Safety is Lakeside Watersports #1 Priority
Candlewood Lake is a premier destination for boating and watersports in Connecticut, attracting families, friends, and adventure-seekers every summer. Renting a boat is one of the best ways to experience the lake, but before you book your next outing, it’s crucial to ensure you’re renting from a legitimate boating company.
At Lakeside Watersports and Echo Bay Marina, we’ve seen firsthand the risks and problems associated with renting boats from non-legit companies. Here’s why it matters—and why you should always choose a reputable provider.
1. Safety Comes First
Non-legit boating companies often cut corners when it comes to safety.
• No Proper Maintenance: Boats may not be inspected regularly, increasing the risk of mechanical failures. Echo Bay Marina has one of the best service departments in the North East, and definitely in Connecticut.
• Lack of Safety Gear: They might not provide required safety equipment like life jackets, fire extinguishers, or distress signals. Huge part of Safe Boating on Candlewood Lake, CT.
• Untrained Staff: Non-legit companies rarely have certified staff to instruct renters on safe boating practices or lake rules. No one compares to the Certified Boat Instructors and First Aid & CPR staff of Lakeside Watersports. All of our staff go through our rigorous training which can be found at Lakeside Watersports Courses.
Lakeside and Echo Bay Advantage:
We ensure all boats are maintained to the highest standards and are equipped with safety gear to keep you and your loved ones safe on the water. It is our number one priority while you’re on the water.
2. Uninsured and Unregulated Operations
Many non-legit operators run without proper licensing or insurance.
• Liability Issues: If an accident happens, you could be held financially or legally responsible.
• No Oversight: Without adherence to state and marina regulations, these companies can’t guarantee your safety or compliance with lake rules.
Lakeside and Echo Bay Advantage:
We’re fully certified, insured, and adhere to all Connecticut state boating regulations. Renting from us means peace of mind.
3. Poor Boat Quality and Hidden Costs
Non-legit companies often advertise low prices but deliver poorly maintained boats or surprise you with hidden fees. The term B.O.A.T. stands for Bust Out Another Thousand, our companies are well aware of boat issues and have set safe courses of action to handle challenges in the safest manner.
• Unreliable Equipment: Boats may have engine issues, outdated technology, or uncomfortable seating. It’s just dangerous and not safe if the boat you’re on is not backed by certified technicians.
• Surprise Charges: You might face unexpected cleaning fees, fuel surcharges, or penalties.
Lakeside and Echo Bay Advantage:
Our fleet is meticulously maintained, and our pricing is transparent—no surprises, just smooth sailing. Our certified staff and technicians of both Lakeside Watersports & Echo Bay Marina always go through all of our boats to ensure safety.
4. Environmental Concerns
Irresponsible boating practices can harm Candlewood Lake’s ecosystem. Non-legit companies may not educate renters on protecting the environment, leading to:
• Littering and pollution, Drinking while boating
• Damage to sensitive areas like docks or wildlife habitats.
Lakeside and Echo Bay Advantage:
We educate our renters & guests on eco-friendly boating and contribute to preserving Candlewood Lake for future generations.
5. You Deserve a Premium Experience
When you rent from a non-legit company, you miss out on the full Candlewood Lake experience. on our Lakeside Boats during our Boat Sessions we always give everyone a full rundown about the history of the lake and the best things to know about the lake from locals who live on Candlewood lake.
• No Support: They might not provide the customer service you need for an enjoyable day.
• No Extras: Don’t expect watersports equipment, training, or on-call assistance.
Lakeside and Echo Bay Advantage:
We offer premium service, including top-of-the-line watersports equipment, professional training, and a team that’s always there to make your day unforgettable. We always make sure that we are on call to in support for the Lakeside Boats, and the Echo Bay Marina rentals.
How to Spot a Non-Legit Boating Company
1. No Online Presence: Legitimate companies will have a website, reviews, and visible social media.
2. No Credentials: Ask about their licenses, insurance, and most importantly marina affiliations. If they aren’t operating out of a big name marina it’s technically an illegal operating business under First Lights regulation.
3. Too Good to Be True Pricing: If the price seems unusually low, it’s likely a red flag. Nothing is cheap about boating, but we try to make it as affordable and easy as possible to intro yourself into the boating community the correct way. Boating can be unsafe if not done properly.
Rent with Confidence
At Lakeside Watersports and Echo Bay Marina, we pride ourselves on providing safe, reliable, and unforgettable boating experiences. When you rent with us, you’re not just booking a boat—you’re ensuring a worry-free day on Candlewood Lake.
Don’t risk your safety, wallet, or lake experience by going with a non-legit operator. Book with the pros who care about your adventure as much as you do.
Ready to hit the water?
Book your rental today with Lakeside Watersports or Echo Bay Marina!