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Founded in 1966 after a troubling incident on the Chesapeake Bay revealed dangerous gaps in boat manufacturing safety standards, BoatUS has grown into America's premier advocate for recreational boaters. With over 740,000 members nationwide, this organization stands apart by exclusively representing boat owners' interests—not manufacturers or dealers—at both state and federal levels.

At its core, BoatUS operates as a three-pronged powerhouse: advocating for boaters' rights, promoting safety through education, and providing crucial on-water services. The most visible of these services is their network of over 600 red towboats stationed at more than 300 locations nationwide, responding to approximately 113,000 assistance calls annually. For members with towing plans, these services come without the shocking out-of-pocket expenses that can otherwise approach $1,000 per incident.

Membership begins at just $25 annually, providing access to BoatUS Magazine, free MMSI number registration for VHF radios, and valuable discounts at marine businesses nationwide. For boaters seeking greater protection, towing plans range from $109 for freshwater to $175 for saltwater coverage, with specialized options like Unlimited Gold ($215) for dock-to-repair facility transport and Trailer Assist ($15) for roadside coverage specifically designed for boat trailers. Since joining GEICO in 2015, members can now bundle boat insurance with towing endorsements at significantly reduced rates.

The organization's commitment to safety education stands on sobering statistics: where instruction is known, 69% of boating fatalities occur on vessels operated by individuals without formal safety training. To address this, BoatUS offers the only free online boating safety course recognized in 37 states, along with specialized courses like their new SCAN method for improving situational awareness. Whether you're a weekend angler, serious cruiser, or paddle craft enthusiast, BoatUS provides the resources, representation, and peace of mind that make your time on the water safer and more enjoyable. Visit BoatUS.org to access free safety courses or BoatUS.com to explore membership options that fit your boating lifestyle.