As much as we hate to admit it, Maine’s boating season is rapidly coming to an end. Before we know it, the short summer will be behind us and it will once again be time to haul out and store our boats. As always, we have nearly unlimited outdoor storage space in the boatyard. Since we need to carefully plan our indoor storage capacity, we accept indoor storage reservations on a "first come - first served" basis with last year’s customers having the first opportunity to reserve a space. So, if you know that you would like indoor storage for your boat, please contact us as soon as possible. If you wait until October to contact us, there may not be any indoor space available.

We’re pleased to say that we will again offer last year’s 7 month storage discount (a 25% savings from our standard rates). Additionally, inside storage customers will no longer be charged for inside storage of spars. Since they are part of your boat, your indoor storage fee covers the spars too. 2009 brings another year without an increase to our standard storage rates also. They have not increased in the past 4 years! One minor change to our labor rates should have minimal impact to most customers. The few rates that were less than $55 per hour (depending on the task), will now be set with the rest of our rates at a consistent $55.

The new discount structure that we implemented last year was welcomed by most of our customers. Advance payment discounts, Prompt payment discounts, and Boat US labor discounts provide savings to everyone. Storage customers that also use our dockage, winterization, or repair services also qualify for additional discounts. If you can take all of the discounts we offer, you will have a significant savings over our standard rates. Refer to the enclosed rates and specials to plan for the charges for the services you desire.

We want you to reassure you that your boat is safe and secure at Winterport Marine. Our waterfront facilities took quite a beating from the spring storms this year. We expect to be performing significant repairs to our docks and facilities, once the boats are all safely tucked away for winter. The temporary repairs made this spring will be completed this winter. The docks should be reinforced and even stronger next spring.

Remember that we carry most of the materials and supplies needed for your personal projects as well. If you want something for the week-end, we can have it here ahead of time for your Saturday boat project. This can help you save time, gas, and money!

Eric and the crew at Winterport Marine & Boatyard