How it works
- You book a launch (phone or app), usually a few hours or a day ahead.
- A forklift takes the boat off the rack and puts it in the water at the marina.
- You return before closing; staff rinse it and put it back on the rack.
Pros and cons
Pros
- No trailer, tow vehicle or ramp queue.
- Hull stays dry: no growth, usually no antifouling.
- Usually roofed, fenced and staffed.
Cons
- Launches only during staff hours.
- Length, beam, weight and hull-shape limits.
- Often priced like or above a slip.
Size and hull limits
Forklift capacity and rack size set the limits. Ask for maximum length, beam and weight, and whether they take pontoons, catamarans, sailboats or boats with towers. Public example: the City of Miami's Marine Stadium Marina rack storage has a 27 ft minimum.
What it costs
| Facility | Type | Service | Published rate | Notes | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vero Beach City MarinaVero Beach, FL · City of Vero Beach | Dry storage (forklift launch) | Dry storage, annual contract | $20.00 per foot per month | Transient dry storage $30/ft/month; PWC $250/month. Taxes not included. | October 2025 |
| Miami Marine Stadium MarinaMiami, FL · City of Miami | Dry stack | Rack storage (27 ft minimum) | $29.77 per foot per month | Price adjustment effective Oct 1, 2026; before tax. | October 2026 |
| Liberty Harbor Marina (private)Jersey City, NJ · private marina, public rate sheet | Dry storage (on land) | Seasonal winter dry storage (Oct 15 – Apr 14) | $100.00 per foot per season | Monthly dry storage $25/ft (25–64 ft); check/cash price, +3.5% by card. | 2026–27 season |
Compare a dry stack quote with a slip or a trailer space: open the tool.
Questions to ask
- How far ahead do I book, and what are the launch hours in and out of season?
- Is wash-down included? Fuel on the way out?
- Who is liable for forklift damage and what insurance do you need?
- Can I leave gear aboard? Can I work on the boat?
Frequently asked questions
Do I need bottom paint in dry stack?
Usually not, since the boat is out of the water between trips; ask the marina whether they require it.
Can I use my boat any time?
Only during launch hours. Many dry stack marinas close earlier outside the season.
Sources: City of Miami marina rates; Vero Beach City Marina rates, October 2025; Liberty Harbor Marina dockage rates; Search results reviewed 27 Oct 2026: boats.com, BoatUS (page blocked to automated reading), Neighbor. Guide reviewed on 27 Oct 2026 by the Nautsy team. Spotted an error? Tell us.