Tom,
I looked at Dagmars last summer before deciding on Edmonds dry storage. Since I only toured Dagmars, I have limited knowledge of their operations. Here are some of the pros and cons for each (in random order):
- Dagmars was a little cheaper, about $175 vs $195 at Edmonds for my boat.
- Most of the boats at Dagmars are stored on blocks in an area of grass, dirt, gravel. Forklifts are used to move the boats. Reasonable rates to store a trailer. A small area of covered racks is there. Availability and higher prices are issues here.
- Each spot at Dagmars has water and power available; Edmonds has this only on the wash down racks, not the storage racks.
- Don't know if Dagmars has any theft problems; however it would be next to impossible to steal something out of my boat on the high rack at Edmonds.
- Both locations are pretty central in Puget Sound and give good access.
- Dagmars is located on the river and boats travel thru brackish water up to the marina. This partially cleans the salt from the boat.
- Edmonds is very clean and well kept. The staff is very helpful, bathrooms are spotless, docks are great, and well protected from weather. Gas, pumpout right there. I don't think Dagmars has pumpout facilities; you have to use the Everett Marina. Also, I would imagine that things could get pretty muddy in the winter at Dagmars.
- Edmonds has excellent restuarants a few steps away. Dagamars does not.
- There is opportuntity for overnighting at the dock at either location. I do suspect that Edmonds is more protected from weather though.
- It's harder to get a space at Edmonds. There are usually openings through the winter into spring. By April/May your probably out of luck. Dagmars is easy. I had to book a spot at Edmonds two months before my boat was ready to be safe.
- Dagmars requires a 6 month lease. One month at Edmonds.
- At Edmonds you call ahead and your boat is on the water when you get there. If your before or after hours, they handle that also.
- TRAFFIC! This is one thing I didn't really consider beforehand however it is huge! We can buzz back and forth from Redmond to Edmonds without ever being in heavy traffic no matter the time of day. Just try going from Everett to Seattle on any afternoon/evening and you'll understand.
Well that all I can think of for now. Obviously the hands down choice for us was Edmonds. If I lived north of Everett, my choice would be different but I would bet money I wouldn't like Dagmars as much as Edmonds.
Tom, we still want to get out with you guys. I'll send you a PM soon.