Boating has always been about adventure, relaxation, and escaping the daily grind. But for many, access to a boat has been out of reach. Michael Farb, CEO of Boatsetter, is changing that, turning boat rentals into a seamless experience that benefits both owners and renters. By creating a platform that connects people to boats just as easily as booking a vacation rental or ride-share, Boatsetter is opening up new opportunities for exploration and leisure on the water.
A Smarter Way to Get on the Water
Boatsetter works like Airbnb for boats, connecting owners with people looking to rent. With over 50,000 boats in 700 locations worldwide, it’s removing barriers and making boating as easy as booking a hotel. The platform also offers a network of US Coast Guard-certified captains, so anyone can enjoy the water without needing experience.
This accessibility is a game-changer. Why? Because many people love the idea of being on the water but are deterred by the responsibilities of boat ownership, such as maintenance, storage, insurance, and the knowledge required to operate a vessel safely. Boatsetter removes those barriers, making it simple for anyone to enjoy a day at sea without the long-term commitment.
Why Boating Feels Different
Boating isn’t just about getting from point A to B. It’s about the experience. Being on the water creates a sense of freedom and adventure that’s hard to find elsewhere. The open water offers an escape from the routines of daily life, and it naturally fosters social connection. Unlike cars, which we drive for necessity, boats are about leisure and exploration. There’s something inherently exciting about setting off without a fixed path, discovering new shorelines, hidden beaches, and marine life along the way.
This love for boating surged after the pandemic, when people sought new ways to spend time outdoors. Travel patterns shifted, with more people prioritizing experiences over traditional sightseeing. Boatsetter’s platform was well-positioned to ride that wave, offering a way for people to reconnect with nature, embrace adventure, and safely enjoy time with family and friends in open, uncrowded spaces.
Destinations People Overlook
While places like Miami and the Caribbean get plenty of attention, Boatsetter has helped uncover hidden gems. Catalina Island, just off the Southern California coast, offers a quiet retreat perfect for snorkeling, sunbathing, and hiking. It’s a prime boating destination that many outside the area don’t even know about. Visitors can explore the island’s hidden coves, spot wildlife, or simply relax away from the crowded mainland.
Internationally, Cabo San Lucas is a hotspot for big-game fishing, where anglers can reel in massive marlins just a few miles offshore. The demand for fishing charters through Boatsetter has been soaring, as more people discover that deep-sea fishing isn’t just for seasoned pros.
Boating is for Everyone
There’s a perception that boating is a male-dominated activity, but Boatsetter’s numbers tell a different story. Women now make up half of its customer base, both as renters and boat owners. Many are also using the platform to turn their boats into income-generating businesses, some even building fleets.
This shift is redefining who participates in boating culture. Women are not just renting boats for leisure. They are leading businesses, captaining vessels, and tapping into the economic opportunities the platform provides. Female captains are also becoming more common, proving that boating isn’t limited by outdated stereotypes.
A Safer Way to Rent
Peer-to-peer rentals come with risks, but Boatsetter has built safeguards to make the process secure. It created the first and only insurance policy designed for boat rentals, covering owners, renters, and captains. Owners can also require a captain, reducing risk and ensuring smooth trips.
This level of security is essential in making boating accessible to more people. The complexities of insurance, liability, and operational safety have traditionally made boat rentals a complicated process. By addressing these concerns head-on, Boatsetter has eliminated much of the friction.
A Business Opportunity for Owners
Most boats sit unused for most of the year. Boatsetter changes that, letting owners list their boats and earn money instead of letting them collect dust. Some have turned it into a full-time business, making millions through the platform.
For owners, Boatsetter provides a way to offset the high costs of boat ownership. Maintenance, docking fees, and insurance can add up, but by listing their boats for rent, owners can turn their idle assets into revenue streams. Some have taken it even further, expanding their fleets and creating small businesses centered around on-the-water experiences.
What’s Next for Boatsetter?
Farb sees more opportunities ahead, including expanding insurance solutions and enhancing captain services. The platform is constantly evolving to make boat rentals even easier and more reliable. One of the biggest innovations on the horizon is a streamlined insurance policy that allows owners to use the same coverage for both personal use and rentals, simplifying the process and reducing costs.
Another area of growth is captain services. While most rentals currently include an option for a captain, Boatsetter is exploring ways to expand access to captains for private boat owners who may want professional assistance for their personal outings. This could be big for owners who want the perks of boating without always having to take the helm themselves.
With millions already using the platform, Boatsetter is positioned to make boating more accessible, more profitable for owners, and easier than ever for people who just want to get out on the water. The boating industry is shifting, and Boatsetter is the frontrunner, proving that anyone can enjoy the water — whether they own a boat or not.
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