Southwest Florida Boating & Fishing Magazine Nov 2015 | Page 7

“There Is One Last Option To Consider” calling. Cleaning is also done once the boat is returned to storage. Some places may even include gas in there fee. So shop around! The last consideration is insurance. Boating insurance, just like your car insurance, will help you with any damages or accidents that may occur. It is always a good idea to shop different insurers for the best coverage and pricing. If you are planning on using a boat only a few times a year, then renting a boat is the way to go. There are plenty of businesses renting different kinds of boats. Deck, pontoon and fishing boats can be found just about anywhere. Most offer a half day of 4 hours to a full day of 8 hours. Some businesses offer a full day option that lasts until sunset which is perfect if you are planning to be out all day. However, there are a few things to ask before signing the contract. 1) If you are planning on doing some water sports or fishing, ask if the gear is included in the rental price. Some charge extra for the add-ons. 2) Ask if they offer Sea-Tow in the contract. It is a good idea to spend a little extra for this service. If you are not a member, it is expensive to be towed back to the marina. 3) Make sure you walk through the boat and know where all your emergency equipment is located. You never know when you may need it. 4) Make sure you have a full tank before leaving the dock. Remember these are rental boats and are not always 100 percent. Sometimes the gas gauges don’t work properly and are not accurate. So make sure you have a full tank. 5) Additionally, do a thorough exam of the boat and take pi ctures of any damage that was there prior to you taking it out. You don’t want to lose your deposit for damage you did not cause! And then there is one last option you should know about before deciding if you want to buy or rent. Boaters Clubs. If you do not want to own a boat and maintain it yourself or you are worried about renting a below par boat from a company. Then a boaters club might be your answer. Boaters clubs are companies which offer private members the use of a selection of boats for either an annual or monthly fee. In return, you get to choose the boat that fits your needs for the day. Go out as many times as you want each month, and some companies are national so you can arrange a boat in another city at no additional costs. These boats are kept in top condition by the marina and always gassed up and ready to go. It is best to do your homework on the Clubs for availability and costs to join. So whatever you decide, have fun and be safe out on the water. A good day is a day returning home! Cape Coral • Fort Myers • Port Charlotte • Naples November 2015 7