Marina technology is evolving fast, from wifi systems all the way to access controls.
Access controls, however, are an interesting trend for the industry. By implementing them in a marina, staff productivity can increase, docks can become safer, and boaters can be more satisfied.
Due to them offering such benefits, we decided to have a deeper look at the statistics and trends changing the industry as we know it.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, the US saw 4,461 watercraft thefts in 2022 alone.
Marina access controls, however, are here to lower this statistic. These can help prevent unauthorized access, keeping boats more secure at marinas.
For example, keypad or badge-controlled dock gates. These ensure that only those with the right RFIDs or credentials can access the dock area.
Back in 2024, NATO reported that at least 45 maritime organizations suffered ransomware attacks. This is an increase over previous years, showcasing the increase in cyber threats to port and marina infrastructure.
With access controls, you’re able to assign authorization in both the physical and digital world. This helps reduce the possibilities of cyber attacks or ransomware pressure, ensuring only those who are trusted can enter certain areas of the dock or digital files.
Physical badges used to be the go-to for access control. With them, you can swipe a keypad (or something similar) to get access to somewhere.
Though great, these can get stolen and easily duplicated. That’s why nearly 40% of companies (not just in the marine world) are switching from access control badges to mobile credentials.
It makes sense, also. Most smartphones are equipped with world-class security, biometrics, passwords, and more, making them ideal access points.
Biometric locks that include fingerprints, facial recognition, iris scanners, etc., are also gaining traction at marinas.
In a recent survey, 35% of organizations said they already use biometric access. 13% say that they plan on using it.
Because of this, we imagine marinas will start using biometrics to protect access. It’s a much safer alternative to RFID cards or badges.
In a marina, you can have many facilities. You can have the docks and outbuildings, restrooms, offices, and maybe even entertainment areas.
When everybody goes home at the end of the day, someone has to lock up. Manually doing this takes time, or, worse, someone may forget to lock something.
Now, many businesses are going towards wireless or smart locks. These locks automatically close on command or at a certain time, improving workplace efficiency and safety.
Analysts forecast that in 2025, over half of IT spending will be cloud-based, so we see cloud-managed access controls increasing.
This is especially for marinas with multiple sites. With cloud-managed access control, you can see the credentials and live logs of every single dock, regardless of your location.
With it, you’ll be able to grant or block access as well, so you’re able to respond to concerns or support requests without being at the physical location.
Marina access controls are no longer “nice-to-have”; they’re becoming an important part of running docks.
They are helping reduce property theft, defend against cyber attacks, and offer a more seamless experience not only for guests, but for staff.
If you want to start introducing marina access controls, contact our professionals at Beacon today. We’ll be more than happy to tighten your security.