Boating season has hit full throttle in Sacramento, yet nearly a quarter of the slips at the city's public marina sit empty. That's unusual for the 475-slip Sacramento Marina, which boasted a waiting list of 300 just three years ago. The problem may be about to get worse after rate increases took effect at the marina Thursday. Slip occupancy levels change throughout the year, with the highest levels during boating season from Memorial Day to Labor Day. In fiscal year 2010/2011, the marina — the largest in the city — is expected to see an average annual occupancy rate of no more than 65 percent. The down economy is largely to blame, with an unfortunately timed renovation playing a role in

A colorful line-up of boats decorated with multi-colored lights toured the Sacramento River, starting from Sacramento Marina,  past Old Sacramento, all the way to the Virgin Sturgeon and back.   SacPress Photos | Kati Garner