Few things evoke such potent and fond memories as family fun on the water. Kids in the water trying to survive with Dad driving the boat on those hot summer days. More and more, these same memories are being made with Mom driving the boat. According to Sue Wallace, owner of Freedom Boat Club, nearly 34% of their members are women boaters. “While women have traditionally been exposed to boating growing up, more and more women are ‘taking the helm,’ so to speak,” Sue continued. “Freedom Boat Club offers unlimited training, allowing all members to achieve a level of independence and comfort on the water.”
In recent years, North Texas has experienced a “boating boom,” with many first-time boaters joining the market, mainly due to the Pandemic. Families looking for safe, socially distanced activities that did not require travel found recreational opportunities on our local lakes convenient and affordable. As with any first-time endeavor, boating can be intimidating. In addition to concerns and details around insurance, registration, purchase, and maintenance, safety tops the list. Sue notes, “We do all the upkeep of the boats from purchase, storage, maintenance, insurance, cleaning, and even fueling the boat. Our Coast Guard captained training program gives boaters, men and women, the confidence to operate our boats safely so having fun can be top of mind.”
In addition to making memories with the family, boating has proven a powerful networking tool in recent years. A growing trend is to trade in stuffy business lunches for a spin around the lake. With over 400 locations around the world, Freedom Boat Club allows folks to conduct business in practically any market. Networking also extends beyond the traditional business function. Many social groups have sprung up, giving like-minded individuals a new way to meet and form relationships. Your local Freedom Boat Club hosts a Women Boating Group with social outings and boat training in addition to networking opportunities.
The Texoma women’s group starts the season with a Ladies Brunch, including boat rides, on Sunday, May 18th, at 11 AM at the Point Restaurant. Both locations plan to host additional events such as wine floats, brunches, wine tours, and a beach party! For more information about the “women in boating” group or Freedom Boat Club membership, please contact texoma@freedomboatclub.com.
FreedomBoatClub.com
Texoma: (903) 419-2339
Lewisville: (972) 532-1901