When a Dream Becomes a Burden: My Boat Removal Story

I bought my boat five years ago. It wasn’t a luxury or a whim - it was a way to escape the noise, to be alone with the water and my thoughts. For a few seasons, it brought me real joy. My friends and I would head out into the bay, go fishing, have picnics. But over time, the boat started needing more and more attention - repairs, cracks in the hull, rising dock fees.

At first, I kept hoping I could restore it. I bought parts, tried fixing the electrical system, even signed up for an online course on boat engine repair. But every time I drove out to the marina, I felt drained instead of excited. I’d come home thinking, “Maybe it’s time to let go.”

Then the pandemic hit - and boating was the last thing on my mind. I stopped taking care of it. Eventually, I stopped visiting the dock at all. Two years passed. Mold covered the deck, rats made their way into the cabin, the paint peeled, the seats cracked, and someone even dumped trash bags on the stern. I knew it wasn’t coming back to life, but I couldn’t bring myself to say goodbye. Too many memories.

Neighbors at the marina started complaining. One even said the boat was becoming dangerous. That’s when I realized - it was time. But as I started researching how to dispose of a boat, I fell into a rabbit hole of permits, environmental guidelines, and potential fines. Turns out, you can’t just tow away an abandoned boat in Seattle. You need paperwork, port approval, and sometimes even environmental inspections.

I called several boat removal companies in Seattle, WA, but most quotes were outrageous, or they couldn’t give me a clear timeline. One guy actually suggested I tow it myself to a disposal site. Alone. A rotting, barely-floating boat. It sounded insane.

Eventually, I found U.S. Boat Removal. They didn’t promise miracles, but they talked to me like a real person. They came out, assessed the boat, and gave me a fair, straightforward plan. They handled the documents, coordinated the timing, and explained everything. A couple of days later, the boat was gone. No fuss, no drama.

Honestly? It was hard. I stood there watching the truck haul away a piece of my life. But then… relief. Like I had finally drawn a line under something that had been weighing me down. It wasn’t just unwanted boat removal - it was closure. You know that feeling when you finally stop dragging something behind you? That’s what it felt like. Freedom.

Now when I visit the marina, it feels different. There’s a sense of space. Of quiet. I still walk past the spot where the boat once sat, and sometimes I catch myself picturing it there. But I don’t feel sadness anymore. I feel peace.

I still think maybe someday I’ll own another boat. But only when I’m ready to write a new story. For now, I’m just grateful to the people who helped me close the old one. And if you’re going through something similar - know this: you’re not alone. Sometimes, letting go is the first step toward moving forward.

FAQs: Boat Removal in Seattle, WA

Q: Can I legally abandon my boat if I don’t want it anymore?

A: No. In Washington State, abandoning a boat is illegal and can result in hefty fines. You must go through the proper channels to dispose of or remove your vessel, including notifying authorities and possibly obtaining permits.

Q: How much does it cost to remove a boat in Seattle?

A: It depends on the size, location, and condition of your boat. Prices typically range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Boats that are sinking, heavily damaged, or located in difficult spots may cost more.

Q: Who handles the paperwork for boat removal?

A: Reputable boat removal companies like U.S. Boat Removal usually assist with or handle all the required documentation, including disposal permits and environmental compliance forms.

Q: Can I tow and dispose of the boat myself?

A: Technically yes, but it’s risky. You’ll need the right equipment, proper disposal site information, and may need to pass inspections. Most experts recommend using a licensed removal service for safety and legal reasons.

Q: What happens to my boat after it’s removed?

A: Depending on the boat’s condition, it may be salvaged for parts, recycled, or scrapped at a certified facility. Responsible removal companies prioritize environmentally safe disposal methods.

Q: How long does the removal process take?

A: It can vary. Once paperwork is sorted and a plan is in place, the actual removal usually happens within a few days. Delays can occur due to marina access, scheduling, or inspections.

Q: What should I do before the removal team arrives?

A: Clear out any personal belongings, disconnect batteries if possible, and notify the marina if required. The removal team will guide you on what needs to be done in advance.