1st4boats.com – sponsor of the 2008 Powerboat P1 Evolution class-winning #99 Fountain Worldwide team – have set up a new initiative designed to make the powerboating world more accessible for casual users. The Harbour Club was launched at the recent Sail, Power and Watersports Show in Earl’s Court, London.

The Harbour Club initiative follows the lead of the new wave of supercar-leasing schemes, which make a pool of cars available for members to hire at any time. This gives drivers the option to upscale or downscale their requirements as needed.

1st4boats.com are planning to make a number of boats available through the scheme – from high-speed powerboats to luxury cruisers. They say it’s potentially the most cost-effective method of boat use, with no mooring or maintenance fees and no depreciation. Insurance fees, access to 1st4boats.com events and a free RYA powerboat level 2 course are included in the £4000 yearly subscription.

“I was delighted with the sheer amount of memberships sold,” 1st4Boats Sales Director John Beales said. “We had a fabulous response with multi sales of Gold and Silver memberships.

“The new customers that came onboard were extremely impressed with their 20 days out on the water next summer, without any of the usual hassle and cost involved in owning your own boat. We are now looking forward to the London Boat Show at Excel from the January 9-18, where we’ll have the Fountain 29 Fever on display.”