ultimate Boat clubs

Q: What is Ultimate Boat Clubs?

A: Ultimate Boat Clubs is a membership-only boating club that offers an alternative to Boat Ownership. Members have unlimited use of a variety of pristine boats without daily usage fees, while we handle insurance bills, boat storage, boat payments, cleanup and maintenance. Ultimate Boat Clubs gives our members exceptional value. Your Ultimate Membership covers all costs associated with boating except the actual fuel you use.

Q: How do I know there will be boats available?

A: Ultimate Boat Clubs maintains a boat to member ratio that ensures the availability of boats for all of our members. As the Membership grows, we will continue to add more boats to the fleet. Reservation policies vary by club, but members are entitled to multiple reservations at one time and up to 90 days in advance. Member satisfaction is the key to success in our business and we understand that providing good access to spotless boats are the driving factors.

Q: As a Member, what types of boats will I be able to use?

A: Ultimate Boat Clubs offer several levels of memberships and several types of boats to handle each type of boating activity. The boats range from 21 to 25 foot fishing boats and sportboats to 24 to 29 foot Cruisers and now a Yacht class that provides access to yachts up to 38 feet. Please see the Ultimate Boat Clubs Fleet page for a current list of all planned vessels.

Q: Can I join even if I have no boating experience?

A: Yes absolutely. Each Member is required to complete an approved Boating Safety Course just as if you were to buy a boat. In addition, each member will have an on water orientation prior to their first outing to provide guidance on local waterways and hazards. Additional time will be spent with any member requesting it. For larger boats, we can arrange for a captain if the member desires.

Q: Is Insurance included in my membership?

A: Yes! In the unfortunate event of an accident, our members are only liable for up to the insurance deductible of $2,500. As a note, our insurance provider must approve all new members.

Q: How do I make reservations?

A: Reservations can be made through our online reservation system or by calling our office. Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance.

Q: Is there a limit on the number of times per season you can boat?

A: No, we encourage you to get out on the water as often as you and your schedule allows. Members will be allowed multiple Planned Reservations at any one time in addition to Spontaneous Reservations that can be made on short notice based on availabiltiy of boats.

Q: How long can I keep the boat out?

A: We offer all day options during the week and half day options on the weekends for the Boat Club. Arrangements can be made to return after marina hours. Cruisers and Yachts may be taken out overnight.

Q: Do I need to own my own boat to join the club?

A: No, but if you own a boat with very low hours and in pristine condition, please consider our Owner Member option. Call us for more details.

Q: Who can I bring with me on a boat?

A: As long as there is one qualifying member on board, you may bring anyone you like on board.

Q: How do I sign up?

A: Call us at 203-894-9661 to answer any questions you have. When you are ready, you must fill out a Membership Application Packet. Please keep in mind that space is limited and the closer we get to the 2008 season, the fewer options there will be at each location.

Q: What does it cost to join The Ultimate Boat Clubs?

A: Memberships are currently available at all locations; however, certain locations may offer our cruiser and yacht fleet and respectively our Cruiser and Yacht memberships. Memberships include unlimited use of the Ultimate fleet at your Home Port and reciprocity at all current and future Ultimate locations. Please the Membership Plans button for more information.

Q: Does Ultimate offer corporate memberships?

A: Yes we do, corporate plans are designed for companies who want to offer the club as a perk to employees as well as use the club for entertaining clients. Corporate Memberships do not have unlimited usage and all boat operators must be pre-approved by Ultimate and our insurance carrier. Please call 203-894-9661 for more information on Corporate Memberships.

Q: As a Member am I obligated for the length of the agreement or can I exit out of the club?

You are obligated for the term of your agreement unless you opt for the Initiation Fee Membership. For this membership, you may exit at any time without any penalty but you will forfeit your entire initiation fee. See Membership Plans for more details.

Q: Can I transfer or sell my membership?

A: No, but we understand that life changes sometimes and will work with members who can no longer use the membership due to illness or relocation. Any decision is at the sole discretion of the Ultimate Boat Clubs directors and are reviewed on a case by case basis. Members who are concerned about this should consider the Initiation Fee Membership which may be canceled at any time. See Membership Plans for more details.

Q: Are there any daily usage charges?

A: No, you will not incur any usage charges. You are only responsible for the fuel that you actually use. Additional services such as catered lunch or bait for fishing trips may be charged as additional charges. For exceptional service, you may tip dock hands.

Q: What are your hours of operation?

A: Our hours of operation will vary by the hours of the marina at your location. If you want to get out early to fish or stay out later to enjoy the evening, just let us know and we'll make the arrangements.

Q: Are there any special deals if I only want weekday usage?

A: Yes, many of our boats are expected to be idle during the week, so we have a special weekday only membership in the Boat Club for only $3,900 per year. See Membership Plans for more details.

Q: Do I have reciprocity at other Ultimate Locations?

A: Yes. Members are encouraged to boat from any of our locations throughout Long Island Sound. Ultimate has plans to grow outside the local area and encourages members to suggest other desired locations. See Locations for current plans.