High Gas Prices Affecting Boaters

Sky high gas prices make getting to work a pain and they may even put a damper on your summer fun too! Chances are, youve cringed after seeing what it costs to fill up the tank. As the national average for a gallon of regular unleaded hovers around the 4 dollar mark and families downsize their summer travel plans, *another* leisure activity may be taking a hit, too. The two best days in a boat owners life, the day he buys it and the day he sells it. That punch line may be as true now as its ever been, with gas prices putting the squeeze on weekend captains. Boater Brian Klamer says, "I bought the boat because I wanted to spend time together with my family, without having to take long trips away from home." Klamers 2001 boat purchase was about fun first, but it was also a chance to do some family bonding on a budget. "It was cheaper than driving out of town and staying at the mariott." Weekend trips to Patoka Lake, or the Ohio River, mean hitching up the Four Winns to his Chevy Blazer, and filling both tanks. The boat, by the way, runs on premium fuel, selling for about $4.16 a gallon right now. The price of one of those inexpensive, close to home weekends for the summer of 2008? "Approaching the $200 mark in fuel for one days use." That doesnt include any add ons, like food and drinks. At that price, the weekends really add up fast. The American Boating Association doesnt expect current gas prices to compel many boat owners to dry dock, most have the disposable income to keep operating. Klamer says hell keep boating, but not like he used to. "So I can eliminate my 11 mile per gallon towing, Im gonna keep the boat in Lyon county this summer." Storing right next to Kentucky Lake will make boating much more economical, for now, he has no plans to sell. Experienced boaters recommend filling up your tank at a gas station on land, before you get to the water. Marina gas prices can be even higher than what youre paying for your car.