Marinas
713930
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SBA Loans for Marinas: Financing Growth in Boating and Waterfront Services
Introduction
Marinas provide docking, storage, and related services for recreational and commercial boaters. Classified under NAICS 713930 – Marinas, this industry includes businesses that operate docking slips, boat storage facilities, fueling stations, repair shops, and waterfront amenities. While boating remains popular and demand for marina services is steady, marina operators face financial challenges such as high facility costs, seasonal demand, environmental regulations, and infrastructure maintenance.
This is where SBA Loans for Marinas can provide critical support. Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA loans offer longer repayment terms, lower down payments, and government-backed guarantees. These loans help marina owners expand docks, purchase equipment, upgrade facilities, and stabilize cash flow while meeting regulatory requirements and customer expectations.
In this article, we’ll explore NAICS 713930, the financial challenges marina operators face, how SBA loans provide solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions from waterfront business owners.
Industry Overview: NAICS 713930
Marinas (NAICS 713930) include businesses that provide:
- Docking and mooring slips for recreational and commercial vessels
- Indoor and outdoor boat storage facilities
- Fueling stations and convenience services
- Boat maintenance and repair shops
- Clubhouses, restaurants, and waterfront amenities
This industry is capital-intensive and requires significant investment in infrastructure, environmental safety, and customer amenities.
Common Pain Points in Marina Financing
From Reddit’s r/smallbusiness, r/boating, and Quora discussions, marina operators often highlight these challenges:
- High Infrastructure Costs – Docks, lifts, fueling systems, and storage facilities require large investments.
- Seasonal Demand – Revenue peaks in summer and boating season, with lower activity in winter months.
- Environmental Regulations – Compliance with water safety, waste disposal, and fuel storage adds ongoing costs.
- Cash Flow Gaps – Annual or seasonal slip rentals may not align with ongoing payroll and maintenance expenses.
- Competition – Marinas near popular waterways face price competition and must invest in customer amenities.
How SBA Loans Help Marina Businesses
SBA financing provides affordable, flexible capital that helps marina owners stabilize operations, modernize facilities, and expand services.
SBA 7(a) Loan
- Best for: Working capital, payroll, insurance, or refinancing debt
- Loan size: Up to $5 million
- Why it helps: Provides liquidity for staff wages, utilities, and seasonal marketing
SBA 504 Loan
- Best for: Large infrastructure projects, marina expansions, and long-term assets
- Loan size: Up to $5.5 million
- Why it helps: Ideal for building new docks, upgrading storage facilities, or investing in fueling systems
SBA Microloans
- Best for: Small or startup marina operators
- Loan size: Up to $50,000
- Why it helps: Useful for tools, safety gear, or initial operating expenses
SBA Disaster Loans
- Best for: Marinas impacted by hurricanes, floods, or other natural disasters
- Loan size: Up to $2 million
- Why it helps: Provides recovery funds for damaged docks, lost revenue, or rebuilding facilities
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an SBA Loan
- Check Eligibility – Must be a U.S.-based, for-profit marina with good personal credit (typically 650+)
- Prepare Financial Documents – Include tax returns, P&L statements, slip rental agreements, and facility plans
- Find an SBA-Approved Lender – Some lenders specialize in hospitality and recreational financing
- Submit Application – Provide a business plan highlighting location, demand, and expansion strategies
- Underwriting & Approval – SBA guarantees reduce lender risk. Approval generally takes 30–90 days
FAQ: SBA Loans for Marinas
Why do banks often deny loans to marina operators?
Banks may view marinas as risky due to seasonal revenue, high infrastructure costs, and environmental liabilities. SBA guarantees reduce this risk and improve approval chances.
Can SBA loans finance docks, lifts, and fueling stations?
Yes. SBA 7(a) and 504 loans can fund infrastructure upgrades, marina expansions, and fueling system installations.
What down payment is required?
SBA loans typically require 10–20% down, compared to 25–30% with conventional loans.
Are startup marinas eligible?
Yes. Entrepreneurs with waterfront property, permits, and a solid business plan may qualify for SBA microloans or 7(a) financing.
What repayment terms are available?
- Working capital: Up to 7 years
- Equipment/facilities: Up to 10 years
- Real estate/marina properties: Up to 25 years
Can SBA loans support marketing and customer amenities?
Absolutely. Many marinas use SBA financing to add restaurants, clubhouses, and recreational facilities that attract and retain boaters.
Final Thoughts
The Marinas industry is central to boating, tourism, and recreation but faces financial hurdles tied to infrastructure, seasonality, and regulations. SBA Loans for Marina Businesses provide affordable, flexible financing to stabilize cash flow, expand facilities, and improve customer experiences.
Whether you operate a small family-run marina or a large waterfront facility, SBA financing can provide the resources you need. Connect with an SBA-approved lender today and explore your funding options under NAICS 713930.
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#Preferred Lenders Program
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#Existing or more than 2 years old
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#Change of Ownership
#New Business or 2 years or less
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#Variable Rates
#Fixed Rates
#Asset Base Working Capital Line (CAPLine)
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#Seasonal Line of Credit (CAPLine)
#Builders Line of Credit (CAPLine)