Dewitt Marine Boat Club logo in front of splashing water and a black boat on the right side.

Boat Club in Northern Michigan Near Traverse City


Dewitt Maine is excited to introduce a new service to you: our exclusive Boat Club! Boat club offers members access to a "club only" fleet of new, premium boats without the traditional boat ownership expenses and hassles. Industry wide shortages and high demand are continuing to make boat ownership more difficult and more expensive. Reserve your spot in the Boat Club today and don't be left high and dry this spring.  

Boat Club Benefits:

"Club only" private fleet of boats that are no more than 2 years old
Use of paddleboards - based on availability
No insurance policy 
No maintenance 
No-slip fee
No storage fee
Boating & safety & instructional classes
Social events & seminars
Pet-friendly
10% off fuel at the Clam Shack
Discounts to golf at Shanty Creek
Captain services available
Concierge services available

Gold Membership

7 days a week
Book 3 advance reservations up to 9 months in advance
Plus, take advantage of spur-of-the-moment and day-of reservations based on a first-come, first-serve availability

Silver Membership  

Monday through Thursday*
Book 2 advance reservations up to 6 months in advance
Plus, take advantage of spur-of-the-moment and day-of reservations based on a first-come, first-serve availability

Bronze Membership*  

7 days a week
Book 1 advance reservations up to 3 months in advance
Plus, take advantage of spur-of-the-moment and day-of reservations based on a first-come, first-serve availability
*Additional stipulations and limited to previously used fleet only
Private Fleet 

Bennington® Tritoons
Three different Bennington® boats of varying colors with families riding them through the water.8 or more Bennington tritoons to be annouced shortly for the 2023 season.
 

Investment Comparison
Investment comparison chart between Dewitt Marine Boat Club Gold Membership vs. ownership of a new boat values at $60,000+tax, freight/prep/doc fee, 120 month loan with 15% down at 6.99%
  Boat Club Gold Membership Year One Ownership Year One Boat Club Gold Membership Year Two Ownership Year Two
Intitial Fee/Down Payment $4,999 $9,000 $0 $0
Price(Per Month) $299 $660 $299 $660
Winter Storage $0 $900 $0 $900
Insurance $0 $450 $0 $450
Maintenance(Summer/Winter) $0 $650 $0 $650
Total Investment $8,587 $18,920 $3,588 $9,920

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can anyone become a member?

Members must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid driver’s license, and pass an MVR (motor vehicle report). All members must pass a brief safety course before taking out any of the boats.

How do I become a member?

The enrollment process starts with a visit to Dewitt Marine and a tour of the boats. Call or text our office at 231.377.6611 and speak to a Dewitt Marine Boat Club representative for a no-hassle consultation. Email is also welcomed at boatclub@dewittmarine.com

How do I reserve a boat?

Members can make reservations 24 hours a day, seven days a week from any device with internet access, or directly from our reservation app on your smartphone. 

Can I make a last-minute decision to use a boat?

Absolutely! As long as a boat is available giving us 1-hour notice, then you can take a boat out at your whim.
Is there a limit to how many times I can reserve a boat?
Our Boat Club membership is unlimited use, availability permitting.

How do I know boats will be available?

The industry standard has most boat clubs running at a 10-to-1 member-to-boat ratio. At Dewitt Marine, we run a much tighter ratio of 8-to-1, which gives you more time on the water. 

How long can I stay out on the water?

Reservations are for morning, afternoon or all day.  Members can arrange for a longer duration with our Boat Club management staff. 

Is there a charge for canceling a reservation?

Generally, no, however, cancellation of reservations shall be subject to a cancellation fee from time to time. Members who misuse or abuse the reservation privileges may have their membership privileges revoked by Dewitt Marine Boat Club. 

How much does it cost?

The price to be a member of Dewitt Marine’s Boat Club is substantially less than the average cost of owning a boat! As a member, you can avoid such annual fees and costs, such as general annual maintenance ($650+) storage ($900+) slip ($2,500), and In-and-Out service ($2,100).

Who cleans and maintains the boats?

All Boat Club boats are professionally maintained and repaired by certified marine technicians. Additionally, each vessel is thoroughly cleaned and inspected so it will be ready for you to enjoy.  

Do you have additional equipment available?

Yes! We offer unlimited use of coast guard-rated life vests and paddleboards for our members.

Is the insurance covered by the Club?

Yes! Our insurance policy is specifically aligned with our business and covers major damage and liability. You are only responsible for the deductible.

Can I bring guests?

Yes! You can bring as many guests as the boat capacity allows.

Can my guests use the club boats without me being there?

No, but they will continue to be your friend as long as you are the boat captain!

Are there any hidden fees or surprises I should know about?

No. You pay for the gas that you use.  If you damage the boat, you will be responsible for the damages.  Cleaning fees may also apply depending on the return condition of the boat. 

Who fuels the boat?

Members are responsible for fueling the boat up before they return it. If Boat Club staff has to fuel your boat you will be charged a separate fee. 

Do I need to be an experienced captain to join the club?

No prior experience is necessary or required. We will coach you, train you, and empower you to enjoy boating as much as we do. 

How long does my membership last?

Once you pay your membership fee, you are considered a member in good standing. If you elect to upgrade from one membership plan level to another, you will only pay the difference.  Memberships last for a full calendar year and automatically renews. 

How hard is it to get boat reservations on the weekends? 

We recommend making reservations for weekend days 2 to 3 weeks in advance in the Spring & Summer, 1-2 weeks in the Fall & Winter. We strongly suggest taking advantage of our 3-month advance reservations policy for special events such as holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, etc.
 

May I join with my friend/partner/sibling/parent/etc?

Spouses/Partners are included free of charge. Business associates, friends, siblings, and children are not included. We do offer a "Buddy" membership where you can add a user at reduced rates.
 

What size boats do I have access to?

Our current fleet of boats ranges from 20'-25'.
Access to 8 Bennington tritoons ranging from 19' to 26' with a variety of layouts and horsepower.
All of our boats are one to two years in age.
We encourage you to stop by anytime to see the quality of our boats firsthand.

 

Do you have membership social events?

Yes! BBQs, live music, and local spirit tasting parties will be hosted throughout the season.
 

Will my dues increase from year to year?

Your due amount is locked in for the term (1 year) of your membership. Your membership automatically renews and if there are any rate adjustments you will be notified.