Boat Rental Wiser Than Owning

According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the average boat-owner spends $5,625 per year on recreational boating. That figure doesn’t include the purchase of a boat, nor does it take into account the ballooning cost of gas. ODNR further states that the average boater hits the water 18 times per year. Do a little math and you’ll find that the average boat outing costs the owner more than $300.

For that price, they better make quite a splash.

For those who have always longed to captain their own vessel, it might be a wise move to investigate boat rental options. Not only do you get to use the boat right away-the rental facility takes care of license fees, maintenance, docking and storage, and insurance-you can also enjoy an outing for a lot less than $300.

Ohio’s State Parks offer plenty of options. For example, in Portage County, the marina inside West Branch State Park rents a wide variety of boats, from personal watercrafts to pontoon boats, and all come equipped with the necessary safety and recreational gear. Ski boats come with skis, life preservers, and if you ask a question or two, you’ll even get a quick instructional less from the dock.

Other rental options abound. Not far away, in Massillon, Ernie’s Bike Shops offer “Pedal and Paddle” trips that combine a bike ride with a canoe trip for $16 to $22 per day per person.

Waterway Adventures in Burnside, Kentucky is one of dozens of private marinas near the state’s favorite watering hole, Cumberland Lake, that offers a variety of boats for rental-short term or for a whole vacation. The lake is a popular spot for boaters, and an increasingly popular vacation spot for those all over the Midwest. With the growing trend toward intergenerational family travel, both water enthusiasts and non-boaters are finding houseboats accommodate various activity levels and schedules.

Renting a boat before investing in one makes sense. So does learning the basics of safe boating. Many states, as well as outfitter and parks, offer free and low-cost boating safety instruction. Check your local marina for details.