Top Tips for a Stress-Free Boat Rental Experience This Summer
If a boating adventure has been on your list of vacation must do’s, then gathering information on how to plan a boat rental vacation in summer should be top of your list. From choosing your destination and main activities to selecting the right boat and booking it in advance, this guide provides practical tips on planning a stress-free boat rental experience this summer.
Tip #1: Choosing the Destination for your Boat Rental Vacation in Summer
Planning your boat rental vacation in summer starts with finding the best boating locations and the US is in no shortage of popular boating destinations.
Top Boating Destinations in the US
Both the east and west coasts of the US boast popular boating destinations, including New York and North Carolina on the east coast and California and Washington on the west coast. New York has Lake Champlain and Lake George while North Carolina has the Outer Banks and numerous inland rivers. California’s San Diego and Lake Tahoe provide excellent spots for either coastal or lake boating while Seattle and Olympia offer up beautiful boating in Washington.
The middle of the country can boast some fine boating destinations too, with the Great Lakes anchoring some prime areas, including Mackinac Island on Lake Huron in Michigan and Door County, Wisconsin on the shores of Lake Michigan. Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, has many places to take in fishing, swimming, and boating activities in summer, including Lake Superior and any one of those 10,000. Texas too, with its Gulf Coast cities of Galveston and Corpus Christi can offer up some fun and relaxing boating adventures.
One destination though is known as the boating capital of the US, and that is Florida. With over 1300 miles of coastline and numerous waterways, Florida has more boat owners and boat rental services than any other state in the US.
Some popular boating destinations in Florida, include Miami/Fort Lauderdale, Destin, Fort Myers, Charlotte Harbor, Tampa Bay, Key West, St. Petersburg and Jupiter/Palm Beach.
Factors to Consider when Selecting a Boating Location
All in all, when looking at boat rental destinations, you want to consider the vacation you imagine sharing with family or friends.
Some key factors to consider are:
What do you want to see and explore - Are you looking for wildlife or nightlife? Does a coastal destination appeal to you or are lakes and rivers more your style?
The activities you want to do - Are you looking to fish or sunbathe? Take in an adventure or relax on the water? Swimming, snorkeling, skiing, or something else?
Proximity to the amenities you want or need - Not everyone wants to be isolated and not everyone wants to be in the middle of the action. What is most important for you?
Tip #2: Selecting your Boat
Not all boats are built to do all things for all people. Match your boat rental up with what you want to get out of your boat rental vacation. The number of people you want the boat to accommodate factors into your choice too.
Types of Boats for Rental
Fishing boats - Usually accommodate up to six people and are intended to support fishing excursions.
Runabouts - Smaller boats that accommodate smaller groups for mostly cruising, exploring, water activities, and light fishing.
Pontoons- Larger boats that accommodate large groups. Often the most flexible for different activities.
What to Look for in a Boat Rental Service
When looking for a boat rental service, the key is always the service part. Most professional boat rental services will have approximately the same types of boats for rent and the costs within an area are going to be similar too, but the service is the thing you want to stake your vacation on. This is especially true if you are new to boating.
Research the area you plan to visit and find boat rental operations with high ratings and good reviews from customers. Look for clear pricing and an operator who keeps newer, well-maintained boats. Also, find a service that knows the area and provides start-to-finish support for your boat rental vacation.
Tip #3: Planning your Activities
Whether you are planning a boat rental vacation in summer for your family, a group of friends, or just you and your partner, you will want to find the right mix of relaxation and adventure. Choose which activities you want to do ahead of time. It helps make sure you get to do those activities and puts everyone on the same page. Prioritize those activities that are your “must do’s” and arrange rentals for any additional equipment, like fishing gear, skies, inner tubes, or snorkels, so you know you have what you need.
Popular Water Activities for Families and Groups
Some family friendly boating activities include:
Snorkeling
Swimming
Water skiing or tubing
Fishing (deep sea, river, or freshwater lake)
Collecting shells on a sandbar
Picnicking on an island
Exploring wildlife areas
Safety Tips for Water Activities
One thing that helps keep your boating vacation stress-free is knowing everyone is safe. Following a few practical safety tips can ensure both the fun and the safety.
Life jackets - Make sure everyone wears a properly sized and well-fitted life jacket. They save lives.
Extra floatation devices - Keep extra life jackets or other floatation devices handy in case a sudden rescue is necessary.
First aid kit - Always have a well-stocked first aid kit on your boat.
Sunscreen - Sun rays reflect off the water, increasing the sun’s intensity. Wear sunscreen at all times out on the water and reapply often.
Tip #4: Making your Boat Rental Vacation in Summer a Smooth Experience
Booking Your Boat in Advance
Booking a boat in advance is never a bad idea, in fact, in most popular destinations, it is imperative if you want a stress-free boat rental vacation in summer months, a peak time for vacation spots. No one wants to spend their vacation waiting in line hoping the boat they planned to rent is available. Plan ahead and book in advance.
Other Key Boat Rental Tips
Arrive Early
Get the paperwork out of the way and get on the water where you want to be.
Do a Boat Check
Make sure the boat is in top-shape and has everything you need before you set out.
Prepare for the Weather
Pack extra clothing, boat-friendly footwear, swimwear, and rain gear. You don’t want to be caught out on the water unprepared.
Stick to a Plan
Know where you plan to go and communicate that plan with someone on shore, like your boat rental service. On the water keep track of the time and return when you planned on it.
Local Boating Regulations
Research the local boat regulations ahead of time so you understand how to follow and can plan accordingly.
You’re Ready for a Boat Rental Vacation in Summer This Year
Summer vacation ideas often include boating and boating activities. If you are new to boating or want to put your skills to use with a summer boating adventure with family, friends, or your significant other, then following a few practical tips is the best way to have a stress-free boat rental vacation in summer months.
Book your summer boating fun with Your Boat Club and take “boat rental vacation in summer” off your “want to do” list and put it on your “let’s go” list.
