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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the FMA Boating Club all about?
A. Our members have all the benefits of owning their own boat without the hassle that goes with it, which ultimately gives them more time to enjoy the water with family and friends. We own the boats and take care of everything that boat owners hate to do and pay for, including storage, dockage, maintenance, insurance, and registration. Members are entitled to participate in safety classes, social functions, and more. We strive to provide a carefree alternative to boat ownership – at a fraction of the cost of owning a boat – while maintaining the highest quality of service.
Q. Why join the club?
A. So you can go boating MORE for less!
Q. How does the club operate?
A. The club maintains a fleet of boats on Lake Monroe creating sailing opportunities for members at rates substantially below what it would cost to own a boat. The club also coordinates group sailing and other social activities that provide opportunities to meet new people and entertain your guests.
The boats are maintained and available to use at a moment's notice. Once you are a qualified regular member, you simply call the Club to reserve a boat for a morning, or an afternoon or the combination of both. Your call is received at our office where a friendly, familiar voice who knows your needs and capabilities will help you arrange your reservation.
Q. How do I know there will be boats available?
A. We maintain a ratio of boats to members, so that all members will be able to get the boat they want just about every time. Our reservation system ensures that all members have equal access to the boats, plus members can make guaranteed reservations up to a month in advance. There are boats available during the week for that evening ride or sunset sail, and the weekend availability is great, too!
Q. How do I make reservations?
A. Reservations are made by calling our office. 407.330.0633 or 1-866-320-SAIL
Q. How long have you been in business?
A. The FMA Boating club is young; it was started in September 2003 in response to desires of the sailing community. The parent company has been in business since 1998 and the owners have been sailing on Lake Monroe and in the Central Florida area since 1980.
Q. Where can I sail?
A. There are a number of delightful destinations on Lake Monroe (a lake that covers 9,406 acres) and up and down the St. Johns River.
Q. What type of boat do you have?
A. We maintain a variety of boats and our goal is to match our fleet to our members' interests. You'll find a wide variety of boats like racing/cruising sailboats, day sailors, dinghy's, runabouts and pontoons.
We have chosen the Catalina 22 for all the reasons that have made the Catalina line so popular in the first place. Excellent safety features, classic good looks, quality construction, with good outstanding performance and exceptional seaworthiness. Becoming a member is a perfect way to get on the water and enjoy boating with minimal expense and hassle.
Q. Where are you located?
A. We are located on Lake Monroe in Sanford, Florida next to the city boat ramp. Lake Monroe is part of the St. Johns River, which is navigable all the way up to Jacksonville.
Q. Is there a limit on the number of times per year you can use the boat?
A. No
Q. Who can I bring boating with me?
A. Friends, family, guests, children, and pets. As long as a certified member is onboard you could even entertain an important business client.
Q. Can I join even if I'm new to boating?
A. Membership is open to boaters of any skill level, from the novice to the experienced boater. The certification classes that are available vary in length and depth of instructions based on your comfort level and previous training.
Q. Are there any daily usage charges?
A. No. Your only daily cost is fuel that you use.
Q. How can the club benefit me?
A. A non-boat owning member who sails only a few times a year can expect to save more than 80% of what it would cost to privately own a boat.
Plus, your cost is controllable, you spend money for sailing. There are no bills for unplanned repairs or maintenance costs. If you are in the market for a boat, the Club affords you the opportunity to experiment with boats of assorted sizes, with varied rigging, and with different types of engines. When it comes time to make that costly decision you will be more secure that you are purchasing what suites you best.
Most of all you will have the opportunity to relax and enjoy your favorite boating activities, knowing you are getting the most convenience and value for your money. Best of all, the more you sail, the more you save.
Q. What levels of training and certification are available?
A. Club members may obtain training and certification through the Advanced Keelboat level from FMA. Call the club for details on obtaining ASA certifications.
Q. How can I calculate the cost of boat ownership versus the cost of using club boats?
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Monthly Boat Ownership Cost
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FMA Boating Club Membership
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Boat Payment
(Finance $5,000 at 10% for 3 years)
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$180.00
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$150.00
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Maintenance
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$70.00
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n/a
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Docking Fees
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$180.00
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n/a
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Insurance
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$50.00
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n/a
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Sails and Hardware
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$50.00
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n/a
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Total
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$530.00
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$150.00
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A. We have provided you with a comparison to help you figure the costs of boat ownership. Cost if you owned a typical used 22 foot sailboat valued at $5,000.00 and sail it an average of once or twice a month:
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