Here's what I've come up with so far. I'm trying to compile a complete checklist, but I already posted this one. Anyone have some more to look for? I've slated this one for typical US/So Cal marinas.
- Is there adequate parking?
- Is it a security Marina? Do they have a security guard at night?
- Are Gangways locked or can anybody walk the docks day and night?
- Are there night lights in the parking lot and on the docks?
- How clean are the Men's and Women's rest rooms?
- Are there showers available in the rest rooms?
- How far will you have to walk from your car to your boat?
- Are there enough dock carts? What kind of shape are they in?
- Are there adjacent restaurants/cafes/convenience stores/fuel docks/bars?
- Is there a sanitation pump out station in the marina to dump your porta potti and your holding tank?
- Are the dock boxes big enough?
- Can you leave your hose coiled up around your own hose bib?
- Is there adequate power at your slip for your boat. 30amp, 50amp? Is electricity usage charged extra?
- Can you get satellite TV?
- Is there a dinghy rack for each finger/are they full?
- Is there a garbage can on each dock?
- Is there a Dumpster for your use?
- Does the marina have storage lockers for your extra gear?
- Is there a lot of bird droppings on the docks/ dinghys/boats/cars in parking lot?
- Is there doggy doo in the planter areas or parking lot?
- Are there a lot of noisy kids running around on the weekends?
- Are there many derelict boats in the same size slips you will be leasing?
- Are there live aboard slips available?
- Is there a laundry facility in the marina?
- Will the office occasionally accept and sign for packages or deliveries sent to you?
- Is there a yacht club nearby that you could join?
- Do the other boaters in the marina seem friendly?
- Are the docks and fingers well maintained and in good condition?
- Are there adequate means of tying up? Secure Dock Cleats or Pilings in good condition?
- How congested are the Fairways? How much room do you have to maneuver in and out of your slip.
- Is it well protected from open waters? Swells? Adequate sea protection?
- How close are you to open sailing grounds?
- Is there a laundry?
- Is there a Pool?
- Is there a book/chart exchange?
- What is the ratio of power to sail?
- Can you clean fish on the docks?
- What repair services can be had at the dock and does the marina take a cut?
- Does the pump out work consistently? Can it be used with your draft and manoeverability?
- Where is the nearest haulout/travelift?
- Do you have to wait for bridges to get out to sailing grounds?
- What are requirements of boaters in named storms?
- What are insurance requirements?
- Are live-aboards permitted?
Thank you to sailortjk1 , WinterRiver, chucklesR, and camaraderie for contributing to this list!
Anyone have some more to look for?