Boating has surged in popularity, becoming one of America’s favorite pastimes. Whether it’s a relaxing cruise on a lake, a thrilling day of watersports, or a peaceful day of fishing, boating offers something for everyone. If you’re ready to join the wave and take up boating, here’s how you can get started without breaking the bank or diving into deep waters unprepared. Below are seven ways to get into boating, including various price points and the necessary equipment.
1. Rent a Boat for the Day
Cost: $150 – $800/day
Best For: Beginners testing the waters
Renting a boat is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to experience boating without the long-term commitment. Many rental services are available at popular lakes, rivers, and marinas, offering a variety of boat types from pontoons and bowriders to jet skis.
Rentals often come with necessary safety equipment like life jackets and boating licenses, so you don’t need to worry about compliance. Renting allows you to explore different kinds of boats before deciding on which one might be the best fit for you in the long run.
Specs to Consider:
- Pontoon Boats: Ideal for families or groups; seating for 6-12 people
- Jet Skis: Great for thrill-seekers; top speed around 50-60 mph
- Fishing Boats: Perfect for anglers; includes rod holders, storage for tackle boxes
2. Join a Boat Club
Cost: $3,000 – $10,000/year (depending on location and type of membership)
Best For: Frequent boaters who don’t want the hassles of ownership
Boat clubs are a fantastic alternative to boat ownership. Members typically pay an annual fee and can reserve boats from the club’s fleet for use throughout the year. The biggest advantage is that the club takes care of maintenance, insurance, and storage, so you can just focus on enjoying your time on the water.
Popular boat clubs, like Freedom Boat Club and Carefree Boat Club, offer a wide range of boats including fishing boats, sailboats, and speedboats, so you’re never stuck with just one option.
Specs to Consider:
- Access to different boat types: Sailboats, pontoons, speedboats, etc.
- Club-specific perks: Some clubs offer water sports gear like wakeboards or water skis as part of the membership
3. Buy a Used Boat
Cost: $5,000 – $30,000 (depending on boat type and age)
Best For: Budget-conscious buyers
Buying a used boat can be an economical entry point into boating, especially for those who plan on frequent outings. Online marketplaces, local dealers, and classified ads often feature well-maintained boats at a fraction of their original cost.
Ensure you get a professional marine surveyor to inspect the boat before buying, as this will help you avoid costly repairs down the line. You can also check out trade shows and boat auctions for deals on used models.
Specs to Consider:
- Bowrider: Great for families and recreational boating, typically seats 6-8
- Fishing Boat: Equipped with fishing-friendly features like rod holders, live wells, and casting decks
- Used pontoon boats: Can be perfect for leisure cruising; often have plenty of space for guests and storage
4. Start Small with Personal Watercraft (PWC)
Cost: $6,000 – $15,000 (new models)
Best For: Solo adventurers or couples
If you’re not ready to commit to a larger boat, a personal watercraft (PWC) such as a Jet Ski or Sea-Doo can be a fun and affordable option. PWCs are compact, fast, and easier to tow or store than a full-size boat. They are also fuel-efficient and don’t require much maintenance compared to larger vessels.
PWCs are perfect for solo outings, quick adventures, or exploring shallow waters where larger boats can’t go.
Specs to Consider:
- Top Speed: 50-70 mph, depending on the model
- Passenger Capacity: Most PWCs seat 1-3 people
- Fuel Economy: Typically 3-5 gallons per hour, making them efficient for weekend rides
5. Try Kayaking or Canoeing
Cost: $300 – $1,500 (depending on model)
Best For: Nature enthusiasts and solo adventurers
For those who love the water but don’t want to deal with motors and fuel, kayaking or canoeing is a great entry point into boating. Kayaks and canoes are perfect for exploring rivers, lakes, and even coastal waters. They’re quiet, allowing you to get close to nature, and they provide a great upper-body workout.
Canoes are typically more stable and spacious, making them ideal for tandem paddling or carrying gear for a day trip, while kayaks are sleeker and faster, designed for solo use or whitewater adventures.
Specs to Consider:
- Kayaks: Lightweight, usually 8-12 feet long, and available in sit-in or sit-on-top designs
- Canoes: Roomy with higher weight capacity, typically range from 14-17 feet long
6. Lease or Finance a New Boat
Cost: $200 – $600/month (depending on loan terms and boat price)
Best For: Long-term boaters who want ownership with manageable payments
If you know you’re ready to own a boat but aren’t looking to pay the full price upfront, financing or leasing can make boat ownership more accessible. Many dealerships offer financing options that allow you to make monthly payments, just like purchasing a car. The monthly cost will depend on the boat’s price, the length of the loan, and the interest rate.
Leasing is another option, though it’s less common in the boating world. This allows you to enjoy a new boat for a few years without a long-term commitment.
Specs to Consider:
- Pontoon Boats: Spacious, ideal for families and leisure, starting at $30,000 for new models
- Center Console Boats: Perfect for fishing and water sports, starting at $40,000
- Cuddy Cabins: Great for overnight stays on the water, starting at $50,000
7. Take Boating Classes and Get Certified
Cost: $50 – $300 (depending on the course)
Best For: Beginners who want to learn boating skills
Before you hit the water, it’s essential to know the rules of the road (or water, in this case). Many states require a boating license to operate certain types of vessels, so taking a boating safety course can help you gain the confidence and knowledge needed to enjoy your time on the water safely.
Classes often cover topics such as navigation, safety equipment, and local boating regulations. Some courses are available online, while others are hands-on, giving you the opportunity to practice piloting a boat under the guidance of a certified instructor.
Specs to Consider:
- License Requirements: Varies by state, but most require a safety course for operators under 30-40 years old
- Time Investment: Courses typically take 6-8 hours to complete
- Certification: Upon passing, you’ll receive a boating safety card valid in most U.S. states
Final Thoughts
Boating is a fantastic way to relax, explore, and have fun, whether you’re seeking adrenaline-filled adventures or peaceful days on the water. From renting a boat for the weekend to buying your first personal watercraft, there’s an entry point for everyone regardless of budget or experience level. By considering these options, you’ll be well on your way to joining the millions of Americans who are enjoying boating as their new favorite activity.
Happy Boating!
Share 7 Ways to Get in on America’s New Favorite Activity: Boating with your friends and leave a comment below with your thoughts.
Read 5 Ways to Celebrate the Fourth of July on a Boat until we meet in the next article.