Frequently Asked Questions to Help You Decide.
WHAT IS THE AMERICA SAILING CLUB?
The Club is an organization of boat owners and non-boat owners. The Club employs a unique concept of boat sharing similar to that of a flying club. FSCC was started in 1973 as South Florida Sailing Association and is now called America Sailing Club.
The Club expanded in 1984 to encompass all of Florida and the name was changed to Florida Sailing Charter Club to reflect the expansion. In 1986, the Gold Coast Sailing Club of Fort Lauderdale was purchased and it's members became part of Florida Sailing Charter Club. In 1987 the Club began expansion to additional stateside locations.
In January 2009 Howard Huntsberry passed away, some members were aware of this and offered many condolences. The new owner, Jay Hafner, has established the America Sailing Club to include and benefit all the Ports of Call.
The organization enjoys a long and excellent record of service to its members. The fleet consists of sailboats ranging in size from 22 to 52 feet.
HOW DOES THE CLUB OPERATE?
The Club coordinates a network of sailing opportunities for members at rates substantially below commercial rates. Most of the boats are privately owned but several commercial charter fleets also provide discounted rates for our members. The America Sailing Club has established reciprocity agreements with other clubs in areas not represented by ASC. The Club also coordinates group sailing and other social activities that provide opportunities to meet new people and entertain your guests.
The boats are docked at a variety of locations in each cruising area. Most are maintained by their owners who take pride in their condition. Once you are a qualified regular member, you simply call the Club to reserve a boat for a morning, an afternoon, an evening, or any combination. You may even take a boat overnight or for several days, all without reserving way in advance or paying a deposit. Your call is received at our central scheduling office where a friendly, familiar voice who knows your needs and capabilities will help you arrange your reservation, whether it is for a day sail or a weeks cruise.
HOW CAN THE CLUB BENEFIT ME? I DON'T OWN A BOAT.
A non-boat owning member who sails only a few times a year can expect to save more than 80% of what it would cost to privately own a boat. Just think - that's 1/5 the cost of owning!
Plus, your cost is controllable, you spend money for sailing only when you want to sail. There are no bills for unplanned repairs or maintenance costs. In addition, your cost for damages is limited to $300.
As a member of the America Sailing Club, you will have a great deal of flexibility. You can use a boat from any location in any state. You will find that you use the boats as you would your own, for long or short periods of time, to sail where you want. All this without having to contend with the time consuming hassle of boat maintenance. If you are in the market for a boat, the Club affords you the opportunity to experiment with boats of assorted sizes, with varied rigging, and with different types of engines.
When it comes time to make that costly decision you will be more secure that you are purchasing what suits you best. The Club has established reciprocities with other sailing clubs within the U.S. You can also obtain discounts in charter fleets in the Islands. As a member you will have the chance to meet other sailors at the Club's group social activities. These activities range from evening and day sailing trips to multi-day cruises.
Most of all you will have the opportunity to relax and enjoy your favorite boating activities, knowing you are getting the most convenience and value for your money.
HOW CAN THE CLUB BENEFIT ME? I OWN A BOAT.
On the other hand, if you presently own a boat or have already decided that boat ownership is your cup of tea, ASC provides a means to help you defray your costs.
Tax advantages can probably be obtained. Each case is different, so please consult your accountant.
Boat owning members of the Club pay no initiation fee and $275 in annual dues and receive 70% of the rental fees shown on the boat list. This income helps to offset the high costs of ownership. When there have been two consecutive years of boat rental, from your boat, your annual membership dues will be reduced to $50 annually.
The America Sailing Club has established an insurance deductible pool that will reimburse the owner for the first $1,500 of damage caused by a member. The pool is funded by charging a small fee to the member for each day they charter. However, a review of claims submitted to our insurance company over the last 10 years reveals that 85% of damage occurs when the owner is aboard, so owners are not covered by the deductible pool. The Club maintains a fleet insurance program. Each boat owner may purchase a policy within this program directly from our insurance agent. Full coverage and liability only coverage are available. Each boat owner may purchase a policy within this program.
Boat owners are full members of the Club and as such may charter Club boats in any location. They are included in the Club's many group social events. All this and your boat is under your control and still available for your personal use when you wish.
The Club can provide full management for your boat if your circumstances require it. Consult the Club office for details.
The Club has established a social membership which allows the member to participate in all group Club activities. The group sails and other social events are announced in our newsletter. All you have to do is call the Club and reserve space. You may bring guests on most social events.
HOW CAN I CALCULATE THE COST OF BOAT OWNERSHIP
VERSUS THE COST OF USING CLUB BOATS
If you need more convincing that the America Sailing Club with Florida Sailing Charter Club is the answer to your boating needs, here is one last thought. Most Club members split the cost of the boat with the friends they invite. The friends find it perfectly reasonable since they know the member is renting the boat. However, try asking these same friends to share your loan payment or monthly dockage fees if you owned the boat! Not a chance! And, since you are entertaining on your private yacht, they may often assume you are providing the beverages.
We have provided you with a comparison to help you figure the costs of boat ownership:
COST IF YOU OWNED A TYPICAL USED 32 FOOT SAILBOAT VALUED
AT $45,000 AND SAILED IT AN AVERAGE OF ONCE OR TWICE A MONTH.
VS COST PER USE IN THE SAILING CHARTER CLUB
ASC and FSCC SHOULD BE YOUR ECONOMIC CHOICE !
Make the most of your precious leisure hours.
FAQ Questions