The Freedom Boat Club (FBC), the nation’s largest and oldest boating club, has announced plans to expand to Lake Oconee in spring 2014. The newest franchise of FBC, based at the Fish Tale Marina, will be the third location in Georgia and the first in the central part of the state.
Freedom Boat Club also has franchises on Lake Lanier and in Savannah. The Oconee location will begin presales in February and plans on having its grand opening in early April, just in time for boating season.
“We are thrilled to be expanding onto Lake Oconee,” said Freedom Boat Club CEO John Giglio. “It is one of the premier lakes in the South, and is very popular for all types of recreational boating, skiing, swimming and fishing. It will be an excellent addition to our network.”
The Freedom Boat Club, which began in 1989 in Sarasota, has experienced a steady growth in membership and franchise locations based on its model of offering affordable, hassle-free boating. Members not only have a choice of more than 700 well-maintained, late-model boats at 75 locations but avoid the typical frustrations associated with boat ownership: maintenance, repair, cleaning, slip rental, storage, insurance, winterization, towing trailers, etc.
“Our red-carpet service allows members a hassle-free, convenient, fun and relaxing day on the water. All our members have to do is create memories,” said Heather Cantrell, co-owner of FBC’s Lake Oconee franchise, along with her husband, Deano.
“When you live in or near this beautiful lake community it’s only natural to want to use all the amenities. We feel by offering this great option it is just another alternative to get more families out on this incredible lake whenever they can.”
Membership in the Freedom Boat Club gives boaters a wide array of options. The Lake Oconee location will open with five new boats: two bow riders, with wake board towers and swim platforms; one cruiser, equipped with ski ring and a swim platform; and two high-powered pontoon boats, with ski tow bars for skiing or pulling inflatables.
“Freedom Boat Club is located in a very well-equipped, clean marina that is easy to access,” Heather Cantrell said. “We do not think there is a better way to make boating more enjoyable or affordable. We can’t wait for the season to begin.”
For more information and to view our video on Freedom Boat Club: www.freedomboatclub.com
For membership information at Lake Oconee, call: Ron Kalpak, 706-347-6366.
Fish Tale Marina: 891 Greensboro Rd, Eatonton, GA 31024
