Choosing the Right Dock for Your South Florida Waterfront Property

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Apr 26, 2025
3 min read

If you’re planning a new dock for your waterfront property, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to build a fixed dock or a floating dock. Both options offer benefits—but the right choice depends on a variety of factors, from water conditions to lifestyle preferences.

At Atlantic Harbor Marine Construction, we specialize in custom dock solutions designed to match your environment, boat size, and intended use. Let’s break down the most important factors to consider when choosing between fixed and floating docks.

Water Depth and Tidal Range

Fixed docks are supported by pilings and remain at a constant height above the water.
Floating docks rise and fall with the tide, maintaining a consistent height relative to the water level.

If your site has significant tidal fluctuations, a floating dock may offer easier boat access If your site has stable water levels or deep water close to shore, a fixed dock may be more practical.

Wave and Wake Exposure

Floating docks are more susceptible to movement from waves and boat wakes.
Fixed docks offer greater stability in choppy or high-traffic waterways like the Intracoastal Waterway.

If your property faces heavy boat traffic or open water, a fixed dock provides better durability and stability. In calm, protected areas, floating docks work well and offer flexibility.

Intended Use and Vessel Size

Fixed docks are ideal for boat lifts, larger vessels, or integrated features like fish cleaning stations, power pedestals, and built-in seating.
Floating docks offer easy boarding for kayaks, jet skis, paddleboards, or small boats.

If you own a large vessel or need lift support, choose a fixed dock. If you’re focused on recreational activities or smaller watercraft, floating may be a better fit.

Maintenance and Longevity

Fixed docks, when built with high-quality materials like composite decking and marine-grade pilings, offer long-term durability and require minimal repositioning.
Floating docks typically require more inspection and hardware adjustments due to water movement and weather exposure.

For a long-term, low-maintenance solution, fixed docks are preferred in many South Florida installations. Floating docks are easier to install and relocate but may require more frequent upkeep.

Construction Costs

Floating docks may offer lower initial installation costs, especially in deep or fluctuating water conditions.
Fixed docks may require more materials and engineering but often offer higher resale value and long-term performance.

Your budget and site conditions will ultimately guide the most cost-effective choice. Atlantic Harbor Marine Construction will evaluate both options and provide transparent pricing for each.

Aesthetic Preferences

Both dock types can be designed to look beautiful and blend into your landscape, but:

Fixed docks have a more permanent, structured appearance.
Floating docks tend to look more modern and minimalistic.

Choose a dock style that aligns with your property’s architecture and visual goals.

Trust South Florida’s Marine Construction Experts

At Atlantic Harbor Marine Construction, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. We evaluate every property’s water conditions, tidal range, soil stability, intended use, and lifestyle preferences to recommend the dock system that works best for you.

Whether you need a fixed dock for your sportfishing boat or a floating dock for your weekend paddleboards, we’ll design and build a structure that’s safe, beautiful, and built to last in Florida’s marine environment.