Guest Tracker is a campground management software, but did you know it also handles marina management? If you’re a marina owner, you know it’s a complicated business that requires hands-on management.
A robust software package like Guest Tracker is the first step to organized marina management. Your guests can make reservations online from a computer or mobile device, book slips by size, and view your marina policy and photo gallery. Here are six more tips to think about, whether you’re an established marina owner or just getting started.
6 Tips for Marina Management
1. Record Fuel Levels Daily
If you have a fuel dock, you’ll want to measure your tanks at the same time each day. Choose a time when you can measure and record every tank and conditions are similar (for example, first thing in the morning). Take start- and end-of-day readings from your registers. Finally, reconcile the register readings to the fuel measurements. This ensures you’ll notice any discrepancies immediately, and you’ll also have historical data for future fuel purchases.
2. Manage Store Inventory Levels
If you manage a store as part of your marina, don’t be afraid to discount merchandise at the end of season. Inventory you have to store over the months when you close (or even over a slow season) costs you money. This is especially true if your inventory is perishable or likely to be replaced by a newer product. Mark down your inventory before seasonal closes and recoup some of that potentially lost income.
3. Keep Boat Trailers Organized
Boat trailer buildup can be a real problem at marinas. Dennis Kissman wrote an excellent blog post on why boat trailer storage occurs and how to minimize associated costs and troubles. A solid boat trailer strategy will keep this problem from getting out of hand.
4. Create A Marina Policy—And Stick To It
You might have many common-sense rules for your marina, but don’t expect your guests to anticipate them. It’s better to write down your marina policy and post it on your website and around your marina. In addition, ask guests to review your marina policy as part of the reservation process. Common marina policies include safety rules (for example, requiring guests to stay clear of staff areas, having an emergency plan, and prohibiting swimming at the marina), hours of operation, contact information, and payment requirements. Train your staff on how to enforce your policy.
5. Be Smart About Dry Stack Storage
Dry stack storage is a necessary part of many marinas. Without proper planning, though, dry storage can become a fire risk for your marina. Keep your storage area free of flammable items, and have an emergency plan for if a fire occurs. Read more tips about dry stack storage management from Signal Connect.
6. Keep Your Website Updated
A marina is a business, and keeping your website up-to-date inspires confidence in your business and brings in more traffic. Even if your basic website information remains the same, ensure your contact information is up-to-date and that contact forms are working. If you maintain a blog, try to post monthly. Social media sites are the same. Frequent updates show an active, engaged staff that are ready to help. You can even encourage your guests to post pictures of their boats or scenic views to your social media page to build a larger following!
Manage Your Marina With Guest Tracker
These tips might seem straightforward, but keeping organized and managing even the small details can make all the difference to your marina. To keep your guest information, reservations, slip configuration, and payment solutions all in one place, contact Guest Tracker for a price quote. Or sign up for a free 30-day trial. Guest Tracker can help keep your marina running smoothly so you can concentrate on building your business.