Digital check in and check out

4 Tips for Completing the Check-In Check-Out Process with Your Boat Renters

Written by Boatsetter Team
January 19, 2023

Last Updated on February 14, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

If you’re a Florida boat owner (or rental operator), you may have heard about the latest boating law: the Boating Safety Act of 2022 (SB606). If you haven’t, take a few minutes to brush up on SB 606 before you continue reading. 

This post will go over the pre-rental safety and operational instruction requirement and elaborate a bit on our Check-In Check-Out that’ll help Florida Owners adapt to the new law. 

In this post, we’ll cover: 

  • Completing the Check-In Check-Out forms together 
  • A reminder to take photos!
  • Coordinating Check-In with the renter 
  • How to answer all your renter’s questions

List. Rent. Earn — Only at Boatsetter 

Completing the rental Check-In Check-Out forms together

Well start with the most obvious tip- you must make sure Check-In Check-Out forms are completed. 

Insurance is only liable for claims submitted with completed forms. It might be tempting for both of you to gloss over this, and just get it done but it’s important to take your time here in the case that a boating incident arises. We want you to be prepared, that said we strongly recommend you: 

  • Briefly explain to them what the process is
  • Briefly explain why it needs to be completed 
  • Let them know you’ll complete the forms together

The best way to be on top of this is by completing Check-In Check-Out together. After all, in the off-chance, a boating accident occurs these documents may be your saving grace. 

Pro Tip: For bookings insured under the GEICO/BoatUS peer-to-peer boat rental policy, it is also required that the boat be inspected before and after booking.

Don’t forget to take photos!

Pictures are crucial to ANY insurance claim. That said, take your time and take pictures as needed— before AND after. 

Don’t blow past the Check In Check Out; odds are the renter will return, and all will be okay with your boat. In any other case, you’ll be more than happy you have pictures. 

Coordinating Check-In with the renter

The window for Check-In opens an hour before the trip and will remain open til halfway through the allotted time (for late arrivals). One way to cater to a memorable experience is by informing your renter. 

Ask your renter, via Boatsetter’s messenger, to arrive at least 30 minutes before the trip begins. If they ask why, explain to them Check-In is a requirement by Fl law but you don’t want it to take away from their precious time on the water.   

How to answer all your renter’s questions

You’re the expert on the boat and the waterways of your area. If you’re onboarding a first-time boater (even tenth-time boaters) it couldn’t hurt to ask them if they have any questions. Here’s a quick Double-Check List: (Ask renters if they have questions about each topic below) 

  • Navigational aids 
  • BUIs 
  • Boat machinery 
  • Storages 

Not only will they definitely rave about your boat hosting to friends and family, but also you can send them off with a greater peace of mind that they know what they’re doing. It may seem a bit precautious but may be crucial to go over the Emergency procedures one more time. 

Want more? Here are 3 Boat Hosting Tips that’ll change your game.

Quick FAQs: the Boating Safety Act of 2022 (SB 606)

What is the Boating Safety Act of 2022?

The Boating Safety Act of 2022, was first introduced in November 2021 and signed into law in June 2022, in hopes of improving safety 

Who does this law affect?

Florida boat operators and renters in the state; or boats without assigned captains.  

Who is Buoy?

Buoy is one of our new partners! They are a boat insurance provider offering our Owners and Renters SB 606-compliant (usage-based) coverage. 

Are Buoy and GEICO BoatUS the same?

No, while they both provide boat insurance plans, Buoy is an independent insurance provider from the GEICO/BoatUS. 

Where can I learn more about the Boating Safety Act of 2022 (SB 606)?

You can visit our informative page, or visit the government website.


About Boatsetter

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