10 Most Expensive Boat Slips in the US
Explore the most exclusive and expensive boat slips in the USA with our in-depth guide.
July 31, 2024
Docking your yacht at a primo marina comes with a price tag that might just rival the cost of the vessels it accommodates. For boating enthusiasts who don’t bat an eye at dropping some serious dough for the perfect boat slips, here’s a splashy guide to the most expensive boat slips in the USA. Get ready to tie up your sea legs and open up those wallets—these are the penthouses of the piers, ladies and gents.
The inlet leading to South Beach Marina, one of the most expensive places to rent boat slips. Photo by Irasema McAllister.
1. Miami Beach Marina - Miami, Florida
Shell out $3,000 to $5,000 per month for boat slips at Miami Beach Marina, where your yacht's backdrop is the pulsating life of South Beach. Not only do you get easy access to some of the world’s best nightlife, but you’re also at the gateway to the Bahamas and the Caribbean for spontaneous sea escapes. Sun, sand, and opulence—Miami Beach Marina checks all the boxes. If you're looking to rub elbows with celebrities and influencers (or really good looking wanna-bes) while your yacht basks in the Florida sun, you’ll understand why this spot commands top dollar.
2. Marina del Rey - Los Angeles, California
With boat slips costing $2,000 to $4,500 a month, Marina del Rey offers more than just mooring; it offers a lifestyle. Here, you're minutes away from Venice Beach's famous boardwalk and a short drive to downtown LA, making it a perfect spot for entertainment moguls and ocean aficionados alike. Marina del Rey isn’t just a marina; it’s a lifestyle. Located in the boating capital of Southern California, this marina accommodates vessels up to 250 feet with slips that can cost as much as a luxury mansion. The amenities include high-end restaurants, beautiful parks, and proximity to the Los Angeles International Airport. It’s perfect for those who need a quick getaway after a weekend sailing the Pacific and mingling with Hollywood's elite.
3. Chelsea Piers - New York City, New York
For $4,000 to $6,000 a month, dock at Chelsea Piers, where the energy of Manhattan meets the tranquility of river life. This marina offers more than just a slip; it provides a cultural hub within walking distance of New York’s famed High Line and the art galleries of Chelsea. Where can you dock your boat and catch a Broadway show the same evening? This isn't just a marina; it's a slice of the Big Apple. Located on the Hudson River, it offers stunning views of the city skyline and easy access to the heart of NYC. The price for such convenience and prestige? Sky-high, but honestly competitive with rent prices in the area!
4. Nantucket Boat Basin - Nantucket, Massachusetts
Secure a boat slip for $3,500 during peak months and immerse yourself in the quintessential New England experience. The Boat Basin is a favorite for those attending the annual Nantucket Film Festival or seeking a quiet retreat with direct access to quaint shops and gourmet restaurants.
These pricey marinas offer more than just convenient location to their tenants. Photo by Adrienn.
5. Newport Marina - Newport, Rhode Island
At around $3,000 a month, Newport Marina isn’t just a place to dock; it’s a portal to America’s sailing capital. Here, yachters can enjoy the annual Newport Regatta or the famed Jazz Festival, making it a cultural and sporting paradise.
6. Yacht Haven Grande - St. Thomas, USVI
For about $2,500 a month, this marina is not just a mooring spot but a luxury destination offering high-end shopping and dining right on the docks. Perfect for those looking to explore the Virgin Islands or just enjoy some island time, its modern facilities ensure a comfortable stay. Okay, so it’s technically not the continental USA, but Yacht Haven Grande in St. Thomas deserves a mention for being one of the most lavish marinas under the American flag.
7. Bahia Mar Yachting Center - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Costing $2,000 to $7,000 monthly for boat slips, Bahia Mar hosts the internationally renowned Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. It features 250 slips with 3,000 feet of parallel dockage and deep-water access, making it ideal for superyachts.
8. Sausalito Yacht Harbor - Sausalito, California
Monthly fees for boat slips range from $1,200 to $3,500 at this picturesque marina, where you’re not just renting a slip; you’re buying into a bohemian lifestyle. This historic harbor is a stone's throw from San Francisco, offering a peaceful retreat with vibrant artistic community and stunning city views.
9. The Wharf Marina - Washington, D.C.
For $2,500 to $5,500, dock in the heart of the nation’s capital at The Wharf Marina, which combines upscale living with waterfront relaxation. It’s a part of a rejuvenated district featuring fine dining, year-round entertainment, and waterfront festivals.
Yachts pay by the foot when renting boat slips. Photo by Mohamed Hassan.
10. Boston Yacht Haven - Boston, Massachusetts
With rates from $3,000 to $5,000, this marina not only provides stellar amenities but also sits in the historic North End, Boston’s oldest residential community. It offers unparalleled access to Boston’s seafood restaurants, the New England Aquarium, and is a hub for the Fourth of July celebrations.
Each of these marinas offers unique advantages that go beyond the sea—cultural events, historical surroundings, and luxurious amenities, making them not just a place to dock your boat but a lifestyle choice.
