How to choose the right boats for your boat rental business
Choosing the right boat is a crucial first step paving the way for a successful boating business venture. With so many different types and models of boats available, it can be challenging to make the right decision. Identifying your business edge and brand values is a brilliant way to get started. For instance, if your brand values sustainability, human-powered boats and electric boats are strong contestors.
At the same time, a business relies on its customers, so having a clear idea of your target audience will make this decision a breeze. This article will talk you through three pivotal decisions: knowing how to pick the right boat, putting your fleet together, and deciding whether to employ a captain. By the time you reach the end, you’ll be ready to embark on this exciting journey.
Choosing the right boats
The question seems obvious, and therefore it’s a good place to start: what type of boats do you want to rent out? There are generally three types to choose from: human-powered boats (rowboats and canoes fit into this category), sailboats, and motorboats. And within motorboats, there is a significant distinction between electric boats and those powered by fossil-fuel combustion engines.
Rowboats
Rowboats are the perfect fit for couples or small groups of people who want to enjoy a relaxed journey on the water without any particular purpose or hurry. For many, it is an opportunity to satisfy their fantasy of being rowed down an idyllic river by Hugh Grant (as in that Bridget Jones movie), or to otherwise imagine themselves as Hugh Grant (as many of us do). And while that already seems like a great advertising pitch, rowboats and canoes may not be cost effective unless they are offered in large quantities and attract enough customers.
Sailboats
Not quite as romantic but exuding old-school charm, sailboats are generally more expensive and require experienced boaters, making them accessible to fewer people. They are popular among people who enjoy a challenge and like to have control over their boat, and are great for those looking for a longer stint on the water, from a full day trip or a weekend getaway to a water-based holiday. And, of course, you always have the option of renting this boat out with a captain for those with less boating experience, which comes with its own list of benefits. However, customer competency and hiring a skipper aside, these boats are high maintenance, meaning more costs are incurred for you as the business owner, particularly with regards to caring for sails and masts.
Motorboats
Motorboats, on the other hand, can be rented by less experienced customers and are often rented for shorter periods of time, meaning that you, as a business-savy boating company, can take advantage of renting out the same boat several times a day. Motorboats are great for various activities such as fishing, water skiing, or simply relaxing on the water (just at a slightly enhanced speed to a rowboat!)
Go green with electric boats
While there are two different types of motorboats – combustion-engine and electric boats – at Let’s Book we feel it’s important to advise our forward-looking clients against combustion engines. Electric boats are a great way to showcase to your customers your commitment to reducing harmful carbon emmissions released into our air, river and lakes. Not only do electric boats produce less noise pollution, meaning your customers won’t have to shout over the sound of the engine, but these boats emit no exhaust fumes, unpleasant smells, or harmful gases. One of the many joys of taking a boat out is the escapism it offers from the stimuli of modern life: the cars, the overheating engines, and the beeping horns. Your customers want to be able to hear birds chirping, and to catch a glimpse of a darting red kingfisher, both impossible feats with a heavy engine chugging along.
In summary
Choosing the type of boat is a significant decision for our clients (you), for the experience of your customers, and for actioning your brand values. By examining local demand; costs, particularly maintenance costs associated with a sailboat’s sail and mast; and the number of boats you can offer, Let’s Book’s smart-thinking clients can make the best choice to provide their customers with an unforgettable experience on the water.
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