Renting a boat can be exciting when you’re ready to explore the open waters. Whether you are a novice boater or have years of experience, you should take a few key steps when renting a boat to explore the beautiful coast of San Juan del Sur.
This guide will provide practical tips on renting a boat and ensuring your time on the water is safe and enjoyable.
How Boat Rental Works?
Pre-plan Your Desires for the Nautical Adventure
Before you search for a boat rental, decide what activities you plan to do on the trip. This will help narrow your choices and ensure you get the right vessel to suit your needs. For instance, if you plan to go fishing, you should rent a boat designed for this purpose. Likewise, a larger ship might be required if you plan to stay overnight at a campsite.
Research the Boat Rental Companies in Your Area
Once you know what kind of experience you want, research the local boat rental companies that offer similar services. Check out their websites and read their reviews online to get an idea of their customer service and the quality of the boat. Additionally, ensure you know the safety procedures they have in place and any additional fees that may apply. At Esmeralda Sailing, we provide packages for renting a luxury catamaran without the hassle of knowing how to sail it!
Discover the Steps to Rent a Boat Easily
The most important step when renting a boat is to secure a reservation. To do this, contact the rental company and provide your information, including the date and time of your trip and any other details about the vessel you’d like to rent. From there, the company will provide you with the necessary paperwork to sign and pay for the rental.
Before Leaving the Dock
Before you set sail, you and your co-boaters should be familiar with the boat. The rental company should provide a tutorial on operating the vessel and safety protocols. Additionally, check for any additional equipment that might be needed, such as life vests, paddles, and anchors.
Finally, ask the rental company questions about their policies. Some of the questions you might want to ask:
- What policies do they have about weather-related cancellations?
- Are they willing to trailer the boat to a slipway of your choice?
- Do they offer boating accessories, including safety gear?
- How do they penalize you for returning the boat late?
- Based on your age and licensing, what boats do you qualify for?
Read the Rental Agreement Before Signing
Once you’re confident the boat is perfect for your trip, you’ll have to deal with the documentation. You should evaluate the rental agreement carefully before signing it to avoid surprises. The details on the rental agreement include the following:
- The rental duration
- The extent to which the insurance covers the boat
- Additional fees and terms involved
Signing the agreement means you’ve read and understood the terms. If anything happens during the boat trip, you’ll be legally liable. The company can present the document in a court of law against you, so be sure of what the agreement entails.
What Do You Need to Rent a Boat?
To enjoy your boating experience, please make sure to follow the steps below:
- Be 18 and above: Most boat rental companies have an age restriction of 18 years and above.
- Know boating safety rules: Before renting a boat, you must understand the basic safety rules and regulations.
- Ensure your payment method is approved: Most boat rental companies accept major and debit credit cards.
- Have the necessary documents: Depending on the boat rental company, you may need to provide a valid driver’s license or passport.
- Make sure to read the rental agreement: Carefully read and understand the terms outlined in the boat rental agreement before you sign it.
Enjoy Your Nautical Adventure With Esmeralda Sailing!
Renting a boat can be an exciting and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. With the right research, you’ll find the perfect boat that meets your needs. At Esmeralda Sailing, we pride ourselves on providing you with the best possible boat rental experience in San Juan del Sur.
From the moment you book your reservation to the minute you return, our customer service and boat quality are unmatched. Plus, we have all the necessary safety gear, insurance coverage, and convenient payment methods for a worry-free day on the water. Contact us today to book your next sailing adventure!
