There’s something special about seeing Sarasota from the water. About five years ago, my husband Nick and I joined Suntex Boat Club because we both love boating but didn’t want the responsibilities that come with owning a boat. Instead of worrying about maintenance, storage or upkeep, we simply reserve a boat, show up and enjoy the day.

This weekend, Nick’s brother, sister-in-law and our 5-year-old niece, Emmy, were visiting from Charlotte, North Carolina, so we wanted to give them the full Sarasota experience.

We picked up our boat from our usual spot at Marina Jack in downtown Sarasota and headed out into Sarasota Bay. The weather was perfect, though the water was a little choppy, which Emmy absolutely loved because it made the ride extra bumpy, and she got splashed a few times along the way.

After cruising the bay, we anchored near Lido Beach, where the water was calm, shallow and crystal-clear. It was the perfect spot to jump in, swim and take in the beautiful Gulf Coast scenery.

Of course, we brought our dog, Demi, along for the adventure, too. Wearing her little pink life jacket, she spent most of the day lounging on the boat and soaking up the sunshine.

One of our favorite things about boating around Sarasota is that every outing feels different. Some days we cruise south for lunch at Deep Lagoon Seafood & Oyster House or Casey Key Fish House. Other days we head north to Beer Can Island to meet up with friends and anchor at the sandbar. Every trip reminds us how lucky we are to call this area home.

Weekends like this are exactly why we love being part of Suntex Boat Club. It gives us the freedom to enjoy Sarasota from a completely different perspective while creating unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Until the next boat day!

— Darla Mossotti, account executive