Rex Valet Rack Storage Update for Outboard Powered Boats

Dear Valet Rack Service (VRS) boaters,

While we have always had outboard-powered boats in our VRS system, I’d like to address a recent

development: the trend of outboard cowl/engine cover paint becoming ever more prone to chafing and other cosmetic issues.

To allow room for our VRS boaters to stay in water overnight, such as an end-of day launch to allow early boat use, and to leave enough dock space when you return after lift operating hours, most VRS boats must tie-up ‘Stern-to’ our docks. While our docks have rubber dock guard, most of the newer outboard cowls have glossy, delicate and painted finishes, which may look nice - but are likely compromised by stern-to docking.

Converting to parallel docking-only is not a practical option, as the reduced in-the-water space would greatly inconvenience the majority of VRS boaters who prefer their boat launched prior to their arrival, and who for various reasons prefer or must leave their boats in the water overnight. Stern-to docking greatly increases inwater docking capacity, enhancing your boating convenience.

Options for outboard owners wishing to minimize cosmetic effects on their engine cowls:

1. Be present for launch and drive boat away from lift area, and have us haul immediately, upon your return after boating for the day. This will be the only option at peak times if you do not want your boat tied up stern-to.

2. We will offer one-time, free of charge, a cushion for each engine and attaching cord to any VRS

customer, owner can pick up in the store and install. Note that while this is much better than having

no cowl protection, there may well be some type of mark/chafing on cowl. Boat owner shall remove cowl protection once underway and install upon return from boating. Simply email denise@rexmarine.com and she will expedite your request.

3. If you prefer a ‘over the cowl’ engine cover, we will sell you one of your choice at our cost, basic ones are less than $50, while fancy, better padded, fitted ones from engine makers as well as after market makers are available. Some boaters may find this type more certain to stay in place, and simpler to put in place prior to docking. Please note, while it is better than having no cowl protection, the cover may also potentially cause cowl paint chafing.

4. During weekdays and slower periods, parallel docking may be possible, but we have very limited ability to leave boats under 26’ boats parallel during high usage days, and we will re-position boat stern-to as needed to make space for everyone boating that day.

Please contact us with questions or comments, and have a great season Boating on the Sound.

Yours truly, Bill Gardella, GM bill@rexmarine.com