When the Payne family visited some friends in Knoxville a few years ago, there was no going back to their busy West Texas life.
“Coming from where it’s flat, and there’s no water and no trees, this was Narnia,” says Scott Payne, owner and operator of the Nautical Boat Club at Concord Marina. “We got here and fell in love with the scenery and the people.”
The Payne family hit the reset button and started a new venture by offering residents a more convenient way to enjoy that Tennessee lake life. The Nautical Boat Club provides a solution for the person who wants to own a boat but doesn’t want to fool with the upkeep and maintenance. With several levels of memberships to choose from, joining the club means choosing from a fleet of 13 boats of various sizes and styles, and getting on the water without a single worry.
“I grew up on the water every weekend, even though we had to drive two hours to get there. My dad’s time was limited during the week, but he disconnected on the weekends and we were all present on the water,” says Scott. “We saw an opportunity to share that with people and do it efficiently. Our slogan is cultivating relationships through life on the water.”
Members simply reserve the boat they want for a particular day and time, checkmark the number of lifejackets they need, as well as the water toys they prefer, and then they show up. Bring a cooler and some sunscreen, and your boat is waiting for you. If it’s a pontoon boat you want one day, and a ski boat the next, it’s not a problem. You can even bring the family dog.
“I love what I do. I love seeing the smiles on people’s faces, laughing and talking about what they did out there, how much fun they had,” says Scott. “It’s what people dream of. When you see those families and friends having fun, it’s so worth it.”
For more information on becoming a member, call the Nautical Boat Club at (865) 234-0000 or visit NauticalBoatClub.com.
