Marina Tips for first timer

[Fishy Pete]

Hey all,
I'm going to dock my boat at a marina this year and was wondering
if I could get any advice or tips I should know. i.e. , paint the bottom or not.
yeah I'm clueless to the whole thing and don't want to find out the hard way.
The boat is a 20' Hydra Sport and we're going to dock it in Narragansett Bay.
I know I could trailer it but new baby and new house = no time . I hoping that if it's in the water already I can guilt myself ( and others ) into having to use it alot.
Thanks in advance
Peter

[Pauper Piscator]

Paint the bottom if you are in all season. Crappy job but the growth is crazy. DO NOT get copper based paint on aluminum. Very very bad.

Get BIG bumpers. Esp if your slip is exposed to boat traffic wakes.

Bring your own hose - some people are weird about this.

Security for equipment left on the boat. Do not trust human nature.

Get a "Bag" that has your boat stuff (camera, sunscreen etc). Whatever does not stay on the boat. Have this ready to roll. Will cut down on the "Forgot the stupid...."

Make friends with your well heeled Marina Mates. Marina's are a little like a CC. Shmooze shmooze shmooze. Accept offers of a drink. Attend events. Help catch a line or launch a boat. TRY to learn names. Do these things even if you are in a hurry. How long does it take to make a friend?

[stingray]

Bottom Paint is recommended! otherwise barnicle growth algea/water staining can build on the hull especially if you cannot use the boat much. This will cause major drag on the hull when in use. Trim your motor all the way up! otherwise you will go through zinc plates like crazy! Its a great deal having a slip, but maitenance will increase heavily on your boat, make sure your batteries are up to par, excess rain will cause some bildge pump drain!