On bright sunny days, there is nothing better than being out on the water with friends and family. This can come at a high price tag when you consider the cost of a boat as well as docking and storage. The upkeep alone can be costly and takes commitment. If that doesn’t sound appealing, there is an alternative.
Carefree Boat Club of Cameron Harbor Chattanooga offers membership packages to rent from a fleet of boats with unlimited rentals and reciprocity at 115 locations across the country. An opportunity like this seemed almost too good to be true, so we reached out to Miranda Stout, Membership Director, to learn more.
Here’s what you need to know:
Anyone over 25 years of age is welcome to join! Safety and fun are top priorities with Carefree Boat Club, which is why all members, regardless of age, must complete all requirements to secure a NASBLA-approved boater safety license within 30 days of membership, which the club is happy to assist with. It’s important to note that a valid boater’s license must be secured before requesting a reciprocal reservation. Memberships are residence-based with member and co-member options, so couples can easily share one membership.
There are several package options based on the length of membership and usage. Packages start as low as $379 a month. The fan favorite package is $429 a month and comes with availability at two locations, unlimited boating, a variety of boats, and nationwide reciprocity. If exploring new places is what you are after, all packages allow for three visits at each Carefree Boat Club location each year.
Once a membership is finalized, you are ready to make your first reservation. Depending on your package, there are options to book on weekdays or weekends. Reservations can be made for early morning, late evening, or overnight excursions pending approval from the club.
Boats available for reservation include surf boats, tri-toons, and a double-decker complete with a slide. Carefree Boat Club wants the best for their members, which is why all boats are high-end, brand new, luxury boats. Additionally, members have access to a brand-new fleet each year.
If water sports are what you are after, even more options are available. As a member, you will have the option to reserve a Tahoe or Avalon tri-toon with enough horsepower to ski, wakeboard, or tube behind. Crownline Surf Boats are also included with the fleet. Members are welcome to invite non-members to share in the fun.
To gain some insight from a local Carefree Boat Club member, we reached out to Jena Pugh. Jena and her family relocated to Chattanooga from the West Coast. They love being out on the water but did not want to commit to owning a boat. To have the best of both worlds, they turned to Carefree Boat Club. Jena and her family have been members since last March. Jena commented on the smooth enrollment process, streamlined reservations, and incredible staff. Jena stated that while all of their time spent on the water has been great, they particularly enjoy taking out the double decker boat with a slide and watching the kids have fun.
Jena told us, “One day of boating is what the monthly dues are.” Jena’s advice to anyone who is hesitant about joining is, “Don’t hesitate. It’s a win-win.”
If you love boats but don’t want the commitment of owning, reach out to Carefree Boat Club of Cameron Harbor by phone (423) 591-6443 or email at tennesseegroup@carefreeboats.com.
“Don’t hesitate. It’s a win-win.”
-Jena Pugh, Carefree Boat Club Member