We are always trying to keep up with what the younger generations are interested in, what’s “cool” and what’s keeping them busy on the weekends. In the particular boating world, we want to know how to cater to them to encourage more young boaters. Many people enjoy getting out upon the water, but not too many people in their 20s and 30s can afford a boat and all the expenses that come with it. Of course, that’s not the only option. Marinas want to stay up to date with what younger adults want, whether that’s boat rentals, boat sharing, or other affordable ways to get out on the water. As for any business, these methods must make economic and financial sense. Having a profitable company is the bottom line for most marinas. Luckily, I am here to give you an inside scoop. As a Gen Z myself, I’m going to share my personal perspectives on how boating is viewed in my generation.
Historically, owning a boat has primarily been for middle-aged boaters in the United States, with the average boat owner age of 58 years. However, after the pandemic drove many to explore more solitary outdoor recreation such as boating, the average age has dropped to 46 years. New boat sales surged 40% during the pandemic, and, although not as drastic, the upward trend seems to be continuing. More plus more people want in order to get on the water. Even so, there is still a stigma about the amount of money and effort owning a boat entails. Although boating can be quite expensive, it doesn’t have to be.
This year’s boat statistics prove that 95% of recreational boats in the United States are less than 26 feet in length. Owners of boats that are smaller in size, can avoid slip fees by storing the boat in their back yard and trailering it to a launch each time they want to take it out. Another way of saving money and precious time on the weekends is by joining the boat club or boat sharing program, which provides boats whenever (and nearly wherever) you want.
Boat Sharing Trends
Boat sharing may be the latest and greatest in recreational sailing options. Boat sharing will be a little different than simply renting a boat. Renting boats has been around for ages plus it’s a great method for families and friends to get from the particular water for the day. Boat clubs are taking this idea of vessel rentals to the next level.
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Boat sharing companies introduce the simplest, cleanest, and cheapest (so they say) alternative to buying the boat. There are a few different ways boat sharing can work. Whether it’s a boat club that has its own boats, or a system where boat owners may offer up their vessels to other members for the day, boat sharing makes boating easier. Peer-to-peer boat sharing is a way to connect boat owners along with interested renters to get a boat out without the commitment of having their own boat. Boat clubs have a variety of boats in stock, so renters can choose a different motorboat every time they go out if they need. Additionally, with larger vessel club companies, some have locations all around the country, so a member can go to any club they want plus take a boat out. That’s a little easier than hauling your personal from coast to coast. When it comes in order to choosing which boat to take out, the options are almost endless – if your budget is too! People love taking sailboats out for a Sunday morning regatta or a sunset sail; ski boats can tow innertubes and wake boards behind them; and of course, we have the popular pontoon for fitting a whole party onto one boat. This is a fantastic option when you have the divided family that can’t decide which boat would be best to buy. The solution is to simply join a boat sharing club so you can take the sailboat out one weekend and get a cruiser for the following. Some people say that will as technology advances, we become more accustomed to instant gratification. A prime example of that is clicking a button on your own phone and 30 minutes later a boat is usually awaiting your arrival, ready to go.
Boat Rental Trends
Another choice for marinas to add a revenue stream will be offering small craft, human-powered vessels for rent. This could be any combination of kayaks, canoes, SUP’s, and paddle boats. Some people want to get out on water for exercise, which is a great option to going to the particular gym, and is more environmentally friendly than an engine-powered boat. Again, the convenience of not having in order to lug this small vessel around, bring it to the water with a trailer, or having to clean and maintain it saves time and even more money. Instead, people will gladly pay a small fee to go away for an hour or two. This added amenity makes marinas stand out there from their competitors.

The sharing economy that we have recently turn out to be familiar with includes automobile rides and homes, so why not create a space for boats as well? Sometimes it is not feasible with regard to boat owners to go out on their ship every weekend. This leaves vessels to grow old within their slip. Why not really give them a better life? There are many fishing boat sharing companies and night clubs, do your research before jumping into one. It’s important in order to investigate the insurance policies and coverage, annual and individual fees, and of course, what kind of boats they have! Some companies are local, while some have marinas all over the world.
Vessel Valet Trends
Another growing trend that will may or may not appeal to younger boaters is usually boat valet services. This requires you to have your own boat. The process goes like this: the user calls the marina or even storage facility the day time before they would like to take their boat out, the facility brings the boat to the launch, and the consumer takes the boat out there. When they are ready to come back in, these people give the facility a heads up, drop the boat off at the launch and head home. Additional services can include refueling, cleaning, and repairs. An over-the-top feature may include the facility providing ice, drinks, and food when the boat is prepared to head out regarding the day. This valet service can also be combined with the boat clubs, where the club provides all the necessities ready to go whenever the renters arrive. This process takes much of the particular additional time and effort out associated with owning a boat but introduces a financial barrier that is likely too much for most young people.
Without a doubt, there are still people who desire to buy their very own boat to operate plus maintain themselves. Boat discussing allows more people to get into boating, and decide if owning their own boat is the right choice intended for them. In the end, the amount of time and money you save depends upon how often you consider a boat out. Overall, it is great in order to see more and more ways to get people to access and enjoy the water without immediately investing in the commitment that individual boat ownership requires.
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