I keep getting stuff in the mail from Boat US trying to get me to be a member.

My boat only gets used on Lake Norman. At least for this coming summer anyway.

Good idea? Waste of $149?

Anyone know what the local guy is like on Lake Norman? I've heard the horror stories of these operators (in other places)claiming salvage if they throw you a rope because you were broke down and floating in the main channel.

I know there are a few azzholes in every business that ruin it for everybody, so wondering what the local guy was like.

Just wondering if its a good idea if something stupid happens and I'm on the water with the kid in the boat. Gotta try to make sure the family is safe.

The old lady can swim to shore, but the kid might struggle a bit

Opinions?

BoatU.S. also has an inland towing only option that is less expensive.

I had to use my Boat US membership for the first time on Thanksgiving. We were in Hilton Head, SC and between my pizz poor planning, and overlooking the fact that most gas docks would be closed (DUH!) we ran out of fuel 200' from the marina. Couldn't get anyone to throw us a line, so I call boat US. He brought us 15 Gallons of gas, (cheapest gas I bought all week!) and we were on our way quickly. No charge, other than the gas.

A few weeks later, Boat US sent a survey with the invoice they 'paid' for the service. Since it was a holiday, at night, the charge was over $600. All i paid for was the gas.

Best $149 I spend each year. It's priceless if you ever need it...

I wouldn't leave the dock without it! I've had nothing but excellent experiences with Boat-U.S.

Same responses as above, wouldnt leave the dock without a towing contract. Had to use it once, would have been about $500, with the service a $20 tip covered me. The inland service should be much cheaper.

Artie, why didn't you swim it the 200'

It was a bit cold and dark for that! If it had been July, I would have had anchorline in hand, and swam to the dock. I have never been so frustrated in my life. All the A$$hats at Harbortown refused to help, but that's a story for another time.

Thanks guys, really appreciate all the responses. Looks like I'm about to become a Boat US member.

And thanks to Artie, I now know gas is hard to find on Thanksgiving

Don;t forget, there are also many other benefits you may be able to take advantage of. 10 cents off per gallon at select marinas, transient docking discounts, etc...

I've been a Boat U.S. member since '94. You get a discount at West Marine stores too.