ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 29, 2010 - Despite how boating is portrayed in Hollywood movies, most boaters are not rich. Statistics show they are more likely to own a small trailerable boat than a mega-yacht, and prefer T-shirts and shorts over blue blazers. They also watch how they spend, and to help boating families stretch their dollars, BoatUS has five ways to save on boating expenses this summer:
Borrow a kid's life jacket for free: If you're expecting young guests aboard and have a temporary need for a right-sized life jacket, don't buy one. The BoatUS Foundation has over 500 Kids Life Jacket Loaner Program locations across the country -- at marinas, clubs, and fire houses -- where you can borrow one for free for the day, afternoon or weekend. You do not have to be a BoatUS member to use this program.
Take a boater safety course free of charge: Boating safety courses can set you back almost $45 if taken online, or as much as $100 for a classroom-based course. Or, you can take the BoatUS Foundation's free Online Boating Safety Course which is recognized as boater certification in 32 states. BoatUS membership is not required.
Join BoatUS and save at marinas on fuel, overnight slips and repairs: Save money on fuel by getting up to 10 cents per-gallon off at select BoatUS Cooperating Marinas . Other discounts may include up to 25% on transient slips and 15% on repairs.
Get discounts on bait, tackle and guides: BoatUS members can also get discounts of up 20% at bait and tackle shops as well as up to 30% off fishing guide services. Go to BoatUS Angler to check them out.
Try adjusting your boat insurance: Increasing your deductibles will save you some dollars. If you have had your boat for a period of time, consider reviewing the total value of your policy with your agent; even consider purchasing a liability-only insurance policy thus saving premium dollars. You can also investigate some lower-cost options with BoatUS Marine Insurance.
More information on these programs can be found at www.BoatUS.com and http://www.boatusangler.com/.