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Beat the Heat with Easy Ways to Cool Off on the Water
Boating experts offer convenient, affordable options to get feet wet this summer
As summer heats up and temperatures rise, Discover Boating, the non-profit awareness program for the U.S. recreational boating industry, has affordable tips to help landlubbers make waves while creating lasting memories with friends and family aboard a boat this summer.
Boating is a favorite warm weather pastime across the U.S. In fact, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), an estimated 66 million Americans went boating in 2009. What’s more, Discover Boating reports that spending time on the water is one of the best ways to connect with family and friends. Results from a May 2010 survey of 4,300 members of the nation’s largest boat owners group, BoatU.S. reinforce this as more than two-thirds (nearly 78 percent) of respondents said spending time on the water plays a significant role in bringing their families together.
“As the heat index climbs across many parts of the country, getting out on the water on a boat can be the perfect way to cool off while spending quality time with family and friends,” says Ellen Hopkins, spokesperson for Discover Boating. “Boating enthusiasts, not just boat owners, can find easy ways to test the waters and discover the boating lifestyle this summer.”
Whether considering boat ownership or just looking to get your feet wet, Discover Boating has on-the-water options to float your boat:
Rent or Charter. Boat rentals come in a variety of forms, from hourly and daily rentals to weeks-long charters. Renting is a helpful way to compare boat types and explore local waterways from a new vantage point. Multi-day chartering may help save on trip expenses such as food, lodging and activities, which can often be negotiated into the overall cost of a chartering package.
Share Time and Costs. Fractional boat ownership, similar to lodging timeshares, are cost-effective ways to use well-appointed boats and distribute costs related to fueling, pump-out, maintenance and insurance among a group of friends or other local timeshare boaters. Members pre-schedule use of the boat online and often get the added benefit of lessons, flotillas and additional crew, if needed.
Join a Club. Local boating clubs and organizations allow inexperienced boaters the chance to test the waters through lessons, regattas and events. Clubs provide members with access to a variety of boat types, interaction with fellow boaters and events for all skill levels for an annual or monthly fee.
Test the Waters. Visit a local boat dealer as they can help narrow down options if in the market to purchase a boat, suggest options to best fit a budget and take interested boaters out for a test drive to experience how the boat performs. Similar to shopping for a car, test driving several boat types will help even the most experienced boater make a selection that works best for their budget and lifestyle.
For more boating tips, resources and information, visit www.DiscoverBoating.com.
About Discover Boating
Discover Boating is a national awareness campaign developed by the North American recreational boating industry and managed by the industry’s trade group, the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA.org). Discover Boating programs focus on improving the boating experience and building interest in recreational boating by providing a resource for Americans to explore the benefits, affordability and accessibility of the boating lifestyle. To find out more, visit www.DiscoverBoating.com.
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