Why Berth and Boat Sizes Matter
Why Berth and Boat Sizes Matter
When searching for a marina berth, many boat owners assume their boat will fit on a berth of the same size, or that the beam (width) of their boat will automatically fit on a berth listed with the same width. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Some marinas require the beam of the boat plus fenders to fit within the total berth width, meaning the usable space is slightly less than stated.
The same applies to length. In most marinas, even a small overhang can mean your boat is considered too long for a particular berth and will need the next size up. A few marinas do allow up to 10% extra on length, but nothing extra on beam, making it even more important to tell us the exact size of your vessel.
Unlike parking spaces on land, there’s no fixed standard for berth dimensions. Each marina designs its layout according to the harbour shape, local demand, and the type of boats it wants to attract.
This means berth categories can vary widely between ports, some offer gradual size increments, while others jump several metres between available lengths.
Why It Matters
When you enquire about a berth, your boat’s overall length (LOA), beam, and draft are critical. Marinas are strict because:
- Oversized boats can obstruct neighbouring berths.
- They may breach marina safety or insurance rules.
- They can reduce manoeuvrability in tight harbour spaces.
Even if your boat appears to fit, it might still exceed the marina’s official berth limits, meaning access could be refused.
Our Advice
When looking for berths to buy or rent, do not rely solely on the advertised dimensions. Instead:
- Confirm your vessel’s full LOA and beam size including any protruding features.
- Contact MarineOnline.co.uk We can assist you to decide on the most suitable berth for your requirements.
Berth sizing can be confusing, but that’s where expert advice makes all the difference. Whether buying, selling, or comparing ports, knowing the right fit saves time, money, and stress.
