Did you know that more than 100 million Americans go boating every year? Even if you don’t have a boat of your own, you’ve might have imagined sun-filled days out on the water with your family or taking an exciting fishing trip on the weekend. There’s nothing like the smell of the ocean water, with the sun shining down on you, as you enjoy the company of those you love.

Boats, while a dream to own for many, are a significant investment. Luckily, there is a way to enjoy everything you love about a boat without the hefty upfront cost or maintenance fees – boat clubs. Boat clubs give you access to a fleet of boats at a fraction of the cost it would take to own one outright. Here are five advantages of boat club membership for families:

1. Save On Insurance Premiums

Just like any other vehicle, there are insurance costs that come with owning a boat. When you become a member of a boat club, these insurance costs are included in your monthly membership dues. This is a big cost to consider when more expensive boats can carry higher premiums that might cause you to reconsider whether or not you can afford a boat at all. Also, you have to keep in mind that boat clubs factor this into consideration to keep costs low. For instance, the Lake Dora Boat Club in Florida works with customers to help them get what they are looking for by making boating simple, affordable, and fun.

2. No Maintenance Costs

There is regular maintenance that must be performed on a boat in order to keep it running properly and looking its best. These costs can range from bottom painting to engine tune-ups, keeping the hull clean, or even an unexpected breakdown like a ripped sail. These expenses can really add up, but when you become a member of a boat club there’s no need to worry about that. You can do what you love- which is going out on the water with the people you love!

3. Professional Training

There’s no need to worry about obtaining a captain’s license when you join a boat club. Boat clubs will provide you with all the training you need to feel confident and safe when operating one of their boats. They will also have a staff member on call at all times in case you run into any trouble or have any questions. This is a great advantage for those who want to be able to enjoy the water without all of the responsibility.

4. Wide Range of Boats

Boat clubs give you an opportunity to explore different types of boats and find the one that fits your needs. You’re not locked into owning just one type of vessel. This can be great for families because you have the chance to try out a lot of different activities on the water. For example, the Adventure Boat Share Club offers members the chance to choose from a variety of different boat types for people of all walks of life.  This gives you the opportunity to find the perfect boat for your family’s needs.

5. Convenient Locations

Boat clubs are typically located in areas that offer easy access to a variety of different waterways. This makes it convenient to get out on the water without having to worry about towing a boat long distances. This can be a big advantage for families because it cuts down on travel time and gives you more time to enjoy being out on the water.