Boat Community: How The Communities Have Changed In The Recent Decades

Boating is a popular national pastime in the U.S. Some reports estimate that over 25 million registered boats exist in the country, giving evidence to the popularity of the activity. Traditionally, a boat community used to be a physical forum for boat owners to get acquainted with. Boat clubs, marinas, and harbors were the symbols of the community where owners would get together to discuss and partake in joint activities. These were, and to a large extent still are, exclusive clubs with restricted memberships. They could also be elitist with high joining fees and annual, recurring, membership charges. All this has changed drastically, though, courtesy the advent of the internet and its deep penetration the world over.

Just like platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn helped connect people from across the globe, modern boat communities, too, have evolved from their rigid social structure to welcome one and all, through virtual platforms. This has opened up a whole new demographic of people who were interested in boating but were unable to indulge in it. Some of the key ways, the boat community has changed are:

• Ease of access: These days, all it takes to join a good boat community are your email, internet connection, and basic personal details. Whether you are a boat owner, or simply a boat lover, there is no restriction on signing up to become a part of the forum. Amazingly, there is, usually, no charge as well and some of the best boat communities offer their platform and services for free.
• Convenient browsing: In the past, you only had access to boats that were a part of, and registered in your community, or moored in the same harbor. Even for a big club, this is still quite a limiting number. Now, though, people can register from any part of the country, or even beyond it. This opens up your access to a wide range of boats that are registered in the directory of the boat community. With just a few clicks, and from the convenience of your home or office, you can explore a vast array of boats, know their specifications in detail, and even contact the owners to get their first-hand experience.
• Social connections: People form the foundation of any community, boating or otherwise. A diverse group of people helps extend your own horizons in thoughts and ideas. A boat community, typically, is home to a wide variety of people. From first time boat owners to seasoned veterans, the range of experience is priceless. By participating in any of the multiple conversation threads and other public posts, you can significantly enhance your own knowledge and skills, while also contributing to bettering other’s experiences.
• Access to information: In the U.S. while there are several Federal laws regarding boating, there are quite a few rules and regulations unique to each state. Non-compliance can lead to harsh penalties and fines. A boat community, apart from all the fun and frolic, also serves as a great source of valuable information. Whether it be an update on safety regulations, amendment to an existing one, queries can be raised and responded to on the platform, especially when you plan to visit an outside state, the regulations of which you may not be aware of. This had become all the more relevant during the recent past of social restrictions and limited movement. Boating platforms became the veritable source of letting its members know what was permissible and what was not during the lockdown and regarding taking your boat out for a spin.

As you can see, boat communities have become far more inclusive, affordable, and easy to get into. So, if you have the water-bug and are looking to connect with like-minded people who share your excitement about boating, then just identify a wholesome boat community and sign up right away.