Boat Club Operations: A Guide To Understanding The Basics

Boat clubs are a great way to enjoy the boating lifestyle without the costs and responsibilities of owning a boat. They are designed to maximise enjoyment and make boating easy and accessible. Boat clubs typically have a fleet of boats available for members to use, with members paying a one-off joining fee and then monthly subscription fees for access. This can be much more affordable than owning a boat, as members don't have to worry about maintenance, service, insurance, cleaning, and storage.

Membership fees

Most boat clubs charge an upfront enrollment or joining fee, which can be anywhere from a thousand to nearly ten thousand dollars. This fee grants access to the club's fleet of boats and covers the cost of maintenance, insurance, and other upkeep expenses. Following the initial payment, members are typically required to pay monthly dues, which can range from a hundred to a few hundred dollars. These recurring charges provide continued access to the boats and related services.

It's important to note that membership fees are structured differently across clubs. Some clubs offer various membership tiers, with different perks and access levels. For example, certain clubs provide distinct membership types catering to varying schedules, such as weekend or weekday boating. Additionally, some clubs group their boats into "piers," where higher pier levels grant access to a larger number of bigger and better boats.

When considering the cost of boat club membership, it's worth comparing it to the expenses of boat ownership. Boat clubs often provide a more affordable option, as members contribute to the collective upkeep of the fleet, resulting in lower individual costs. Furthermore, members are spared the hassle of maintenance, repairs, insurance, and storage, which are typically the responsibility of boat owners.

While boat clubs offer a cost-effective alternative to ownership, it's important to be mindful of potential limitations. Members might experience restricted boat availability, particularly during high-demand periods, and may need to plan their outings accordingly. Nevertheless, boat clubs provide an excellent opportunity for boating enthusiasts to enjoy their favourite pastime without the financial burden of boat ownership.

Boat types

Boat clubs are a great way to enjoy the boating lifestyle without the costs and responsibilities of owning a boat. Boat clubs usually offer a variety of vessels to suit different preferences and needs. Here is a list of some of the boat types you may find at a boat club:

• Pontoons: Pontoons are popular boats that offer a stable and spacious platform for boating. They are ideal for leisure cruises, social gatherings, and simply spending time on the water.
• Bow riders: Bow riders are designed with an open bow area, providing seating and space at the front of the boat. This style of boat often has a sporty look and can be great for social outings or cruising.
• Center consoles: Center console boats feature a console in the centre, offering a versatile layout with ample deck space. They are often used for fishing and can accommodate various activities.
• Deck boats: Deck boats are known for their wide-beam construction, providing a spacious deck for passengers. They are well-suited for social gatherings, family outings, and water sports enthusiasts.
• Powerboats: Powerboats are typically smaller to medium-sized boats powered by an inboard or outboard motor. They are versatile and can be used for various activities, including cruising, water sports, and fishing.
• Yachts: Yacht clubs or boat clubs with charter services may offer access to luxury yachts. These vessels provide a sophisticated boating experience and are often associated with exclusive boating clubs.
• Kayaks and canoes: In certain locations, such as environmental protection areas, boat clubs may offer kayaks or canoes as a more eco-friendly option for exploring the waterways.
• Sailboats: While less common in boat clubs, sailboats may be available for those who enjoy the art of sailing and the tranquility it offers.
• Jet skis: Jet skis are not typically included in boat club memberships, but some clubs that focus on watersports may offer them as an option for thrill-seekers.

It is important to note that the availability of specific boat types can vary between clubs and locations. Boat clubs aim to cater to different preferences, but the selection may be limited compared to one-time rentals, where a broader range of boat styles is accessible.

Training

Boat clubs typically offer comprehensive training programs for members, ensuring that even new boaters can navigate with confidence. These programs cover everything from the basic rules of the waterways to advanced navigation techniques. Some clubs, like Freedom Boat Club, offer an optional on-water training course in addition to the required member orientation and free training given to all members. This course is usually led by qualified captains who provide both on-water and classroom instruction.

The level of training provided can vary depending on the club and the membership tier. For example, some clubs may only offer basic training on how to operate the boat, while others may provide more advanced instruction on different boating techniques. There are also clubs that cater to specific types of boats, such as powerboats or sailboats, so the training will be tailored to that particular type of boating.

In addition to the training provided by the club, members can also take advantage of private boating lessons offered by independent instructors. These lessons can be customized to the individual's needs and can cover a range of topics, from basic boating skills to more advanced techniques.

It's important to note that boat clubs usually require members to go through an orientation meeting and on-water training before allowing them to operate a vessel. This ensures that members are comfortable and confident in their abilities before taking out a boat on their own. Overall, the training offered by boat clubs can vary greatly, but it is an essential part of the membership experience, providing members with the skills and confidence they need to safely enjoy their time on the water.

Maintenance

Boat clubs maintain the vessels in their fleet and oversee regular cleaning, fuelling, and other concerns. This includes engine repairs and general servicing. The boats are usually fuelled up and ready to go when members arrive, and clubs often provide an app or online system to make reservations and check boats' availability.

Boat clubs are also able to keep maintenance costs down because many members contribute to the overall care and proper use of the boats. Members also invest in their boat club and care about the quality and condition of the vessels available to them. This differs from boat rental companies, which may focus more on profits than maintaining their fleet.

Boat clubs also offer training and support, so even new boaters can navigate with confidence. Some clubs provide comprehensive training programs, from basic rules of the waterways to advanced navigation, ensuring members have the skills needed to safely operate a vessel.

Location

Boat clubs are located in areas with access to water, from lakes to oceans. Some boat clubs are located in exclusive or gated communities, with membership restricted to residents. Others are open to anyone who can pay the membership fee.

Boat clubs can be found in a variety of geographical locations, from the Sandbanks in the UK to the Côte d'Azur in France, and from San Francisco Bay to lakes in Minnesota. Some boat clubs have multiple locations, with members able to access boats at any of the club's sites. For example, Freedom Boat Club has over 400 locations worldwide, including in North America, Europe, and Australia.

The location of a boat club can impact the types of boats available and the activities on offer. For example, a club located in an environmental protection area may only offer kayaking or canoeing due to restrictions on other types of boating. Similarly, a club in an area with narrow or shallow waterways may only offer smaller boats.

Boat clubs in areas with more water access tend to have lower fees, while those in high-demand areas with limited waterways may charge higher dues.

When choosing a boat club, it is important to consider the location in relation to your own residence or desired boating areas. The club's location will also determine the types of boats available and the activities you can participate in.

In addition to geographical location, boat clubs may also have different "piers" or levels of membership, which grant access to different groupings of boats. These piers may be based on the size, quality, or location of the boats, with higher-level memberships offering access to more or better boats.

Frequently asked questions