Boat storage
We offer two locations for boat storage in Exeter:
- In-water boat storage at Turf Boat Haven
- Dry or in-water at Exeter's Historic Quayside in the heart of the City
Please note that we currently have great deals on 2026/2027 boat storage.
Afloat at Turf Boat Haven
An unrivalled, peaceful, waterside setting with pontoon berths set in a Site of Special Scientific Interest, only 5.5 miles from Exeter City Centre. Linked with the Exe Estuary Trail and South West Coastal Path, Turf Boat Haven (Post code: EX6 8EE or What3words) is the entrance to the historic Exeter Ship Canal which is approached via the Exe Estuary.
- Great deals on winter pontoon berths.
- Complete protection from tidal conditions.
- On site toilet, electricity and fresh water.
- Regular pontoon and quayside checks by friendly staff.
- 24 hour access.
- Approved sub-contractors welcome.
Please note that there is no car parking at Turf. This is one of the reasons it is such a delightful, quiet spot. Once you leave you boat you can check on it throughout the winter. If you visit by car you can drop passengers and items at Turf but will need to park your car at the nearest car park is 0.8 miles or a 20-minute walk, where there is limited parking available. The second car park is by the railway line at the Swans Nest, a 30-minute walk from The Turf. Both car parks are free of charge and are accessed from the A379 Dawlish Road.
If you want to cycle we are 30 minutes from the city centre most of which is along a delightful cycle path.
You can also arrive by ferry from Topsham, please note this is only an occasional weekend service in the winter period. In the summer period our Ferry runs across the river Exe, between the landing in Ferry Road at Topsham, and Topsham Lock on the western bank of the river.
Boats can either be stored on the hard or on the water for a maximum of 50 weeks in any 12 month period unless by special agreement (for example project boat work for which a higher rate is charged).
Berthing, moorings and storage both afloat and ashore are available throughout the year, however we do not offer liveaboard facilities. Visiting Boats can book short overnight or stays of up to 28 days at Turf visitor pontoon or Topsham Quay.
To get a quotation or to make a booking, please click on the Start button below.
You'll need to tell us details of your boat: Length, Beam, Draught, Weight as well as provide a photo and a copy of two utility bills showing your current address. You will also need insurance documents if you are staying longer than 28 days.
Once you've submitted the form, a member of our team will contact you with information and for payment.
If you have any questions please contact us online.
Afloat or on Hard Standing at Exeter Quay
Exeter's Historic Quayside is connected to the sea via the Exeter ship canal and Exe Estuary. Exeter’s Historic Harbour (Post code: EX2 8DU or what3words) is popular for its fascinating history, interesting architecture, historic vessels and maritime events.
- Hard standing boat storage, great winter deals at a central location.
- Free mast dropping and rising service (max weight 400kgs) at Turf on any vessel taking a full winter storage at Exeter Quay for 2025/26 season.
- Mooring alongside available year round.
- Designated craning for storage on the hard with third party provider.
- On site toilet, electricity and fresh water.
- Easy access and car parking.
- Regular pontoon and quayside checks by friendly staff
- 24 hour access.
- Approved sub-contractors welcome.
- Masons Marine Chandlery.
How do I get my boat there?
Sail/motor up the Exe Estuary and lock in at Turf Locks canal, the entrance to the Exeter Ship Canal. You then spend an enjoyable half day motoring up the canal to arrive at Exeter Quay to an allotted space.
You can transport your vessel by road to Exeter Quay but most people arrive via Turf Locks.
What to expect on the trip up the canal
The trip up the canal is done under the supportive and friendly eye of canal staff who are there to make the experience a safe and enjoyable one. It’s an interesting and beautiful trip going through an SSSI arriving at the city a few hours later. Customers often take family and friends along for the journey. There are two locks, and multiple swing bridges, the staff do all the hard work with the locks and bridges – you just need to motor through. You also travel past the Turf Locks and Double Locks pubs.
- Canal depth: 2.5 metres
- Canal max height of vessel from the waterline: 10m
On the day
We provide short briefing explaining what will happen and what order the boats will travel in. Any questions beforehand or on the day please do not hesitate to ask.
Removing masts
A derrick stands at Turf Lock at the entrance to the canal. This can take up to 400kg weight. The derrick is operated by the Canal team and booking/planning is essential. Masts can be dropped prior to travelling up the canal. Free mast dropping and rising service (max weight 400kgs) at Turf on any vessel taking a full winter storage at Exeter Quay for the 2025/2026 session. Please note that dropping and raising masts may take some time, and we often so a few back to back. Please allow time for this, with regards to the skipper positioning their vessel when their allotted spot comes.
Duration of stay
Boats can either be stored on the hard or on the water for a maximum of 50 weeks in any 12 month period unless by special agreement eg. project boat work for which a higher rate is charged.
Access is available at all times of the year with car parking close by.
Berthing, moorings and storage both afloat and ashore are available throughout the year, however we do not offer liveaboard facilities. Visiting Boats can book short overnight or stays of up to 28 days at Turf visitor pontoon or Topsham Quay.
Weed
Depending on the time of year, weed conditions vary. The harbour team are aware of it and clear it as much as possible when necessary. During convey a support vessel escorted buts to help if any issues arise.
To get a quotation and make a booking, please click on the Start button below.
You'll need to tell us details of your boat: Length, Beam, Draught, Weight as well as provide a photo and a copy of two utility bills showing your current address. You will also need insurance documents if you are staying longer than 28 days.
Once you've submitted the form, a member of our team will contact you with information and for payment.
If you have any questions please contact us online.
2026/27 winter boat storage - Five months winter storage only £90 per metre (inclusive of VAT)
For example, the cost to store a 9 metre/30 foot vessel for five months over the winter 2025/26 is listed below for all our storage options (prices inc VAT):Storage at Turf Boat Haven
Storage on the water = £810.
Storage at Exeter ‘s Historic Canal and Quay
Free mast dropping and rising service (max weight 400kgs) at Turf on any vessel taking 5 months winter storage at Exeter Quay for the 2025/2026 session.
Storage on the water = £810.
Storage on the hard = £810.
Cradle hire (for keel boats) = £260.
Convoy cranage (provided by third party) and Banksman charge = £150 per lift.
To get a quotation and make a booking, please click on the Start button below.
You'll need to tell us details of your boat: Length, Beam, Draught, Weight as well as provide a photo and a copy of two utility bills showing your current address. You will also need insurance documents if you are staying longer than 28 days.
Once you've submitted the form, a member of our team will contact you with information and for payment.
If you have any questions please contact us online.