HOT TOPIC

HOT TOPIC We discuss important topics with marine industry experts who share their opinions and top tips to help you get the most from your boating.

Rather than holidaying abroad this year, you could join a boat share club. Steve Rodwell, club manager at Boat Club Trafalgar, explains what you need to consider.

The concept of a ‘boat club’ is different from joining a traditional yacht club. You simply subscribe monthly and choose from a fleet of club-owned and managed boats, whenever you need one. When you arrive, your boat is launched, ready to go. When you return, simply hand the keys back and the club takes care of the boat.

With the growing popularity of staycations, if this sounds like a convenient way to get afloat and enjoy your free time this year, there are a few things to consider.

What you want to do afloat influences the type of boat you need. If fishing is your main goal, choose a club with a suitable stable boat. If you plan on beach trips with family and friends, towing a wakeboard, or taking longer distance cruises to quiet bays you will need a club that offers a selection of RIBs, sports boats and cabin cruisers.

Bear in mind, some boat share clubs do not require you to have previous powerboat experience before you join and will either offer training on-site, or arrange it locally for you to achieve the RYA Powerboat Handling Level 2 standard, for an additional fee.

Boat Club Trafalgar, for example, welcomes new boaters and more than 20 per cent of members start from scratch when they join. All essential powerboat training is included as part of the membership package, along with socials and guided trips.

Social Side An advantage of joining any club are the social aspects; meeting like-minded people and making new friends. If socialising is for you, check if the club you are interested in offers any social events.

Boat Club Trafalgar runs shoreside socials where members can bring guests, plus there are regular on-water Guided Discovery Trips. Members join the lead boat to explore the best destinations, stop for lunch and get all the local knowledge.

While these are days out, if you are interested in overnight stays, check the club allows this and, if so, has suitable cabin cruisers, with comfy berths, a toilet and facilities for your creature comforts.

Booking a Boat Booking systems and how often you can use a boat varies from club to club. Some offer a set number of bookings per month or year. Others have an annual points system where your points are deducted whenever you book a boat, with peak periods usually requiring more points.

At Boat Club Trafalgar there is a rolling booking system, where members can choose a boat and book up to four sessions at any one time via a mobile app. Once a session is completed, another can be booked. This ensures access is fair and gives unlimited boating, all year round.

When you find a club that fits your needs, get in touch - many will offer bespoke tours and taster sessions. www.boatclubtrafalgar.com