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Anchor - The New “Uber” for Boating

Have you ever thought that it might be nice to use your pontoon boat as a source of income like those ride-share services on land? Well, your dream is now becoming reality with the new Anchor App.

Launched in the summer of 2017 out of Lake of the Ozarks in mid-Missouri, Anchor provides a boat-on-demand service on waterways. So, if someone needs to get from one dock to another across the lake, they can essentially charter a water taxi to get there, and the driver could be you.

Passengers can request you take them straight to their destination or, if you’re willing, you can stop for them to swim a bit, or take a joy ride on the water. The idea is, first and foremost, water safety. Some lake tourists have no idea how to navigate the waters that you’re accustomed to, so this gives them the opportunity to rent a boat but still be safe, and for you to make a little money just being out on the water.

You can sign up to be a driver on the Anchor website; you need a valid driver’s license and, well, a boat. Depending on the laws in your area, you may also need a boater’s license, but that’s something you should already have if it’s required in your state. Since the app and program are relatively new, you may be one of the first to help launch it in your waterways!

You determine how available you want to be for passengers. You decide when you’re “working” simply by turning on the app and logging in, and logging out when you’re done for the day. You make your own hours. 

Why not make some extra bucks while getting more time on the water? If you like meeting new people, it’s a win-win!

Boatels - A New Level of Boat Storage

When you’re lucky enough to own a boat, you’ll store it wherever you can, be it dock or marina, garage or driveway, or even backyard. But there’s a fairly new player in the boat storage game you may not have heard of that many boat owners love - boatels.

These full service indoor storage units are located near the water and can typically store dozens to hundreds of boats of all sizes in a secure facility.

Protect your Investment

Indoor storage protects your boat from unnecessary exposure to the elements. This cuts down on wear and tear from the wind and the sun, and from water damage to the hull if your boat is stored in the water. It also helps keep your boat clean, so that when you’re ready to take it out on the water, you won’t have to waste precious time removing leaves, bugs and other debris first.

Enjoy the Amenities

Boatels typically offer convenience and amenities to boat owners that typical boat docks and other boat storage solutions don’t. Call ahead - often with little notice - and the boatel will pull your boat from storage and load it into the water for you. If the boatel has concierge service, they may fill the gas tank and have a cooler full of ice in your boat waiting for you upon arrival.

After you’ve enjoyed a day of fishing or fun, boatel staff will remove your boat from the water, dry the hull, attach the cover and return it to the dry, secure storage facility. It’s as easy as that!

Many boatels also offer full service marinas, so you can purchase everything you need including bait, snacks, sunscreen, drinks, and more. Boatels really are the new wave of boat storage for boat owners who are looking not just for convenience, but to protect their investments.

#PontoonPets Make Summer Fun | Pontoon-Depot

(top pic) Here’s Major, enjoying a day on the water.

Our pets are members of the family. Where we go, we want them to go - especially when we’re enjoying a day on the water in the pontoon. Take your pets with you this summer, post your photos online and tag them with #PontoonPets - or post your favorite shots from years past. Either way, we can’t wait to see them!

Check out some of these photos we’ve already received!

 And here’s Percy, navigating.

 This was Baby’s first ride on a pontoon! Isn’t Big Bear Lake California beautiful?

 This is Delilah, enjoying her ride around the water.

While you’re out on the water and capturing some great #PontoonPets pics, be sure to keep your pet safe. After all, boating with a pet isn’t much different than boating with a small child. You’ll want to take extra steps to make sure they’re secure and not becoming dehydrated or seasick.

Consider purchasing a life jacket for your pet. Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs like water - and even individual dogs of water-loving breeds may not enjoy swimming, or take to it quickly. A life jacket will help your dog relax, and give you peace of mind.

Be sure to bring plenty of water for your pet - and a bowl for him or her to drink from. It can be hot out there on the water, and your pet will need plenty to drink. But remember - what goes in must come out. Your pet will need opportunities to relieve himself, too.

Did you know your pet can get sunburned? It’s true! A minimum SPF 15 sunscreen applied to sensitive areas like your dog’s belly, nose and the interior of the ears can offer protection. Just make sure he or she doesn’t lick it off. And if your pontoon has a bimini top, be sure to raise it so your dog has a shady area to rest in.

Finally, bring along some of your dog’s favorite treats, and maybe a favorite blanket or other comfort item. This will help your dog have a great day out on the water. Because let’s face it - if your pet’s happy, you’re happy. So have fun out there and remember - tag us in those great photos with #PontoonPets!

Boating - It’s Good for Your Soul | Pontoon-Depot

You already know you love spending time on the water. Whether you like it calm and peaceful or thrilling and exciting, the joy you, your family and your friends get from boating is undeniable. But if you’re looking for even more reasons to take the boat out - or maybe you need to convince someone else about the benefits of life on the water - read on!

1. It’s a chance to unplug. These days, we’re always connected - social media, text messages, online videos and more. Day to day, we don’t realize how much this contributes to our stress and anxiety. But when you’re on a boat ride it’s a great excuse to disconnect from technology - and reconnect with the world around you.

2. It’s a bonding experience. If you’re lucky, you have amazing memories from your childhood of boating with your family. Boating now - fishing, cruising, skiing, swimming - is a great way to build those same memories with your own family and friends.

3. It’s a great way to learn new things. Explore new experiences - try a watersport you’ve never tried. Kneeboarding, tubing and skiing are fun! Try a new type of fishing. Spend a night out on the water. With boating, the possibilities are endless.

4. It’s healthy! Being in the sun is actually good for you. Yes, you still need to use sunscreen. But some sun exposure allows your body to soak up healthy vitamin D that you need. Plus, being around water is relaxing and can help lower anxiety - studies have proven it!

5. It’s a social activity. Boaters are a community. If you have a boat, you probably have friends who have boats, too. It’s not uncommon for everyone to go out together to fish, ski, or find a quiet cove to hang out and swim. Plus, boaters help each other, and share tips and tricks. If you like people, boating is for you.