If you’re a boat owner looking to earn extra income, renting your boat on Getmyboat is a fantastic option. Before you list, however, there are a few important steps to make sure you, your boat, and your renters are safe and set up for success.

1. Check Your Insurance Coverage

Before you start accepting bookings, review your insurance policy. Not all standard boat owner or homeowner insurance plans cover rentals or charters. Coverage will depend on your provider, so it’s important to contact them directly and confirm whether your policy includes boat rentals. If it doesn’t, ask about adding coverage specifically for charters and rentals.

2. Make Sure Your Boat is Seaworthy

Only safe, well-maintained boats are allowed on Getmyboat. If your boat has been sitting in storage, don’t list it until you’ve done a full inspection and necessary maintenance. This helps protect both you and your renters from accidents or liability issues.

To keep your boat compliant and renter-ready:

  • Stay on top of regular maintenance and inspections.
  • Keep your registration and records up to date.
  • Equip your vessel with all required safety gear under federal and state regulations.

💡 Pro Tip: The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and United States Power Squadrons offer free Vessel Safety Checks. A trained examiner will review your boat’s safety equipment, provide recommendations, and—if you pass—give you a decal to display proudly on your boat.

3. Screen Your Renters

Not every renter will be the right fit for your boat. Before accepting a booking, it’s a good idea to connect with renters to learn more about them. You might:

  • Ask about their boating experience and comfort level with your type of vessel.
  • Verify if they’ve completed boating safety courses or hold licenses (where required).
  • Check their profile and reviews on Getmyboat, or even their social media presence.
  • Decide if you’d like to require a deposit for added security.

For peace of mind, some owners even choose to captain the boat themselves, ensuring the renter enjoys the experience without having to operate the vessel.

4. Use a Rental Agreement & Checklist

Before handing over the keys, protect yourself with a clear rental agreement. Consulting with a legal professional can help you draft documents that cover both you and the renter.

It’s also smart to walk through a pre-rental checklist with the renter:

  • Inspect the boat together.
  • Note any existing scratches, dents, or issues.
  • Document the condition with photos before departure.

This avoids disputes and keeps everything transparent.

5. List Your Boat and Start Earning

Once you’ve covered insurance, safety, and paperwork, your boat is ready to shine on Getmyboat! Create a detailed listing with clear photos, highlight your boat’s best features, and set fair pricing.

With everything in place, you can start connecting with renters, share your love of boating, and earn extra income while your boat is out on the water.

⚓ Final Tip: Renting your boat should be both safe and enjoyable. With the right preparation, you’ll protect yourself, keep renters happy, and maximize your boat’s earning potential.

Happy boating!