Does anyone have any recommendations as which company is better. Have a 26ft Hunter on a trailer. Thanks!
Sea Tow vs Boat US
- Thread starter gatorgirl
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I have had both and I prefer Boat US. I have multiple boats and the all in one coverage was the reason I switched from Sea Tow. I hear they now offer the same deal, so it may be a toss up. But the customer service from Boat US has been great, and you can't beat a discount on fuel and dockage at participating marinas. Boat US also lobbies hard for boaters rights.
Go Gators!:dance:
Go Gators!:dance:
It depends on the area. Check for number of affiliates each company may have in your sailing area. We use Boat US and are very happy with the service. We picked up a lobster trap in the wee hours of the morning off the coast of Ft Myers. At daybreak having cut the line we approached the entry channel but called in for a tow as we could not make it with the wind on the nose. As we explained our predicament they asked us to anchor outside the pass and they would send a diver. Within the hour we were continuing our trip at an additional cost of $0.00 besides the tip we gave the diver. Now that is service. I recommend you get the unlimited coverage. It means you will not be limited by the number of times you need to use the service.
Having worked for Sea Tow, and having been covered by Boat US for about ten years, all things being equal the two companies are equal.
As Benny said, check out "Availablity" in your cruising area.
As Benny said, check out "Availablity" in your cruising area.
Agree have used both and they are equal. Service depends more on the tow captain than any other factor. Check which one is closer to you as charges can depend on distance to get to and from your boat. I use an insurance rider instead of buying a towing service package. This has worked well for me and saves money year to year.
Different Business Model
The local Sea Tow operator makes their money on memberships. it is not unusuall for them to troll around looking for boats needing tows and signing them up.
The local Tow Boat franchise makes money on the tow not the membership.
An example where you'll see the difference is you have a soft grounding prior to high tide. Call Sea Tow they may ask you to wait for high tide then come out to get you. Tow boat will only make money if they come out to and they will be on the way before you hang up the phone.
The local Sea Tow operator makes their money on memberships. it is not unusuall for them to troll around looking for boats needing tows and signing them up.
The local Tow Boat franchise makes money on the tow not the membership.
An example where you'll see the difference is you have a soft grounding prior to high tide. Call Sea Tow they may ask you to wait for high tide then come out to get you. Tow boat will only make money if they come out to and they will be on the way before you hang up the phone.
As a former West Marine associate my loyalty lies with BoatUS (did you know it stands for 'Boat Owners Association of The United States'?). Best of all BoatUS membership gets you increased discount points at WM stores. I have seen hundreds of people use those 'rebate' coupons to good effect so I know it's not just a sales gimmick.
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