Mobile kayak and paddleboard rentals

Vacationers staying in rentals, campers, families, and locals who don't own or store their own gear.

Per-day or multi-day rental fees per item, plus delivery and pickup fees. Bundles for groups and weekly rates raise the average booking.

• Safe loading and strapping of gear
• Customer service
• Scheduling and route planning
• Basic water safety knowledge

• General liability insurance that covers rental equipment and water activities, ask insurers about watersports rentals specifically
• Check with your city, county or park authority whether you need a permit to drop off or operate on public beaches, lakes or state parks
• Customers sign a liability waiver, have a local attorney review it
• Life jackets and safety gear rules vary by state, check your state boating agency
• Trailer or vehicle insurance and weight limits, plus storage and theft risks

Startup costs are typically around $4,000 to $18,000, depending on how many kayaks and paddleboards you buy, the trailer or truck setup, and life jackets and accessories. These are estimates, so start with a fleet size you can store securely.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $6,000, depending on your location, season, fleet size and bookings. Vacation rentals, campsites and families who don't own gear are common customers.

Ask insurers about coverage for rental equipment and water activities. Check with your city, county or park authority about permits for public beaches, lakes or state parks, have a local attorney review your waiver, and check state life jacket rules.