The True Cost of Building a Dock, Boat Lift & Seawall: What to Budget For

Owning a waterfront property in South Florida comes with incredible benefits—but it also requires smart planning when it comes to building and maintaining your marine structures. Whether you’re considering a new dock, boat lift, or seawall, understanding the true costs involved is essential for making an informed investment.

At Atlantic Harbor Marine Construction, we help homeowners budget realistically so their projects meet both their needs and long-term expectations. Here’s a breakdown of what you should expect to budget for.

Factors That Affect Cost

No two projects are the same. The final price of your dock, boat lift, or seawall will depend on:

• Size & Design: Larger or more customized builds require more materials and labor.

• Materials: Choices like composite decking vs. treated wood, or concrete vs. vinyl seawalls, affect longevity and cost.

• Waterfront Conditions: Depth, tidal range, soil type, and permitting can influence construction complexity.

• Permitting & Regulations: Broward County and state agencies require permits, which add both time and expense.

• Accessibility: If heavy equipment or barges are needed, labor and transport costs increase.

Cost of Building a Dock

• Basic Wooden Dock: Starting around $150–$250 per square foot.

• Composite Docking Materials: $250–$350+ per square foot, but longer lifespan and lower maintenance.

• Customization (lighting, railings, boat slips): Adds significantly to cost.

Budget Tip: While wood docks are cheaper upfront, composite materials often save money over time due to reduced maintenance and longer durability.

Cost of Installing a Boat Lift

Boat lifts vary greatly depending on boat size and lift type:

• Personal Watercraft (PWC) Lifts: $3,000–$6,000.

• Standard Boat Lifts (up to 20,000 lbs.): $10,000–$25,000 installed.

• Large Yacht or Custom Lifts: $30,000+ depending on capacity and features.

Budget Tip: Consider both lift capacity and long-term use. Installing a lift that matches your future boat upgrade plans can save money down the line.

Cost of Building a Seawall

Seawalls are critical for protecting property from erosion and storm surge, and costs vary depending on material:

• Vinyl Seawalls: $400–$600 per linear foot (durable, lower maintenance).

• Concrete Seawalls: $450–$700 per linear foot (stronger, heavy-duty protection).

• Steel Seawalls: $500–$800 per linear foot (rare in residential projects, more common in commercial).

Budget Tip: Regular inspections and maintenance extend seawall life, helping you avoid costly full replacements.

Additional Costs to Plan For

• Permitting & Engineering: $2,000–$7,500+ depending on project complexity.

• Demolition & Removal of Old Structures: $1,000–$5,000+.

• Upgrades: Lighting, power pedestals, water hookups, and fenders add to overall expense.

• Hurricane-Resilient Features: Stronger pilings, storm-rated boat lifts, or floating dock designs are worth the upfront investment in South Florida.

Why Professional Installation Pays Off

Cutting corners on marine construction can lead to structural failure, fines, and costly repairs. By working with experienced contractors who understand Broward County permitting, soil conditions, and storm resilience, you ensure your investment is built to last.

Building a dock, boat lift, or seawall is one of the most valuable upgrades you can make to a waterfront property. By understanding the full costs—including permitting, materials, and long-term maintenance—you can plan ahead and avoid surprises.

Ready to budget for your waterfront project? Call Atlantic Harbor Marine Construction at 954-564-3715 or visit www.AtlanticHarborMC.com to request a personalized consultation and estimate.