One of the best things about Long Island is that you are never far from the water. The Atlantic Ocean, the Long Island Sound, the Great South Bay, dozens of rivers… There’s definitely no shortage of water.
While there are tons of ways to enjoy all of the water that Long Island has to offer, the best way is by actually getting out on it in a boat. From fishing to swimming, or simply sitting back and breathing in the salt air, boating is a truly incredible experience. Not everyone has the means to own a boat, however. The cost of the vessel itself can be astronomical, and then add the cost of docking and upkeep… So, what can you do if you want to experience boating but don’t want to (or can’t) invest in your own vessel? – Rent one!
If you’ve never rented a boat before, you might be feeling a bit intimidated. No worries! – It’s actually a lot easier than you might think. Below, we share some of the most important things to consider before renting a boat for the first time.
Make Reservations in Advance
On Long Island, peak boating season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day. If you’re planning on renting a boat during this time frame, it’s in your best interest to make reservations in advance. Just like you, tons of people in the area want to get out on the water during peak season. There’s a chance that you may be a boat available at the last minute; however, if you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity, make sure that you book ahead of time.
Get Certified
As of May 1, 2014, anyone who was born after May 1, 1996 must possess a NY Boating Safety Certificate when operating a watercraft.
If you were born after May 1, 1996 and plan on renting a boat, make sure that you enroll in a NY Boating Safety Course before you make reservations for boat rentals amityville. The course is 8 hours long and you must take a final exam and receive a minimum score of 76%. Once you receive your certificate, it’s valid for life.
What Type of Boat?
Before you make your reservation, figure out what type of vessel you would like to rent. There are several sizes and options available and a good-standing boat rentals long island company will offer a wide selection of choices.
What kinds of boat should you choose? – That depends on what you plan on doing. For example, if you are going to be touring, a deck boat is a good choice; if you want to kick-back and relax with a big crew, a pontoon boat will serve you well; and if you want to go fishing, well, a fishing boat is the obvious choice.
Find Out About Insurance
A boat rental company is required to carry liability insurance. Make sure that you find out what type of coverage the company you are working with has and what, if anything, you are required to agree to and accept. You might have to agree to and accept responsibility for anything that happens on the vessel, no matter what happens and what the cause.
Do a Vessel Check
Inspect the offshore support vessel with the boat rental company. Make sure that you examine the condition of the vessel and note if any damage exists. For example, if there is a crack in the windshield, stains or tears on the upholstery, or if there are any broken fittings, document them by taking pictures. Though a highly regarded boat rental company will already be aware of any issues with the vessel (and will let you know about them, too), you don’t want to risk being held responsible for damage that you didn’t cause.
Go Over Safety
A boat rental company that has an excellent reputation will offer all of the safety equipment you need. This should include Coast Guard approved life jackets that can be adjusted to size, flares, flashlights, first aid kits, launch service, and other safety essentials.
Make sure you find out where the safety equipment is located, that you inspect it, and that you know how to use it before you head out. The last thing you want when you’re out on the water is to run into trouble and not know where the safety equipment is – or worse, find out that there’s none available, or that it’s in poor condition.
Pack Properly
You’re definitely going to want to bring along the right gear to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your entire boating venture. What should you pack? – That depends on what you are planning on doing. For example, if you plan on fishing, you want to make sure you have all of the equipment you need.
No matter what you plan on doing while you’re out on the water, here’s a basic list of things you should consider taking along:
- Towels
- Sunscreen
- A few changes of clothes
- Bathing suits
- Sweatshirts
- Eye protection
- Hats
- Extra shoes (waterproof shoes, too!)
- Food
- Drinks
- Music
Think of boating as a mini-vacation. You want to have everything you need so that you can have an enjoyable experience.
Have Fun!
Last but not least, make sure that you have fun! If you’re prepared and know what you’re getting into, you’ll be sure to have an incredible experience!
If you’re interested in renting a boat, give us a call to make your reservation today! We are one of the most reputable boat rental companies on Long Island and offer a wide selection of boats at prices that will suit your needs.