These guides cover what boatyard salespeople and charter companies don't advertise: what a sailboat actually costs to own, how marine insurance works (and what it won't cover), what federal documentation does for you, and where to keep the boat. Each article is written for someone seriously considering a purchase or already in the first year of ownership.
Marine Insurance for Sailors: What Coverage You Actually Need
Hull insurance (agreed value vs. ACV), liability minimums, P&I, offshore endorsements, hurricane provisions, navigational warranties, and how the major marine insurers differ.
- Always buy agreed value, never ACV
- $300K liability minimum, $1M+ offshore
- Hurricane haul-out requirements
The True Cost of Owning a Sailboat: A Realistic Annual Budget
The 10% rule and why it's usually an underestimate. Real line items: slip fees, insurance, haul-out, diesel, rigging, electronics, and the full annual picture for coastal and offshore boats.
- 40ft coastal cruiser: $15K–$25K/year
- Slip fees $6K–$12K for a 40-footer
- Offshore bluewater: $20K–$40K/year
Boat Documentation vs. State Registration: What's Required and Why It Matters
USCG documentation vs. state registration — which to choose, why documentation is essential for offshore and international cruising, the NVDC process, ship's papers, and customs clearance.
- Documentation required for USCG preferred mortgage
- Simpler customs clearance internationally
- $26 annual NVDC renewal
Marina Slip, Mooring Ball, or Anchor: Comparing Your Options
The full cost and tradeoff comparison — marina slip security and amenities vs. mooring ball convenience vs. free anchoring. Liveaboard rules, the trend toward mooring fields, and anchorage apps.
- Marina slips: $150–$400/ft/year
- Mooring balls: $25–$55/night
- Free anchoring: 72-hour limits in most US harbors
About These Guides
These are editorial resources. Slip rates, insurance premiums, documentation fees, and regulations change. Always verify current figures with your specific marina, insurer, and the applicable state or federal authority — including the NVDC for documentation questions. The marina directory lists specific facility details for marinas across North America.