A Guide to Buying a Boat in Coronado

Coronado, California, with its beautiful beaches, charming waterfront, and vibrant boating community, is an ideal place to own a boat. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a novice boater, there are several factors to consider when making your purchase.

Coronado Boating Areas

• Glorietta Bay: Enjoy peaceful cruising, fishing, or simply soaking up the sun in Glorietta Bay.  Rent a boat from Seaforth Boat Rentals or the Coronado Boathouse or launch your own vessel at the boat ramp then anchor at Stingray Point and frolic in the shallow water.  Remember to observe the no-wake zone that starts near the bridge, and be mindful of the young sailors from the Yacht Club Sailing program who may be practicing in the area.  For a delicious meal with waterfront views, check out the Coronado Boathouse Restaurant.  For an evening 

• South San Diego Bay: To the East are the Navy ships and to the West is the narrowest part of the Silver Strand.  Sailors come here for the cleanest wind in the bay and stay for the empty bayside beaches along Silver Strand State Park north of Crown Cove.  When the weather is warm, it is a great area for water skiing and wakeboarding.  

• Coronado Cays: These man-made islands offer a serene and protected environment for boating. The Cays feature private docks for waterfront properties and have slip rental options for Cays residents that don't have docks.  The Cays has a quiet luxurious charm and FEELS much further than 4.5 miles from the Del.  If you want to buy in the Cays, call my good friend Alyson Barre at Douglas Elliman, we're loosely associated ;-)

Marinas

• Loews Coronado Bay Resort: This luxurious resort offers a full-service marina with slips for boats of various sizes.  Boat owners can enjoy the resort's world-class amenities while visiting their vessels and have access to the complementary shuttle to the Village.

• Fiddler's Cove Marina: Located just north of Coronado, Fiddler's Cove Marina offers a variety of slip options and amenities, is the home of the Navy Yacht Club and including , water, and electricity.

Coronado Yacht Clubs

• Coronado Cays Yacht Club: This private club is located within the Coronado Cays and offers members a range of social and boating activities.  The club founded in 1972 and the current building built in 1994.  Beautiful location with 58 slips of varying sizes, a restaurant, swimming pool and a hot tub!

• Coronado Yacht Club: Established in 1892, this historic club is located on Glorietta Bay and provides members with a variety of boating programs and social events.  Coronado Yacht Club has 250 slips.

• Navy Yacht Club: Headquartered at Fiddler's Cove Marina just south of the Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, the Navy Yacht Club does have a small facility and its members are typically granted reciprocal privileges at other yacht clubs. 

Coronado Moorings

• Bay Bridge Roadstead: The moorings locate to the north of the Coronado Bay Bridge are managed by the good people at the San Diego Mooring Company.  This is by far the cheapest place to have a boat in Coronado, but you'll earn the discount with a slog through tidal muck during low tide and a paddle out to your vessel at any time.  It isn't convenient, but it is cheap and the views are awesome!

Factors to Consider When Buying a Boat in Coronado

• Boat Type: Choose a boat that suits your lifestyle and boating preferences. Consider factors such as size, speed, and amenities.

• Budget: Determine your budget and factor in ongoing costs such as maintenance, insurance, and fuel.

• Marina Fees: Research marina fees and availability in the areas you're interested in.

• Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations and licensing requirements.

• Insurance: Obtain adequate insurance coverage to protect your investment.

Additional Tips:

• Visit Boat Shows: Attend local boat shows to explore different models and compare prices.

• Consult with Experts: Seek advice from marine professionals, such as brokers and yacht captains.

• Consider a Charter: Renting a boat can be a great way to experience the boating lifestyle before making a purchase.

By carefully considering these factors and exploring the unique boating opportunities that Coronado offers, you can find the perfect vessel to enhance your enjoyment of the coastal lifestyle.