Are you looking forward to a fun-filled adventure on the water? If yes, renting a boat might be what you need for a complete experience.

The boat rental industry in the US has a market size of $5 billion in 2021, which highlights their demand. Boat rentals offer you a taste of the boating lifestyle without having to own one of your own. You're thus able to enjoy an exciting boat trip with your family and friends as you make memories.

You can find boat rentals almost anywhere there's a marina. However, it doesn't mean that all of these options are ideal for you. Going through the many options can make renting a boat a big deal.

You'll want to find a boat rental service that's supportive, which makes boat leasing easy. A great boat rental company enhances your boat ride experience, making it enjoyable.

If you're considering renting a boat, think about your decision carefully. Here is a breakdown of some of those things to consider before renting a boat.

Try a Reputable Boat Renting Company

Are you having trouble looking through the numerous boat rental options? Try looking at reputable boat renting companies before working with either option.

Boat rental companies have professionals to guide you through your decision-making process. Their previous clients offer insight into the experience, so check the testimonials. A reputable boat rental company focuses on your satisfaction since they've got the status to uphold.

Please do your due diligence about how they've handled boat rentals in the past. Speak to other clients and ask any necessary questions, if need be. Consider an online search by using independent review websites for an honest rating.

Reputable boat renting companies tend to stay on top of issues like maintenance. You'll thus not have to worry about your day in the water getting cut short. Their rental agreements aim to make your experience on water like none other.

It's advisable to look through the time they've been in the market before making up your mind.

Assess the Boat Types Available

When getting a rental boat, you should consider specific requirements. Assess the available boat types to find a vessel fit for your needs.

Many boat types can be overwhelming to choose from. You'll have to think of your needs to narrow the selection to a handful of options. For a fishing trip, for instance, consider the different types of fishing boats.

Here are some questions that can help with your choice;

• Is the boat type suitable for your recreational plans?

• Does the boat have the capacity to have everyone on board?

• Do you have what it takes to drive the boat?

• Can the boat handle the depth of water you're planning to go out into?

Remember; rent a boat type you're confident to handle. The waters can be quite uncanny, and your professional skills might come in handy. If you want an upgrade, consider getting trained and licensed for it first.

Information on the Local Laws

What does the law say about boat leasing? Getting information on the local laws can also be crucial before renting a boat.

In most cases, the company will cover the legal aspect before seeing you off on your trip. You shouldn't, however, ignore some research into what the law has to say. There's so much that the laws account for, which is why you need to know them.

One area that's a focal point for the laws is the age requirements to rent a boat. The requirements differ from one state to another, and it's necessary to know whether you're eligible or not. It would be embarrassing to go to a place where no one in your group can legally operate a boat.

You'll need to have proper licensing before you can hire a boat. It thus means that you need to have completed training to gain permission to operate a boat. Fortunately, boat club memberships offer training to ensure you're a confident and competent boater.

Information on the local laws tells you just what to expect before renting a boat. Not only does it concern you, it covers pet requirements and also pertains to marine life. Learn about the dos and don'ts of your boat trip to avoid confrontation with the authorities.

Have a Plan

What do you intend to do on the boat trip? Having a plan is a critical step before hiring a boat. You wouldn't want to spend money on a rental boat just for a boring trip, would you?

Early planning is critical to ensure you make rental reservations in advance. The boating season can be hectic, so take care not to miss a rental.

It would be best if you thought of the recreational activities for the boat trip before renting a boat. Choose activities that are a good fit for everyone on the trip to ensure no one is left out in fun. The activity types assist you with decisions, including;

• Items to pack for the trip (water, gear, food)

• Boat rental option to choose; whether a fishing boat or a sailboat

• The best weather and times for your activities

Did you forget to pack extras? Don't worry; check out the boat club collection for whatever you need.

Having a plan also serves to enhance safety while out on the water. Safety tips improved by having a plan include;

• Having all contact information for the Marina

• Letting people know how long the trip will take so they can check on you if you don't return

So much can happen on a boat trip, no matter how cautious you operate it. Having a plan can ensure you have people looking out for your safety too.

Inspect the Boat Before Renting It

Before signing the boat rental agreement, it's necessary you know what you're dealing with. Inspecting the vessel is, therefore, a valuable consideration.

The benefits of inspecting a boat before renting include;

• Ensuring vessel safety checks are fully met

• Noting damaged equipment to avoid liability when you take the boat back

The inspection ensures your safety remains paramount. You get to check with the agent to ensure all necessary items are aboard. An assessment familiarizes you with the boat to easily locate safety equipment in case of an accident.

Scratches and cracks can be a deal-breaker because of the risk they expose you to. Inspecting the boat ensures you're cautious and only accepts boats in tip-top condition. You'll also escape responsibility for existing damages that you didn't cause.

Ensure You Understand the Rental Agreement

Just like other renting processes, you have to deal with paperwork while you lease a boat. Ensure you understand the rental agreement fully before assenting to it.

Boat rental agreements are legally binding, so pay attention before signing. Read through each section in the document and understand it before renting the boat. For fine print you're unsure about, consider seeking assistance.

One part of the agreement is the liability provisions. By signing, you assume responsibility should damage happen to the vessel while you operate it. Look through potential damage and the related costs that you might have to incur.

Only sign the rental agreement after you're clear about everything within the clause. Signing the document makes you responsible for the boat and crew's safety while on the cruise.

Boat Rental Pricing

What is your budget for the boat trip? The boat rental pricing will influence your total expenditure; so, check on costs before renting.

The rental pricing includes terms on how to handle the payment. Be prepared to pay the deposit on the boat rental amount as specified in your agreement. Before you leave with the boat, a deposit is necessary, and you will settle the total amount later.

Boat rental prices are influenced by;

• Geographical location

• Boat type

• Season

• Membership

• Renting period

Boat rentals tend to cost more in tourist destinations compared to unchartered waters. Therefore, the geographical location determines the rental cost you incur on boat leasing.

Check the pricing on different boat types since they're also a cause of the disparity. Larger boats, for instance, will cost more to rent than smaller boats. Fishing boats also are a lot cheaper to hire in contrast to luxury cruisers.

You'll likely pay more for a boat rental during peak seasons due to the demand. The summer is among the peak seasons when boat lease prices will skyrocket. It's advisable to plan your trip early in peak seasons before the boat rental prices increase.

Some boat clubs offer members better privileges for their boat rentals. One such privilege is the pricing, with members accessing discounted rates. Join now as a new member to access such privileges since they save you a lot of cash.

Rental durations influence the rates, with longer rentals attracting lesser per hour fees. Renting per hour is the most expensive option, so you should go for a full day or weekly rates for the best deals. Check for packages that will favor your pocket; you get to save some dollars while on it.

Check the Cancellation Policies

Suppose something happens before the boat trip you've already booked. What happens then? Check the cancellation policies for the boat rental company to know what to do.

Cancellation policies are not made equal. Don't assume that all are typical and read through the information offered. You'll know exactly what to do in the event that you can't go on your boat trip anymore.

Most boat rental companies will have a refund policy or can allow you to reschedule. If you're well informed about their policies, both of these are options you'll discern.

If you've got any questions about making changes or cancellations, you could talk to the company's staff. They're always ready to help.

Consider Insurance

Is the rental boat insured? Before you rent the boat, confirm that it's insured.

The law requires boat leasing companies to have coverage for their boats and customers. The right insurance policy will ensure you're safe should anything happen during the boat rental.

The most common coverage is damage liability to cover attached boat fixtures. Other policies cover medical payment and compensation for injuries sustained within an accident.

Insured rental boats will offer you peace of mind as you sail with your household. You're thus able to have a clear mindset before boarding and thoroughly enjoy your boat trip.

Prepare for the Weather

You're probably already anticipating the amazing time you'll have on the boat trip. Most people, however, fail to remember how unpredictable weather can be.

Rain or a storm while on your cruise can dampen the party spirit. It can get quite uncomfortable if you have children on board. It's thus advisable to prepare for the weather before renting a boat.

Here's how to better your rental experience by preparing for the weather;

Check the weather in advance. Accurate weather predictions help know which days are favorable for boating. It thus can help you choose which day to book your rental.

Spreading out the activities throughout the rental period will ensure you retain flexibility. You can reschedule, if need be, to avert the bad weather days.

Go in with the necessary gear and personal effects. Preparing for the unpredictable weather means you tuck in an extra jacket in case of a storm. Prepare for all extremities such that if it's scorching, you'll have sunscreen and a hat to weather it.

Consider the Above Tips Before Renting a Boat

Choosing a boat rental service that suits you has never been easier. Utilize the above tips before renting a boat to make it easier. A great boat rental enhances your water adventure experience, making it memorable.

Are you looking to rent a boat? Freedom Boat Club is here to help!

We offer a variety of membership plans to fit your unique boating needs. Our members have unlimited access to the home club fleet and enjoy memberships at Freedom Boat Clubs in the USA, Canada, and France.

Contact us today to speak to our member experience team.