There’s an easy and innovative way to get the benefits of enjoying a boat without the hassle of ownership, reveals Victoria Scarlett, as she talks to Freedom Boat Club UK.
Boating should be fun, straightforward, and life-enhancing, which is just what Freedom Boat Club UK offers. Easy access to the water, without the commitment of ownership…that means no need to worry about maintenance, wintering, services, insurance, cleaning or moorings – the club does all that for you.
Being a Freedom Boat Club member is the choice of the modern activity lover, providing an effortless way to get out boating and maximise leisure time, whilst becoming part of a like-minded and welcoming community. Each club is supported by a friendly, professional team and all members are expertly guided and fully trained, to ensure they go boating safely and with confidence.
Getting out of town, heading to the coast and on the water quickly can be pretty easy. Freedom Boat Club UK has Solent-based clubs at Portsmouth and Hythe, with good travel connections for London and the surrounding areas.
In Portsmouth the club buzzes with enthusiastic members and plenty of hotspots to explore, even within the harbour environs, with Portchester Castle and plenty of naval history. For those looking for retail therapy, Gunwharf Quays shopping complex is a short trip away featuring the iconic Spinnaker Tower. Alternatively, within 30 minutes you can be out onto the Solent with the wind in your hair taking a short hop to the picturesque Isle of Wight.
Located near Southampton, Hythe Marina Village opened in May 2022 and the bright, spacious clubhouse has become a lively hub for members to meet before or after time on Southampton Water. Hythe is a perfect starting point for a trip, with Ocean Village just across the water and the popular boating destinations of Hamble, Calshot and Beaulieu all simply a short trip by boat.
Boating has seen rapid growth in popularity and as it reaches new heights, two new Freedom Boat Club locations have been launched. From Windermere’s world-class lakeside marina encircled by breathtaking scenery, to the English Riviera hub of Torquay, providing access to some spectacular cruising grounds, these destinations further increase possibilities to really maximise the benefits of membership.
Established in September 2022, Freedom Boat Club Windermere is a way for boating devotees to savour the ultimate Lake District experience at the large, self-contained and well-equipped marina, packed with abundant facilities. Exploring the miles of glassy water in comfort and style is a breeze thanks to an impressive fleet, and the clubs’ paddleboards and kayaks add more fun into the mix.
Not just an exceptional boating destination, beautiful Windermere boasts district status as a World Heritage Site, with magnificent walks through the fells and stunning scenery as far as the eye can see. Adding extra appeal, the vibrant coastal town of Bowness nearby offers numerous cultural and foodie delights for all visitors to enjoy.
Opening in Spring 2023, Freedom Boat Club Torquay offers a well-protected boating haven, with access to some of the best facilities in the south west. The ideal base from which to explore the beautiful English Riviera coastline, this fishing and boating destination is ideal for embracing an array of water-based activities, and there is easy access to Paignton and Brixham Harbours as well as Torquay Marina.
The town centre is nearby with shops, restaurants and bars, while miles of sandy beaches, exotic palm trees plus the designated UNESCO Global Geopark prove a big draw. The Torquay clubhouse is set to offer members a relaxed space to meet and socialise, then easily embark on their boating adventures.
Jason Bond, Torquay club manager, says: “We are looking forward to welcoming Freedom Boat Club members to enjoy the charms of Torquay for the 2023 boating season. The protected waters and stunning coastal views provide perfect cruising grounds for all types of leisure boaters, and we’re excited to introduce new and veteran boaters alike to everything Torquay has to offer through the ease and accessibility of Freedom.”
These are exciting times ahead, providing even more opportunities to get on the water with Freedom Boat Club UK. Now that outdoor experiences continue to trend, this is an ideal time for family and friends to discover boating made simple and embrace all that the nautical Iifestyle brings.
INTERESTED? YOU SHOULD BE!
Becoming a member is simple, with one membership payment then a monthly fee, and the only other cost being fuel used when handing the boat back. All members receive full training (RYA Powerboat Level 2) to be completely confident in operating and navigating.
One huge benefit is the reciprocal access to 350+ global Freedom Boat Club locations, from the USA to Canada, Spain to France – members can combine holidays with the chance to go boating. Membership gives those new to the boating scene a chance to sample the marine lifestyle, while traditional boaters with prior experience can enjoy a no-strings-attached approach.
Whether planning a family picnic, soaking up the scenery or indulging in a fishing expedition, there really is something for everyone.
WHY FREEDOM?
As the oldest and largest membership boat club globally, Freedom offers over 30 years of trusted experience to members whilst providing access to the water in the most affordable way, with no hidden costs or added extras. Time is a precious commodity and for those looking to maximise their downtime there is no greater way to spend it than boating together.
The economic demands of personal boat ownership are totally different, so Freedom delivers a manageable way to knowingly commit to a fun leisure pursuit that can be fully tailored within a member’s lifestyle. With an ethos to make boating simple, this defines exactly what Freedom Boat Club delivers to their members.
For more ‘Try it Now’ features, head to our Coastal Activities section or pick up a copy of Coast!
