4 Common Boat Renter Mistakes to Avoid
If you’ve never been boating, or have little experience, renting a boat is always an option. Renting a boat is a great choice for a variety of reasons.
Why Rent a Boat?
• The ability to try different types of boats and activities
• Don’t know if you and your family will enjoy boating
• Limited free time to justify owning a boat
• Hassle free and no worries about maintenance, insurance, storage fees and other costs
• The ability to go boating in new destinations
Most Common Boat Renter Mistakes to Avoid
Before you grab the sunscreen and head out to the nearest marina, read through our list of some of the most common mistakes that first time boat renters make.
Not choosing the right type of boat
Yes, that sleek power boat with twin turbo motors might look fast and furious, but it might not be the best idea for a day of snorkeling, swimming and sightseeing. Likewise, don’t rent a sailboat if you want to get somewhere fast. A pontoon boat is great for swimming, snorkeling and leisurely cruising, but it is not the best choice for waterskiing, wakeboarding and tubing. A bass boat makes an excellent fishing boat, but it is a poor choice if you have a group of people or want to lounge in the sun. Do you see what we’re getting at with this? There are so many different types of boats, along with vastly different types of activities, that it is imperative that you match the boat to the activity as well as your level of experience.
Not making sure that the boat is insured
Even if you don’t own the boat, it still needs to have insurance. Be familiar with boat insurance before renting a boat. You don’t want to be held responsible for accidental damages or accidents caused by other people.
Not knowing how to operate the boat
This one may seem like a no-brainer. Unfortunately, many folks think that boats are easy to operate. The truth is, while they’re not overly hard to operate, they are quite different than cars. Wind, water currents, the tide and changing weather conditions all affect the way the boat handles. It’s really best to take a basic boating education and safety class before renting a boat. Many states now require all boaters to obtain a boating license. Of course, you can always hire a captain if you don’t feel comfortable operating the boat on your own.
Not checking for damage before renting
Before you start the engine and sail out for a day of fun on the water, be sure to check that the boat is in good running condition. Always do a quick inspection that includes checking for cracks in the fiberglass, starting the engine, making sure the electronic equipment is working and looking for any other signs of damage. Make note of any existing damages so that you are not held responsible. The same procedure should be done at the end of the rental to confirm that the boat is in the same condition it was received in.
Boat sharing with leading companies such as Boatsetter is a great way to experience a private boating adventure without owning a boat. Captains can be included so the truly novice boater can go boating anywhere and for those with boating knowledge, a captain is not required. Boats of all size and styles are available for rent in destinations world wide. Boating is now as easy as hotel or airline ticket. Just choose the dates, choose the location, choose the boat and grab your sunscreen! It’s time to go boating.
Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent a boat, list your boat, or become a Boatsetter captain today.
