Let the water, waves and wind work their magic. Take your partner boating. Being on the water is the very best way to convince your family to become boaties. Follow our tips for converting your “significant other”!

Getting the Conversion Started

Here are some tips and tricks for broaching the subject of boating with your partner (and getting them to listen):

Boating is family friendly.

• There’s no age limit! Boating offers activities for all ages
• It gets the kids away from the computer, TV and video games
• Fresh salt air is good for you
• Time spent on a boat is quality time – the kind memories are made of!
• It’s educational! Kids can learn about nature, navigation and communication
• Teaches lessons in teamwork and responsibility

Boating reduces stress

• Boating facilitates easy ‘weekend escapes
• Fresh air and sunshine never made anyone feel bad
• One place where making waves is actually fun
• No phones. No computers. No boardroom meetings. No traffic.
• You call the shots – after all, you’re the captain!

Boating is FUN!

There is a limitless list of ways to have fun on a boat:

• Fishing
• Tubing
• Cruising
• Wakeboarding and water skiing
• Exploring nature
• Enjoying time with family and friends
• Relaxing
• Swimming
• Exploring
• Diving
• Snorkelling

Making a Convincing Argument

Convincing your other half can often be the most difficult – not to mention daunting – part of the purchase process when buying a boat. The key to ensuring your partner jumps on board (literally) with the idea is by highlighting the array of the lifestyle, health and family benefits boats offer. To help you get out on the water, we’ve developed three key discussion points to aid with convincing your spouse. With this information up your sleeve, securing their buy-in will be a breeze.

Key reason #1: Boating is about Family

Work… School… Afterschool lessons…. Weekend sports… Does this sound familiar? In today’s busy world it can often feel as though your family is being pulled in a million different directions all at the same time. Loosen the strain by bringing everyone together with a boat.

Time spent on a boat is quality time. Whether fishing, swimming, tubing or just cruising, the time you spent with family and friends on a boat is always fun and memorable. Out on the water there are no distractions. You can focus on each other. You can have conversations. Share stories. Laugh. Reconnect and create memories that will last a lifetime. Life really is better on a boat.

Key reason #2: Boating Let’s You Relax

Relaxing is easy on a boat. Away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, there are no computers, video games, faxes (and sometimes no cell phone reception) to disrupt you. With open water, fresh air and the warm sun to enjoy, boating gives you a sense of freedom and adventure that can’t be found anywhere else.

You’re the captain when you buy your own boat. The only rules are the ones you make. Boating allows you to find the freedom to set your own pace and be your best.

Key reason #3: You’ll never catch your limit of fun

You’ll never catch your limit of boating fun with a boat. There are always new places to explore, bigger fish to catch, friends to be found and new memories to be made. Reeling in the big one, catching a wave off the board or admiring the beautiful New Zealand coastline and scenery – the list of things to do and see is endless! After a full day of boating fun on the water it’s easy to remember why it’s called the ‘great outdoors’.

Handy Tips from Other Boating Families

Tip #1 – Stop by a boat show

Boat shows are a great place to introduce your other half to the world of boating. Not only do you get a chance to discuss your boating needs with industry experts, it’s a great chance to ask questions about owning and operating. The latest gear and trends are also showcased at boat shows, while free demos and boat rides allow you to experience things hands-on.

Tip #2 – Enjoy dinner… on the water

Nothing says ‘romance’ like a delicious dinner or picnic on a boat. Treat your partner to a lunch or dinner cruise! It’s a great opportunity for them to find their sea-legs while enjoying a wonderful meal with beautiful scenery!

Tip #3 – A boat is a great place for a family picnic

Take the family out for a day of fun and food on a boat! Dining is an integral part of the boating experience for many families. Even modest boats have room to accommodate for family mealtimes. Many new boats come equipped with built-in coolers, refrigeration systems or full galleys – perfect for quality family dinners!