My husband and I were customers at Safe Harbor Cowesett in the South Yard for nearly a decade. We got to know everyone really well and loved our dock mates! When we first started looking around for a marina many years ago, it was important to find a place that was well-managed and taken care of. Back then, this marina was owned by the Brewer family who did just that. It was clear they took pride in their business. Unfortunately, they sold their business to Safe Harbor several years ago. At first, the differences in ownership were barely noticeable; however, it quickly changed as prices continued to skyrocket despite the neglected maintenance. Take the once beautiful hot tub by the pool for example. Instead of fixing it, SH decided to fill it in with cement!!!
In the 2023 boating season, we decided enough was enough. Our dock box took a hit during one of the storms early in the season. We informed management who assured us it would be taken care of promptly. Unfortunately, that was not the case which meant we were left with an exposed dockbox and no way to protect our belongings. A certain chartering company occupied the space next to us. After coming back from their trips, they would help themselves to our supplies. This continued despite us politely confronting them and telling SH management. About halfway through the season, when it was clear that our dockbox would not be fixed, we finally asked to be moved to another spot on our dock. Management complied.
Throughout the summer, the eroding breakwall did nothing to protect our marina from the surging water, and the old pilings and docks were not strong enough to stay put. A finger pier even detached from the main dock and flipped over! We went through the proper channels to ask them to evaluate the breakwall and fix it, but it never got repaired or replaced. In fact, the North Yard received materials for a new bulkhead instead!
When the prices came out for the 2024 season, we nearly doubled over! The outrageous price increases just didn't seem justified since SH had not done any repairs on the marina. Why pay more for less???
We changed marinas for the 2024 season and honestly could not be happier even though we do miss our dock mates. Do yourself a favor... if you are looking for a marina, make sure you ask about how they keep the place maintained. Ask members what they think. Do your homework. Marinas should be a place to relax, not worry if your property is going to be damaged due to their negligence. read more