Below is a list of the most frequently asked questions. Feel free to reach out to the club if you have any more. We’d be happy to answer them for you.
Most frequently asked questions
What is a boat club?
Carefree Boat Club is a private club. This means that our boats are only available to Members. We do not rent or charter our boats. Our members are the only ones with unlimited access to the fleet and they never pay a fee to use the boats.
Can my significant other use the boat too?
Yes! All plans allow one co-member to be on the plan with you, providing they live in the same household are are at least 25 years old.
Is it truly "unlimited?"
Yes! Members have true unlimited access to all of our boats. Membership plans dictate the frequency of use.
How does the training work?
All members get as much training as they need on and off the water. “On the water” training is done with a certified instructor. Training covers CBC processes, general navigation, docking and safety.
How soon can I get on the water?
New members can typically start boating within days of joining. You can be on the water even sooner if you have previous boat training.
Are all boats well-maintained?
Absolutely. In fact, all of our boats are inspected weekly by the CBC dock staff using a 50-point checklist of safety equipment, hull condition, electronics, and general mechanical items.
Are there other amenities?
Yes. Complimentary use of the pool at the Danversport Marina coded bathrooms with showers and complimentary parking
Are taxes included?
No, taxes are not included.
Do I pay for fuel?
Yes, members are responsible for paying for the fuel they use. Fuel is carefully tracked. If you use 4.7 gallons of gas, that is exactly what you pay to replace.
Can my dog come with me?
Yes, your pets are welcome aboard however pets are limited to your pets.
What if I join and for some reason am not able to come back the following year?
The enrollment fee is a one-time fee to join the club, depending on the Membership you choose. It is good for your lifetime. If you ever leave the club and want to come back (no matter how many years later), you won’t pay the enrollment fee again. You pick up the monthly dues and resume enjoying boating the Carefree way!
How do the annual dues work?
Memberships are annual contracts paid for 12 months. For example, if you join in April, your membership will run from April to the following April.
How is the monthly payment calculated?
Annual member dues are divided into 12 monthly payments.
Is there parking at the marina?
Yes! Complimentary parking at all Massachusetts locations.
Can I just pay for a single season of boating?
Seasonal 6—and 8-Packs do not have an enrollment fee. Usage is limited to 3 or 4 weekday uses and 3 or 4 weekend uses. Reciprocal and Spur-of-the-Moment counts as a reservation. Unused can not be saved for next season. It can be rolled into a regular plan mid-season. Prices/dues are subject to current pricing.
Is it worth the price?
YES! In fact, a membership can cost as little as 1/3 the cost of owning a boat, when you add up all the expenses of ownership: the purchase price, slip fees, insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, towing, winterization, and more.
Questions for Prospective Members
What does a Carefree Boat Club membership include?
Membership provides access to maintained club boats, member training, and a reservation process. The club handles routine maintenance, cleaning, insurance, and storage, so members can focus on time on the water.
Which membership options are available?
Carefree offers membership options designed around different boating habits and access needs. The team can explain current options, including the scheduling and boat access associated with each plan, during a tour or membership conversation.
How can I compare membership options without a posted price list?
Enrollment and ongoing dues vary by membership option, so the club reviews the current choices directly with prospective members rather than publishing a one-size-fits-all figure on this page. The team can explain what each option includes and help you compare the fit for your boating plans.
How do reservations work for members?
Members use the club reservation process to schedule boating time. Availability and booking frequency depend on the membership option and current club policies, and the team will explain the process during onboarding.
How far ahead can I book a boat?
Booking windows and availability depend on membership option, season, location, and current club policies. Ask the team for current details that match your preferred boating schedule.
What boats can I access through the club?
Members access maintained boats available through the Massachusetts club locations, with specific boat access depending on location and membership option. The club can walk you through the current selection during a tour.
Where are the Massachusetts club locations?
The Massachusetts club serves boaters through locations in Boston, Danvers, and Gloucester, supporting members in the Greater Boston, North Shore, and Cape Ann areas. Ask the club about location-specific boating options.
Can I use my membership at other club locations?
Yes. Reciprocal access lets members use participating club locations beyond Massachusetts. 150+ participating club locations worldwide are available through the reciprocal network, subject to local availability, reservation procedures, and applicable club policies.
What training do new members receive?
All members receive the training needed to use boats safely and understand Carefree processes. Training includes on-water instruction with a certified instructor plus general navigation, docking, and safety guidance.
Do experienced boaters still complete training?
Prior experience can help you get comfortable quickly, but members should complete club orientation and any training the club requires before operating a boat. The team will assess your experience and outline the next steps.
Do I need to own a boat to join?
No. Membership provides access to club boats without requiring you to purchase and manage a privately owned boat. The club handles maintenance, cleaning, insurance, and storage.
Who can come boating with me?
You may bring guests in line with current membership and safety policies. Co-member eligibility and household requirements are explained during a membership conversation.
What happens if I need help planning a reservation?
The club team can explain the booking process, location options, and plan rules. Contact the club with questions about a reservation before you finalize your boating plans.
Can I see the boats and facilities before joining?
Yes. Prospective members can book a tour to discuss local facilities, boat access, training, and current membership options before deciding whether the club is a fit.
How do I book a tour?
Use the Carefree contact page to request a tour and speak with the Massachusetts club team about membership options.
What should I ask during a membership tour?
Ask about current options, booking windows, available boats at your preferred location, training, reciprocal access, and next steps. The team can explain the details that matter most for your boating plans.
How do I get started if I am considering membership?
Start by booking a tour. A conversation with the club team is the best way to review current options, ask questions, and plan your next step.
We don't like to brag, but we're changing the game
“The boats are new and top-notch. Each is outfitted with the latest navigational and safety equipment. There are center consoles, side consoles, and pontoon boats, and various configurations are available for those who want to fish, tour and explore, or do water sports.”
Cathy B.Carefree Boat Club Member
“Karen and Eric are great about communicating everything! Speaking of Karen and Eric, the fact that it’s a family-owned business adds a personal touch. They truly care about their members’ experiences, and it shows in the level of service they provide.”
Mia & Dean G.Carefree Boat Club Member
“Carefree Boat Club is totally awesome. All the staff and everybody involved are right on point. I try to rent a boat every week and have never been turned down. This concept of renting a boat is a no-brainer.”
Craig G.Carefree Boat Club Member