prices aren't falling? The slip I rented two years ago at Quayside for $3,100 was recently advertised in the classifieds in this forum for $2,400. Prices held up by and large in 2008, but this year they won't be as stable. The trend is clearly down. The only positive for slip rentals is falling gas prices. Last year on this forum we were debating whether the economy was in a recession and some folks were able to make a good case that perhaps it wasn't. This year the talk coming from every media outlet is whether the US economy is moving into a depression. While it hasn't been true for a long-time, it is certainly true today that the slip renter has the power over the slip owner. Don't be afraid to use it. Slip owners looking to rent in 2009 will be more motivated to cut prices early. If I were you I'd give up my existing spot if your marina isn't open to reductions and then pounce on someone who is stuck with a slip in May. Winnipesaukee will feel the economic crunch this year....retirees and second home owners are especially exposed and some of them will be looking to rent slips at any price.

03-12-2009, 08:23 PM	#23
The Eagle Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Burlington MA & Moultonboro NH Posts: 218 Thanks: 17 Thanked 141 Times in 33 Posts	2009 Slip fee Well I just got my slip fee for 2009. Forget about a break! The rate went up to $131 a foot, with nothing to offer! (no store, no real bath rooms, poor parking, exremely high gas) Looks like I'll be trailoring or not using it at all. Keep your eye out for my boat in the Classified!

03-13-2009, 06:48 AM	#24
jrc Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: NH Posts: 2,689 Thanks: 33 Thanked 439 Times in 249 Posts	The reductions are hitting the small owner earlier and harder than the large marinas. Think about it. If you have 100 slips rented out for $3000, you can make $300K. Now if you leave 10 empty you still make $270K. If you lower your rate to $2500 and fill all the slips, then you only make $250K. Now if you only own one or two slips to rent out and no one is calling at $3000. You have a choice of $0 or lowering your price. So look to condo based marinas, where there are many owners competing for you business. The big guys will just ride out the downturn with a few empties rather than erode there perceived value.

03-13-2009, 08:53 AM	#25
momof3 Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Methuen, Mass Posts: 25 Thanks: 1 Thanked 4 Times in 2 Posts	That Stinks Eagle, That just stinks....When we got our bill last year the increase was of course blamed on the oil prices, gas, heating their buildings, etc... they included a letter with the rate increase stating it was for those reasons. The big joke this year was will we get a letter stating the prices went down because fuel went down, etc...no such luck, however the prices did stay the same so we're good, I guess?!?!

03-14-2009, 06:29 AM	#26
The Eagle Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Burlington MA & Moultonboro NH Posts: 218 Thanks: 17 Thanked 141 Times in 33 Posts	Penny wise pound foolish JRC ..True, he would get more $ by keeping it high and only loosing the 10, BUT..he'd loose the money for "Spring Launch," which is usually a few hundred, plus the oil change, and tune up's, and the gas he'd sell, and goodness knows the maintainence and service on those boats as well. Then there's 10 less to winterize, shrink wrap and store for the winter. Sometimes in business you have to look at the big picture and not just the quick easy buck. Too many marina's look for the quick buck, and forget about what comes along with the service. Most slip owners are very loyal to their marina when it comes to service. That's a lot of money to kiss off! "The Eagle"

03-14-2009, 07:28 AM	#27
NonVoting Taxpayer Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 98 Thanks: 3 Thanked 24 Times in 10 Posts	Talk to the Owner Eagle Since you have been a long time slip renter, why not go over and talk to the owner or the mechanic about your prediciment. You might find out the almighty dollar may not be the bottom line in their business. Long time loyalty may also come into play.

03-14-2009, 08:17 AM	#28
TomC Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Lakes Region Posts: 669 Thanks: 21 Thanked 87 Times in 58 Posts	the problem with a special deal.. ..is that people talk. If someone finds out that the guy next to him is paying less, what's the first thing that he does? Heads to see the owner/manager to ask 1) why he wasn't given the same rate? and 2) when can he expect a refund? Then the stampede starts.... Its better to have a formal "loyalty" program or discount for repeat customers so this kind of thing doesn't happen. It has to be tough to know what to do with the rates in these cases. You know that the waterfront taxes surely didn't decline, the staff wants a raise (though its possible to freeze wages for a little while - til everyone quits), permits/fees for hazmat permits keep going up, and so on. I looked into starting/buying a Marina and with waterfront going for $3-$5K per foot to buy (and 1-2% per foot per year tax bill) there really isn't any money in it...

03-14-2009, 08:48 PM	#30
Kerk Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 87 Thanks: 1 Thanked 7 Times in 7 Posts	Vaporlock I paid for my slip as an Island person and will till I sell the place! $$$$$$$ is killing it . JMHO: