Want and alternative to fishing charters? Well Hire a Boat!
Fishing charters definitely have their good points…but sometimes you just want to get out on the water without the hassle or anxiety about who will be on the charter with you.
One of the reasons I started MatesBoat™ was because I went on a Fishing Charter that my wife purchased for me for my birthday.
The Worst Fishing Charter Ever……
On the day of the Fishing Charter, a friend of mine and I arrived all excited and anticipating an awesome day fishing. Well the excitement soon turned to “holly shit” what have we got ourselves into!
The Fishing Charter was a larger charter in Port Phillip Bay and we sat waiting 30 minutes for the rest of the group to turn up. They were late!
When they arrived they were drinking bourbon straight from the bottle and hanging out of the windows of their cars shouting out, as they pulled into the carpark… yes this was 8 am in the morning!
Anyway the Charter skipper allowed them on board and it ruined our entire experience. They were drunk and were also offering us drugs, which I am pretty sure they had been on the nose candy also.
To be honest, I knew right then we should have got off the charter. Our day was ruined by these morons and the skipper didn’t do anything about it. I think from fear of these large men or losing money.
There had to be a better way to enjoy fishing with friends and family without worrying about what dick heads you might end up with on your boat.
Solution…..
How do you avoid being at the mercy of my experience above? You hire a boat and chart your own course!
When you hire a boat, there’s a whole new world of fishing adventures that opens up for you.
Wield the power to personalise your fishing outing to your liking. It’s time to ditch the charter and become the captain of your own fishing adventure.
What Is Boat Hire?
If you’ve ever rented a car before then you won’t be too unfamiliar with hiring a boat.
It’s just like renting a car, except your eyes are on the sea instead of the open road.
Just choose the boat that best suits you and start boating on your own terms. No captain, no crowded deck – just you and your mates living your best lives.
How many are you bringing with you? No matter the size of your group, there’s a boat perfect for you and your crew that can help you create your dream fishing trip.
But why hire a boat instead of booking a charter? Let’s check out the main reasons:
- Personalised Experience: You call the shots – where you go, where and when you fish, and how long you stay.
- Cost-Effective: Boat hire often comes in at a fraction of the cost compared to a fishing charter.
- Flexibility and Freedom: Explore hidden coves, secret fishing spots, or just cruise along the coast at your own pace without feeling rushed.
- Privacy: Enjoy the tranquillity of the water without a bunch of strangers vying for the best spot.
Hire A Boat vs. Charter: Which Is Better? You Choose
Here’s a head-to-head comparison of these two options to help you make.the best decision
| Feature | Fishing Charter | Hiring a Boat |
| Experience | Guided by a professional skipper | Self-guided, you’re in control |
| Cost | From $234 Per Hour to $650 per hour or more depending on the boat. | $400-$600 (small fishing boat) and $500-$1,200 (large fishing boat) |
| Flexibility | Set itinerary, limited by charter duration | Complete freedom to explore and set your schedule |
| Privacy | Shared with other passengers | Private experience for you and your crew |
References: Sydney Harbour Escapes, MatesBoats
The choice is clear, isn’t it? Hiring a boat gives you the ultimate freedom and value for your hard-earned money..
How To Hire a Boat?
Ready to embark on your own fishing adventure? Here’s how to get started:
- Research: Look for reputable boat hire services in your area or at your chosen destination.
- Licences: Check if you need any licences or permits to operate the boat.
- Terms and Conditions: Read the fine print carefully and understand the rental agreement.
- Safety First: Make sure the boat is well-maintained, equipped with safety gear, and that you’re familiar with basic boating safety rules.
It’s Time To Choose Your Hire Boat: What To Look For
The type of boat you hire depends on a few factors:
- Equipment and Amenities: Do you need fishing gear, navigation tools, or other amenities like a BBQ or esky?
- Size and Capacity: How many people are coming along? What type of fishing are you doing?
- Insurance and Liability: Make sure you’re covered in case of any accidents or damage.
MatesBoat™: Your One-Stop Boating Adventure Shop
For a seamless boat hire experience, check out MatesBoat™. Here’s what you have to look forward to if you choose to do business with Mates:
- Easy Booking: A user-friendly website that features a marketplace where you can rent or charter a boat, list your own boat for rental, or sign up for various water activities, like snorkelling and fishing, in no time.
- Wide Selection: An impressive range of boats to suit every budget and activity; you’ll find the perfect boat for your adventure, from a small tinny to a large fishing boat.
- Customer Support: A dedicated team available to assist you every step of the way, providing support and guidance to ensure your boating experience is smooth and enjoyable.
- Transparent Pricing: Clear and upfront pricing with no hidden fees; you get to plan your budget effectively and avoid any unexpected costs.
- Verified Listings: All the boats and services you see on the site have been verified.
- Flexible Cancellation: Life happens! They offer flexible cancellation policies to accommodate any changes in your plans so you can have a hassle-free experience even if your schedule changes.
- Special Offers: Regular promotions and discounts to help you save money while enjoying the best boating experiences.
- Mobile Accessibility: A mobile-friendly platform that allows you to book and manage your reservations on the go; you can conveniently plan your trip from anywhere!
Let’s recap. MatesBoat™ is the real deal. We’re available for bareboat hire (where you drive the boat yourself) and chartered services with a captain. We also provide tools for managing bookings, secure payments, and marketing support for boat owners. Our site emphasises ease of use and community engagement.
The Best Places To Hire a Boat
The opportunities are limitless when you decide you’re ready to get out there in the water and catch some fish. Here are a few spots to hit up with your hired boat:
- Sydney Harbour: Snapper, kingfish, and even the occasional shark!
- Port Phillip Bay (Melbourne): Whiting, squid, and flathead galore.
- Moreton Bay (Brisbane): Home to a diverse range of fish, including snapper, bream, and tailor.
Be sure to check local fishing regulations and get tips from experienced anglers before casting your line.
Fishing Tips For When You Hire A Boat
Maximise your boat hire fishing trip with these tips:
- Gear Up: Pack all the essentials – rods, reels, tackle, bait, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Do Your Research: Check local fishing reports and weather conditions.
- Safety First: Always wear a life jacket, tell someone where you’re going, and carry a first-aid kit.
Make it a Unique Experience
Hiring a boat opens up a world of fishing possibilities beyond the limits of a traditional charter. It’s about more than just catching fish – it’s about the freedom to explore, the thrill of discovery, and the joy of creating your own unique adventure.
So, what are you waiting for? Ditch the charter and hire a boat for your next fishing trip.
With MatesBoat™ you can easily find the perfect vessel and set sail on an unforgettable adventure. The Aussie waters are calling – answer them with your own boat hire adventure!
“It takes a person vision, fortitude, and unswerving confidence to make a new concept succeed”
From the Book : Think and Grow Rich pg 189.
