Launch A Rental Boat, While on Vacation

Tips for Renting A Boat with content from our friends at Freedom Boat Club

For most boaters, it wouldn’t be a true vacation without spending some time on the water. But what if you don’t own a boat or can’t take your own on vacation? You could go on a charter boat, but many families like the freedom to decide their own itinerary on the water. Fortunately, taking the helm of a rental boat or being part of a boat club is an easy and often an affordable option for you and your family.

If you make the decision to rent a boat while on vacation, here are some helpful tips to make it a successful day on the water.

Start with Research

While planning your vacation, do some online research for what rental boat options are available in the areas where you are vacationing. It’s also a good idea to check the boating regulations where you are going. Some states require you to take an online class and pass a test before you can rent a boat. And don’t forget to research the local waterways so you’re familiar with changing tides or other precautions you may need to take.

Boat Rental Types and Price Estimates

Pricing of a rental boat depends a lot on what type of boat you choose and how competitive the boat rental market is.

Pontoon boats are popular rentals because they are roomy, easy to drive, stable and allow for a wide range of activities. Costs for a 20–24-foot pontoon boat ranges from $220-$400 for a half-day to $300-$700 for a full day rental.

If you are headed to an area with tides and potential rough water, center console boats or runabouts are great choices for inshore and/or offshore boating. Rental prices can range from $300 for a half-day to more than $1,000 for a full day rental.

If there are certain activities you enjoy on the water, choosing the right boat is a must. If water skiing or wakeboarding is your hobby, a ski boat rental may be available to you. If you and your family want to fish, check to see if fishing-compatible rentals are available.

The Benefits of a Boat Club

If you travel or vacation a lot, a boat club could be a perfect solution to your away-from-home boating desires.

There are many benefits to boat clubs, which offer a fleet of boats in various sizes and styles. And, depending on the club, they may be located across multiple states. Larger boat clubs like Freedom Boat Club have more than 285 locations around the world and also take care of all maintenance and storage fees as well as provide hands-on boat operation training to all club members.

Help is Always Available

As a Sea Tow member, you are covered on any boat you rent, wherever you plan to go. If you have additional questions about boat rentals , don’t forget to reach out to the local Sea Tow captain in the area where you’ll be vacationing. You can find the local captain via Sea Tow’s website, and you can even connect with their social media account to get up to date information such as local boat traffic, weather, tides and much more.

Final Thoughts

Renting a boat while on vacation can be an easy solution that prevents you from having to tow your boat over long distances, find trailer parking, fuel, etc. But remember, having the right boat to fit your needs is a must. Also, remember to designate a Sober Skipper so you and the rest of the passengers aboard can boat safely. With enough research, you’ll be at the helm of a rental boat and enjoying your vacation in no time!

If you found this article helpful or entertaining, please consider a donation to the Sea Tow Foundation today to help us continue our efforts to educate boaters and keep them safe on the water. You can donate securely online at www.boatingsafety.com/donatetoday or by clicking on the DONATE tab at the top of the page.