The concept started in states like Florida decades ago, but with the developing waterfronts here, boat club owners said it made sense to bring the hassle-free membership to Buffalo.
Published: 9:57 AM EDT April 30, 2021 Updated: 9:57 AM EDT April 30, 2021
NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. A service launching in mid-May will allow Western New Yorkers to enjoy the waterways without buying a boat.
Carefree Boat Club of Buffalo is set to begin service May 15 out of East Pier Marina in North Tonawanda. This is the first Carefree network – which extends across North America and into Central America and Asia – in Western New York.
The service makes a four-boat fleet available for rental to members, according to Ryan Flore, who co-owns the Buffalo club along with Jennifer Flore, Jerika Boulware and Scott Boyer. Members pay an initiation fee and then sign a contract ranging from one to five years. After taking a free boater-safety course, they are then allowed to use a club boat any time one is available; reservations are not required. Depending on the membership level, weekday availability is offered. You can read the full story on Buf