Boat rental app helps you get on the water

GALVESTON, TX (KTRK) -- Lots of people enjoying spending time on the water, but don't want the expense and upkeep of owning a boat. Now there's an app for that.

Get My Boat is a boat-sharing service, much like AirBnb or Uber. Users can either post their own boats to rent out or find a boat to rent by the hour.

The Galveston boat rental company Caribbean Breeze posts their fleet on the app, and the general manager says business has picked up now that the app is gaining steam.

"We get reservations from get my boat every week," Caribbean Breeze general manager John Wilson said. "We've got a fleet of about 14."

Caribbean breeze offers everything from kayaks to pontoon party boats, to fishing charters and jet skis. They will even take you out parasailing, and these can all be booked at your fingertips via GetMyBoat.

His location is just one of 3,300 worldwide where users can get any kind of boat they want on any given day. Each boat owner or boat rental company sets their own price, and the app's GPS location services allow you to find the best deal nearest you.

If you aren't an experienced captain but still want to get out on the water, Get My Boat can set your group up with a guide. Or many boat owners offer instructional courses before you take the boat out.

"Lots of people want our fishing guides to take them out. That would include our own gear tackle, bait, boat and fuel, as well as experienced local captain," Wilson said.

This takes the headaches and the hassle out of owning your own boat, for a fraction of the price. The average boat owner only uses their boat 8 percent of the year, so this is a way to make sure you're getting what you pay for.

"Here it's as short as a 2 hour boat rental for $160. You come and go you're done. There's no membership fees or upfront charges. With a reservation you know you are going to have that boat available," Wilson said.

To learn more about GetMyBoat, visit their website.