Tag Archives: boating tips

5 Reasons Why Renting is More Practical Financially Than Owning a Boat

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Cruising through serene waters is an experience like no other, but many boaters ask, “Is it smarter financially to own a boat or continue to rent?” At Motor Boatin’, we believe that renting is more practical financially than owning a boat, and we pride ourselves in providing affordable rentals for all to get out on the water.

Here are five reasons why we believe that renting is more practical financially than owning:

  1. Boats carry a hefty price tag: Purchasing a boat is a huge investment. In addition, like cars, boats depreciate value over time which is also something to consider. With affordable renting options like Motor Boatin’, it is a better idea to rent when wanting to get out on the water rather than paying that large price tag.
  2. Renting lets you choose different types of boats: When purchasing a boat, an individual is stuck with only one kind of boat. However, there are tons of boats out there like fishing or pontoon boats that all serve different purposes. Renting allows boaters to pick what type of watercraft will be suitable for them for that day, leading them to new kinds of experiences.
  3. Boats require regular maintenance: In addition to the upfront cost of buying a boat, individuals must also pay for maintenance and repairs. This can add up quickly, and it also takes time out of the owner’s day to do the required work or find someone to do it for them.
  4. It removes stress off the boater: Owning a boat can become very stressful. Some boat owners must worry about where they will keep their boat, what. By renting, individuals can just arrive at the lake, hop on the boat, and start cruising.
  5. Motor Boatin’ can provide assistance: When renting, Motor Boatin’ is able to help all our boaters while out on the water. If they were riding a boat of their own, they wouldn’t be able to have assistance. We can provide our knowledge on topics such as safety procedures and how to properly operate the boat.

Boaters don’t need their own boat to be able to enjoy the lake life!  If you are considering renting from us, reserve your boat today. Contact us with any questions you may have.

Different Pontoon Boat Sizes – 10 People vs. 17 People

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Pontoon boats come in many different sizes—both in length and width. Naturally, the larger the boat, the more its seating capacity is. At Motor Boatin’, we have pontoons of various sizes and capacities. This includes models designed for 10 people, 12, 14, and even 17 people.

So, what is difference in lengths that makes each one accommodate those numbers? Generally, for 10 or more people, a pontoon boat should start at 22 feet long. On the other hand, for a pontoon to hold 17 people comfortably, the sizes start increasing to 30 feet or longer.

Among our longer and larger pontoons, we have a Bentley Navigator. These run around 23 feet and hold up to 14 people. Our Crest Classic Pontoon, the largest in our fleet, holds 17 people and is over 24 feet long.

To see the models of pontoons that we have and their capacities, click here. This list includes our 10 person, 12 person, 14 person and 17 person boats.

But, it’s not just size that makes these boats the best option to rent. Pontoon boats have a great advantage in that they are much more versatile than other watercraft. They can be easily anchored out in the lake or pulled up near a shore line. You can also pull a tube or a skier behind our pontoons.

Plus, you can fish off of a pontoon or easily hold a picnic. Pontoons can troll along at a leisurely speed or go just a little bit faster without feeling as bumpy on the waves as other boats can.

Pontoons, no matter the size, really are the ideal boat to rent for family events on the lake. To reserve yours today, contact us at Motor Boatin’ by clicking here or calling us at 919-800-9716. We look forward to seeing you out on the lake!

3 Ways to Sharpen Your Boating Skills

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At Motor Boatin’, we have a lot of first-time boaters use our rentals – which we love! We are always dedicated to ensuring that all our customers feel completely confident out on the water and satisfied with their rental experience. We believe that this all starts with learning the boating basics. Because of this, this blog post shares some of our favorite ways for boating beginners to sharpen their skills.

Here are 3 ways to sharpen your boating skills as a beginner:

  1. Take an online safety course: Online, you can find hundreds of resources to learn more about boating. There are tons of courses, many of them being free, that you can take to master your time spent out on the lake. We recommend this free course on North Carolina Boating Safety from BoatUS Foundation.
  2. Get familiar with the area: One of the most important aspects of steering a boat is navigation. For first timers, it is often intimidating trying to learn where to go in a lake full of open water. It is much like visiting a new country for the first time. Therefore, it is important to plan ahead of time. There are many different boat navigation apps available which are important to download; however, unfamiliar waters with no cellular service usually don’t end well. This means you should always also feel comfortable with a compass and map when there’s no other option.
  3. Practice makes perfect: Everyone knows this old saying, and it’s true! No boater has ever improved without thorough practice. To really feel comfortable out on the water, it takes time. Our affordable and flexible rental options can assist you in your boating journey. We are always here every step of the way.

The easiest way to sharpen your boating skills is to get out on the lake and test the waters. Motor Boatin’ provides you with rental options for all kinds of boats. Call 919-800-9716 today to see which boat is the best for your plans and check our availability by clicking here.

How to Safely Anchor Your Boat

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So, you have been riding around on the lake, and you have found a nice cove that you want to drop anchor in and rest and relax. Just in case you have never done that before, Motor Boatin’ wants to share with you the safest way to anchor your boat in the lake.

The first thing to be aware of is to know the depth of the water where you are at. The length of the anchor line needs to be around five times the depth of the water. Angle the boat in the direction of the current you are in and idle the engine just slightly forward of where you want to drop the anchor.

Once you have got the boat in position, slowly release the anchor into the water. Do not just toss it out there, otherwise the line might tangle. Releasing it slowly into the water allows the anchor to slowly sink and move away from the boat. As the anchor sinks, allow the boat to move backward (go slowly in reverse if necessary.) But, don’t let it go too far.

Make sure the anchor line always has tension. This ensures that no tangling in the line takes place. Once the anchor has reached the bottom, it’s time to secure the rope. Wrap it around a cleat. When you feel the anchor has dug into the bottom surface, put the engine into reverse idle to back up slightly more.

After you are anchored, look at the landmarks around you and where the boat stands. Check periodically to see if the boat is drifting.

Of course, in the case of an anchor, what goes down must come up. When you are ready to leave, the anchor should lift easily, provided you lowered it correctly. Lift the anchor as vertically straight as you can so it won’t damage the boat, the line, or the anchor itself. Rinse off any mud or debris before placing it back in the boat.

And there you go. To rent one of our boats and find that cove to anchor in, check out our availability right here. At Motor Boatin’, we believe in having fun, relaxing, and enjoying safe times on our beautiful watercraft. Get out and enjoy the water!

Summer Boat Renting: FAQs

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With the warm weather and picturesque scenery, summer is the perfect time of year to rent a boat and get out on the beautiful, North Carolina waters. At Motor Boatin’, the summer months are some of our busiest, and with that, we receive all kinds of questions in regards to our boat rentals. In this blog post, we wanted to answer some of those frequently asked questions.

Here are some common summer boat rental questions:

How do I reserve a pontoon boat, fishing boat, or jet ski? The easiest way to reserve a rental is to head to https://motor-boatin.com/ and click the button under “Check Availability.” This will allow you to see what options are available on your desired date. You may call or text 919-800-9716 for additional questions about reserving your boat.

How far in advance should I book? This always depends, but earlier is always better. Some weekends, we are fully booked weeks in advance, and some we are not booked until the night before. Be especially mindful of holiday weekends throughout the summer. As soon as you know a date, call us and we can help you get reserved.

Where is the boat delivered to? The boat is delivered to Hwy 50 Boat Ramp, 13900 Creedmoor Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587. There is a $7 entrance fee, and parking is at the complete opposite end of the launching slips.

Is gas included in the price? Prices do not include fuel. You will start with a full tank of gas, and fuel consumption will vary depending on your usage. We will fill it up for you and charge the card on file for your convenience. Please do not bring your own gas – usually it is not what we put in the equipment, so it can damage the boats!

Can I bring my pet along? Of course! We love when furry friends are able tag along for the boat day. If you bring a pet, there will be a $30 fee for one and $45 fee for two. However, please keep the animals off the seats. Pets are not allowed on the following boats: Red Hurricane Sundeck, Mr. Blueberry, Tuffy, or Slimer.

Are you ready to reserve your spot? We are so excited to see you! To read more of our FAQs, click here.

Port or Starboard – Nautical Terms You Need to Know

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While boating, first-time boaters are introduced to what seems like a whole dictionary of terms that might be new to them. Port, starboard, windward, leeward – What does it all mean? It can become difficult to try to figure it all out while out on the water, so Motor Boatin’ is here to help break these nautical terms down so you’re prepared beforehand.

Here are some common nautical terms you need to know before boating:

  1. Port vs Starboard: You’ve probably heard the words port and starboard at least once. While they might seem complex at first glance, they really just mean left and right. If you are standing at the back of the boat looking forward, the left side will be the port side and the right side will be the starboard side. These terms make it easier for orientation purposes. Some people remember this by knowing that the words “Port” and “Left” both have four letters.
  2. Bow / Forward: The front end of every boat is called the bow. When an individual moves toward the bow, it would be said they are going forward.
  3. Stern / Aft: The back end of every boat is called the stern. When an individual moves toward the stern, it would be said they are going aft.
  4. Windward vs Leeward: As you may be able to guess from the name, windward is the direction from which the wind is blowing. Leeward is the opposite direction from which the wind is blowing. Sometimes these are used to describe where other boats are currently located.

Soon, you’ll be boating like a pro! Understanding basic nautical terms is always helpful in tense situations while out on the water, especially for first timers. Currently looking for a boat rental company in the local Triangle area? Choose Motor Boatin’ and reserve a spot today!

The Perfect Boat for Your Plans at Motor Boatin’

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Renting a boat for the first time is an exciting activity to do on the weekend, or any day of the week, but many boaters are unsure of which boat or watercraft to choose for their desired plans. With so many different boat options and activities to pick from, it can be difficult to select the one that is right for you and your party. At Motor Boatin’, we understand this confusion and want to help everyone, especially first-time boaters, find the boat that fits them best so that can fully enjoy the day at ease.

Here are some of the types of boats and watercraft we offer:

  • Fishing boats: Whether you’re looking for a relaxing, tranquil day on the lake or a jam-packed day filled with games and friendly competition, a fishing boat rental is perfect for you in both cases. Even if you or your family aren’t catching, you still get to enjoy the scenery of some of the most beautiful lakes in North Carolina. At Motor Boatin’, we can also provide a packed tackle box, rods, and fresh bait – all the tools you and your guests need for a day full of fishing!
  • Pontoon boats: Pontoon boats have the greatest variety with what they can be used for. Wanting a chill day on the lake with friends and family to forget about the weekly responsibilities for a bit by casually driving around? A pontoon boat is great for that! Looking for an adrenaline rush while tubing, water skiing, or wakeboarding through some crazy waves? Then, pontoon boats work for that too! You don’t always need a ski boat for the adrenaline rush, it is all about the type of motor which many pontoon boats have. Itching to put up a big fight and reel in a beautiful fish? Some pontoon boats come with trailing motors and seats for fishing! The pontoon boat is an amazing, versatile option bound to make any lake day a great day.
  • Jet ski: The wind racing through your hair as you speed across the lake while viewing the natural beauty of the water and trees around you. Sounds like an unforgettable time, right? If you said yes, then jet ski rentals might be a perfect fit for you! Jet skis are a nice option for any thrill-seekers.

With lots of options that can accommodate all types of needs, the perfect boat rental for you is out there! Check out our availability and contact us with any rental questions.

The Ultimate Guide to Boating on the Fourth of July

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The 4th of July is coming up quick, and there is no better way to spend the holiday than on a boat with friends and family. Whether you have a boat of your own or you are planning on renting at Motor Boatin’, we want everyone to have the boat day they deserve! To get the most out of the holiday, try following our boating guide for the Fourth of July and have the time of your life!

Here are some top tips for boating on the 4th of July:

  1. Bring food, food, and more food: When you’re out on the water all day, nobody wants to worry about being hungry. Packing snacks and lunches is an important part of any boating day. You can even choose festive options such as patriotic-colored fruit trays or bright, bold fruity drinks to stay fueled and hydrated throughout the day.
  2. Safety is key: On any boating day, it is important to be safe and practice proper boating etiquette, but this is especially true on the 4th of July. The waters are always more crowded and being cautious and safe is important. Check here for our safety FAQs.
  3. Get to your firework spot early: Is there anything more American than watching fireworks on the lake? We don’t think so. When watching a firework show on the water, it is important to get to your spot early and leave late. This allows you to pick the location before anyone else while also avoiding lots of boat traffic that no one wants to deal with.
  4. Don’t forget sunscreen: Out on the water all day in the middle of summer, sunburns seem inevitable yet many falls victim to blistered skin. Making sure you have some good SPF and are applying throughout the day can save you from looking red, white, and blue.

The Fourth of July is the perfect day of the year to spend on the lake making memories. If you’re interested in renting a boat for this holiday, check out all we have to offer here. For any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out. As always, happy boating!

Helpful Tips to Navigate Crowded Waters This Summer

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It’s almost officially summer, and there is no better way to spend the day in the beautiful weather around the Triangle than on the lake on a boat. Everyone seems to agree with this which is why crowded waters are more and more common during this season. There is nothing to be worried about in crowded waters as long as the proper precautions are taken. At Motor Boatin’, we believe that safe boating is the best type of boating out there which is why we want to help.

Here are five tips for navigating crowded waters this summer:

  1. Never drink and boat: While boating out with friends might seem like one big party, safety is important, and the person driving the boat should not be consuming alcohol. You wouldn’t drink and drive, so do not try drinking and boating either. Having a clear mindset and good visual awareness is crucial when navigating crowded waters for not only your own safety but the safety of others as well.
  2. Keep your speed in mind: When boating in a crowded area, slow and steady wins the race. The slower the speed the more time there is to take in the surroundings and properly navigate the situation. Trying to quickly get through the area can lead to mistakes and rougher water which is bound to cause accidents.
  3. Have a designated skipper: When boating, make sure that there is someone else who knows about the operations of a boat. Having someone to help out can make a stressful crowded situation more manageable and all around safer for all.
  4. Keep distance from crowds: While the crowds can’t always be avoided, doing your best to go around them is important. If you see a crowded area in the distance, if possible, go the other direction or anchor up and enjoy the current location you’re already at.
  5. Always wear a life vest: You never know what is going to happen and it is always better to be safe than sorry. Having the proper flotation devices can help avoid a bad situation. There is also a law in North Carolina that requires anyone younger than 13 to wear an appropriate life vest when on a recreational vessel.

During the summertime, boating is a great way to enjoy and relax in the wonderful weather but being safe is more important than anything. Taking the proper precautions when boating crowded waters can make all the difference. For any questions contact us here!

Diving into the Best Practices for Boat Safety

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To ensure a long, fun-filled day out on the lake, safety must be a number one priority for all individuals looking to ride or operate any type of watercraft. At Motor Boatin, we know and understand the importance of boating safety.

Here are five tips to ensure the safety of all passengers onboard:

  1. Take a course: At Motor Boatin, a lot of our boaters are beginners. This is why safety courses can be extremely helpful. They can help boaters feel more comfortable and confident when out on the water. Here is a free online course.
  2. Know how to properly use life jackets: Life jackets can be the difference between life and death. Even the most experienced swimmers should consider wearing a life jacket. In North Carolina, children under 13 are required to wear an appropriate life vest when the vessel is underway.
  3. Don’t overload the boat: Parties should always follow the specified person limit when deciding how many individuals will be on the boat. It is especially crucial to not gather at the end of one side of the boat. This can cause the boat to flip and people to potentially drown, therefore, it is extremely dangerous to overcrowd the boat.
  4. Avoid alcohol: Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol is illegal. It can severely affect your sense of judgement and is one of the leading causes of boat accidents. Keep yourself and your party safe by just avoiding alcohol altogether when operating a watercraft.
  5. Regularly check the hourly weather conditions: It is important to check the hourly weather conditions in the nearby area because as a storm approaches, so do unsafe boating conditions. Remember that, at Motor Boatin, rentals can be rescheduled before reservation date with no penalty. Going out on the water during an extreme storm is not worth risking your life.

Safety always comes first! If you feel like venturing out on the water for the first time, reserve a rental from Motor Boatin today. Our goal is to make everyone feel confident when boating. Contact us for more information.