Traditionally, if you wanted to enjoy time on a boat, you had to buy one. And though boat ownership can be a real pleasure, it also comes with a certain amount of responsibilities. You have to assume all the costs, including depreciation and maintenance, an option that doesn’t appeal to everyone. Plus, some people like to change things up and navigate different bodies of water—in different corners of the world—throughout the year. The good news is that there are solutions for everyone.
Boat rentals have become more sophisticated over the years. There are now several rental clubs, such as Gulfstreamboatclub.com and Carefreeboats.com. Like many others, they rent boats by the hour, but they also have special programs for members. Once you sign up, you get access to a wide range of boats all over North America. This means that you can use different types of vessels for different occasions. Plus, you can explore a variety of bodies of water, and all at a lower cost.
For example, at Gulfstream Boat Club, a 20-hour rental package for a selection of 20 boats ranging from 21 to 35 feet costs $1,300. You have two years to use up all the hours at any of the various destinations. Of course, there are several other packages available, including some for unlimited use. The only extra cost is fuel. Larger models are also available, but they need to be operated by a captain.
If you dream of taking a sailboat or a power catamaran through the tropical British Virgin Islands, consider the ownership programs offered by The Moorings or MarineMax Vacations. These deals allow you to buy a new boat, but then the company helps offset the purchase price by renting it out when you’re not using it. Rental incomes then translate into monthly earnings for you. What is more, the companies take care of boat maintenance and all related costs, thereby saving you a lot of effort. You get priority access to your boat, but you can also choose to use a rental boat from one of the other locations. It’s a smart way to turn your purchase into a profit.
In conclusion, today’s boater has several options for enjoying time out on the water. It’s just a matter of choosing the one that suits you best. Why not consider trying a few?