(BALTIMORE, MD) — Dockshare, a Maryland-based startup, announced today the launch of its new online platform that connects boaters with private dock owners to rent their docks for hours, days, weeks, or longer. The platform provides a safe and easy way for boaters to access more dockage options and an extra income source for dock owners. Dockshare is a safe and secure, easy-to-use, and mobile-friendly platform that caters to all types of watercrafts and makes the waterways more accessible for all.

Private dock owners can simply and safely promote their under-utilized docks to boaters through professional profiles. Dock owners can list a dock on their mobile phone or desktop computer for free without any upfront costs. They share information about the dock: photos, description, amenities, availability, pricing, and specs on the profile.  Pricing is determined and finalized by the private dock owner.  Upon arrival by the boaters, dock owners accept payment through the secure Dockshare system and start earning income.

“In the past, boaters were limited to areas where marinas were located, and sometimes felt the financial strain when docking smaller boats. They were forced to plan far in advance, and relied on social media, message boards, phone calls, and newspaper ads to access private boat dock rentals,” explained Gina Young, co-founder of Dockshare. “With the user-friendly platform, Dockshare provides a convenient and flexible way for boaters to access private dock listings and have the freedom to dock wherever they want, whenever they want with a trusted dock owner. ”

The process is easy. Boaters can log onto the site; search for a dock that meets the necessary requirements: distance from location, dimensions, and cost; select the dates and times (short-term and long-term options available); reserve the dock in advance or make a same-day reservation; and pay through the secure platform. All transactions are facilitated securely through Dockshare’s online platform, providing a convenient, transparent, and cost-effective way for boaters and dock owners to share the waterways. 

Dockshare conducted national qualitative market research among dock and boat owners and learned that there was a void in docking options within the market. Additionally, through industry research, the team learned that boat sales skyrocketed last year during the pandemic, and the trend shows no signs of slowing in 2021.*  The recreational boating market is a $20B market and growing in the US with more than 87 million adults identifying as recreational boaters.** Technology research stated that the number of US consumers using on-demand services’ platforms is expected to reach around 93 million by 2022.***

“Following the pandemic and with the warmer weather quickly approaching, there is going to be a surge of boaters on the water this season,” stated Nate Young, co-founder of Dockshare. “As boaters and water enthusiasts ourselves, we know that one of the major challenges for boaters is finding a place to dock – for both short-term and long-term needs – so this new platform is a win-win for boaters and dock owners. Think of it as the Airbnb or Hotel Tonight of the boating world. With the Memorial Day Holiday coming up and the official start of boating season, we are excited to offer this new platform to revolutionize the boating experience.”

Dockshare’s mission is to bring people together – to make the boating community more accessible to everyone because the water is meant to be enjoyed by all.  As a team of individuals from different backgrounds, Dockshare’s hope is to build bridges that connect all people who love life on the water. 

About Dockshare (https://dockshare.app)

Dockshare connects boaters with private dock owners who want to rent their docks while safely earning extra income. It is a convenient and flexible way for boaters to access private dock listings and have the freedom to dock whenever they want.  In the past, boaters have relied on social media, message boards, phone calls, and newspaper ads to access private boat dock rentals. Dockshare is a safe and secure, easy to use, and mobile-friendly platform. Go boating, paddle boarding, canoeing, or kayaking even if you don’t live by the water – Dockshare caters to all types of watercraft.  Dockshare cares about boaters and dock owners’ liability. The company encourages anyone listing on the platform to have insurance that covers their personal watercrafts, docks, and/or property. To learn more about Dockshare, visit https://dockshare.app.

*Boat Sales Took off during the pandemic and now dealers can’t keep up with demand

**U.S. Recreational Boating Market to Go Past $28BN Mark by 2024

*** The On-Demand Economy Continues to Grow