Boating in Orange Beach, Alabama: Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Boat
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
Boating is at the heart of the Orange Beach lifestyle, and as a real estate advisor and homeowner on Ono Island, I’ve seen firsthand how owning the right boat can completely transform your time on the water. Whether you’re fishing in the back bays, heading out into the Gulf, or cruising to waterfront restaurants, having the right vessel makes all the difference.
I often get questions from homeowners and prospective buyers about what kind of boat is best for living in Orange Beach or on Ono Island. So, I’ve put together the top 10 questions I’m most often asked—along with my answers based on experience, local insight, and conversations with neighbors and marine experts.
1. What kind of boat is best for Orange Beach living?
It depends on how you plan to use it. For offshore fishing, a center console or sportfisher is ideal. For cruising the Intracoastal or hitting Robinson Island, a dual console or pontoon might be your style. If you're like many Ono Island homeowners, you may want a boat that can handle both inshore fishing and sunset cruising.
2. How deep is the water behind most homes on Ono Island?
Water depths vary by location. Main canal homes often have deeper water, while some interior canals can be shallower at low tide. If you own or plan to buy a larger boat (30’+), make sure your dock accommodates your draft. I always help buyers factor in boat size when searching for boater-friendly properties.
Explore Ono Island homes with private docks
3. Is it better to buy new or used?
That’s really about preference and budget. New boats offer warranties and the latest tech, but used boats can offer better value—especially if they’ve been serviced locally and stored on lifts. If you’re buying used, have a marine survey done, even if the boat looks pristine.
4. What are the most popular boat brands in Orange Beach?
You’ll see a lot of Yellowfin, Sea Hunt, Boston Whaler, Pursuit, Pathfinder, and Contender—especially among serious anglers. Grady-White and Scout are favorites for family cruising with comfort and fishability. For pontoons, Bennington and Godfrey are well-loved by weekend sandbar goers.
5. Should I install a boat lift at my home on Ono Island?
Absolutely. A boat lift helps protect your investment from saltwater corrosion, wave action, and barnacle growth. It also makes maintenance easier and keeps your boat cleaner. If your future home doesn’t have one, I can recommend trusted local marine contractors to install one.
6. What’s the best way to store a boat in Orange Beach?
If you don’t live here full-time, covered storage or a lift behind your home is ideal. Some of my clients use marinas like Orange Beach Marina or Zeke’s for dry storage. The key is making sure your boat is protected during hurricane season and that routine maintenance is scheduled.
7. Do I need a special license or permit to operate a boat in Alabama?
Yes. Alabama requires a vessel endorsement on your driver’s license, which involves taking a test. If you're moving here from out of state, make sure your boating certification transfers, or plan to take the course locally. It's easy, and there are online options as well.
8. What’s the fishing like year-round in Orange Beach?
We’re lucky to have excellent fishing all year long. Redfish and speckled trout are staples in the bay. In the summer, locals target snapper, king mackerel, mahi-mahi, and tuna offshore. If you’re a first-time boat owner, hiring a local charter captain for a day or two is a great way to learn our waters.
9. How do I make sure the boat I’m buying is right for my property?
Before you buy, measure your dock width, canal depth, lift capacity, and overhead clearance (some canals have low bridges). I always advise boat buyers to consider their home’s boating access first—then find the vessel that fits. I can help with both.
10. Where are the best boating destinations around Orange Beach?
You’ve got options! Robinson Island, Bird Island, and Walker Island are all local hangout spots. Perdido Pass leads you straight into the Gulf. Florabama Yacht Club, Tacky Jack’s, and The Wharf are perfect waterfront stops for dining. It’s no exaggeration—you can spend every weekend discovering something new on the water.
BONUS: Boat Buyer Checklist for Orange Beach & Ono Island
Here’s a helpful guide I share with buyers when they’re considering purchasing a boat to pair with their waterfront property:
Boat Selection
- Do I plan to fish inshore, offshore, or both?
- Will I be cruising with family and friends often?
- How many passengers do I need to accommodate?
- What size boat fits my lifestyle and my dock?
- Will I be trailering the boat or keeping it on a lift?
Condition & Inspection
- New or used?
- Have I scheduled a marine survey for used boats?
- Does it come with maintenance records or warranties?
- Is the engine from a reputable manufacturer (Yamaha, Mercury, Suzuki)?
- Are the electronics and navigation systems updated?
Property Compatibility
- What’s the depth behind my home or at the slip?
- Is there a boat lift, or do I need to install one?
- Does the dock have power, water, and lighting?
- Is there room for additional marine equipment (kayaks, jet skis, etc.)?
Ownership & Maintenance
- Do I have storage or a marina plan for hurricanes?
- Who will perform regular maintenance and detailing?
- Am I insured with a marine-specialized policy?
- Do I have a float plan and safety equipment onboard?
Top Marina Recommendations in Orange Beach
If you don’t plan to dock your boat behind your home, here are some of the most respected marinas in Orange Beach that offer dry storage, wet slips, fuel, service, and more:
1. Orange Beach Marina
Terry Cove | orangebeachmarina.com
- Full-service marina with dry stack storage, fuel dock, and marine repairs
- Great for sportfishing vessels and luxury cruisers
- Minutes to Perdido Pass
2. Zeke’s Marina
Canal Road | zekeslanding.com
- Large wet slips and boat rentals
- Known for hosting charter boats and tournaments
- Home to restaurants and tackle shops
3. Bear Point Harbor Marina
Bear Point | bearpointharbor.com
- Local favorite with a laid-back atmosphere
- Dry storage and quick access to Bayou St. John and the ICW
- Walking distance to OSO restaurant and the Bear Point boat launch
4. The Wharf Marina
The Wharf | alwharf.com/marina
- Upscale marina experience with shopping, dining, and entertainment nearby
- Deep water access and transient slips available
- Perfect for seasonal or overnight stays
5. Sportsman Marina
Marina Road | sportsmanmarina.com
- Large full-service marina with fuel dock, ship store, and repair services
- Great for center consoles and larger vessels
- Onsite yacht club and restaurant
Let’s Find the Right Waterfront Property for You and Your Boat
If you’re thinking of buying a boat and a home on Ono Island or anywhere in Orange Beach, let’s connect. I’m happy to help you navigate dock depth, boat lifts, and marine service options to find the right home—and the right boat—for your lifestyle.
Thinking About Buying a Boat AND a Waterfront Home?
Let me help you find the perfect combination. I specialize in boater-friendly homes on Ono Island, Terry Cove, and throughout Orange Beach, and I can guide you through both the real estate and marine lifestyle considerations.
Search Boater-Friendly Homes Now
meredith@searchthegulf.com
(970) 389.2905
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