(BPT) - Key Takeaways
- Find your calm with an on-demand escape to recharge and reconnect.
- Check out 4 ways to escape to the water and make the most of your summer.
- Visit DiscoverBoating.com to learn more and start planning your next adventure.
Looking to make the most of summer? You don't have to travel far to find an escape from your daily routine. Boating delivers an accessible vacation on-demand, transforming an ordinary day into something memorable.
"With rising travel costs, more Americans are exploring meaningful getaways closer to home and there's no better way to do that than getting out on the water," said Ellen Bradley, senior vice president and chief brand officer of Discover Boating. "When you're on a boat, it's an opportunity to unplug and reconnect with your loved ones, which is especially valuable in today's always-on, screen-driven world."
There's a scientific connection between water and happiness — a major draw for the estimated 85 million Americans who take to the water each year, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association. Time on the water increases serotonin, lowers cortisol and reduces stress, triggering a calm, restorative state of mind, where it's easier to reset and recharge.
When you're on a boat, it's an opportunity to unplug and reconnect with your loved ones, which is especially valuable in today's always-on, screen-driven world.
— Ellen Bradley, Discover Boating
Whether it's a spontaneous afternoon cruise, a fishing adventure or simply floating on the water with family and friends, boating makes a day feel well spent. It delivers the kind of experience that shapes how kids remember their summers growing up. In fact, according to recent research from Ipsos, 73% of prospective boat owners say their fondest childhood memories involve being on or near the water, with nearly half recalling those moments before age 13.
Boating is also more accessible than many people realize. You don't have to own a boat to enjoy the lifestyle. From rentals to boat clubs, there are flexible options to fit a range of budgets and interests. Discover Boating makes it easy to get started and, for those considering ownership down the road, offers tools and resources to help navigate the next step.
Ready to dive in? Here are four ways to escape to the water close to home and make the most of your summer:
- Test the waters by renting. Rental options are available on most waterways and provide hourly, daily or weekly access to a variety of boat types. Rental outfitters provide tutorials on operating a boat, share safety instructions and offer suggestions on destinations. Another option is peer-to-peer boat sharing, which allows you to rent directly from boat owners and often includes the option to hire a captain.
- Join the club (literally). Boat clubs offer access to a variety of boats. You'll pay a monthly fee and can book your time on the water and boat type online. Most boat clubs take care of docking, cleaning, maintenance and boat training courses, so all you have to do is show up and go.
- Learn the ropes. If you're new to boating or want to build confidence, taking a class is a great place to start. From on-water training courses to watersports camps and youth programs, there are opportunities across the country to help you master the basics while having fun along the way.
- Chart your course to ownership. Ready to find your dream boat? DiscoverBoating.com offers a boat finder tool and boat loan calculator to help you find an option that fits your budget and interests. If you're considering buying a boat, make sure it is NMMA Certified. NMMA Certified boat and trailer manufacturers have been independently inspected to ensure they meet strict industry standards for safety and construction, as well as all federal regulations. Look for the NMMA Certified sticker near the helm of a boat.
Visit DiscoverBoating.com to learn more and start planning your next adventure on the water. You can tag @DiscoverBoating and use #SeeYouOutHere to share your summer boating adventures.
