Renting a boat opens up the world tenfold. There’s just so much you can do.
Feel like cooking up a fresh dinner? Grab a pontoon rental, visit your favorite river, and see what a few hours of fishing can get you. Thinking of throwing a party for someone special? Step things up a notch with a swimming-and-cruising session at the nearby lake. One way or another, boating has a way of sitting in our hearts and making our lives much more enjoyable.
The sky’s the limit…but that doesn’t mean you should rush into things! Check out the safety tips below to make sure you’re getting the most out of your pontoon rental in 2020.
Quick Facts About The Iconic Pontoon Boat
Where did this incredible creation come from? Historians believe pontoon boats to have first been invented by a farmer named Ambrose Weeres, back in the 1950’s when boat technology was hitting an interesting peak. While massive ships are well-known over the centuries, more convenient options were few and far in-between. The pontoon rental hits a sweet spot that lets casual boaters and enthusiasts enjoy the waters. To date, over 85 million Americans participate in recreational boating every year.
All Boats Have A People Limit, So Do A Headcount First
Think you have what it takes to enjoy Austin boats? Make sure you’re familiar with the basics first. Your average 18 to 20 foot pontoon boat should seat anywhere from two to six people at a time. Under ideal conditions, this boat with just one person can hit 31 miles per hour. How many you have aboard will affect your steering capabilities and speed. Make sure not to go above the limit, even if you think it’ll be okay: capsizing is dangerous!
Party Boats Are Fun, But Make Sure You Have Safety Measures Stocked
The party pontoon boat is the new big thing. It’s a simple spin on the classic party, getting everyone together to enjoy good company and good waves. As with all parties, though, it pays to be careful. Double-check your storage and make sure you have all the basics for safety: these include signal flares, life jackets, non-perishable food, water, and extra fuel. If you’re not sure what else to pack, ask your boating professional for a few pointers.
Give Yourself A Test Run So You’re Comfortable Driving
There’s no shame in admitting you’re a little rusty. When you get your pontoon rental, ask if you can take it for a spin. Driving these is pretty easy, even if you don’t have a lot of driving experience under your belt: you just need to be of driving age or have a guardian nearby. Today the recreational boating industry in the United States has an economic impact of $120 billion every year. It’s held afloat, pun intended, by 35,000 small businesses.
Have A Blast With Your Party Pontoon Boats
Now that you’re familiar with some safety tips, it’s time to take to the waters and enjoy your rental. Pontoon boat rentals today have flexible schedules, which means you can book one in advance or upon arrival. You should call ahead of time just to be safe, however: summer is easily the most popular season for boating excursions. Talk to your boating professionals about which model is best for your needs. Make sure you’re clear on the terms and conditions of usage, which includes damage coverage and deadlines on when the pontoon rental needs to be returned.
Enjoy the waters. Feel the breeze. Check out a pontoon rental for your next birthday, anniversary, or bachelorette party.
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