I have been an avid lake goer for years. After reading some of the reviews here it is a little commical what some people write And what some expect for the money. I am familiar with Just for Fun and boating both. On their behalf(Just For Fun), boats, wave runners, and the insurance are very expensive. Unfortunately, the lack of experience(sometimes), common sense (frequently), and alcohol consumed on the lake during lake/boating activities causes the operation of this type seasonal business to be more expensive than some would like to think. Face it, if you want to play on the lake, it's going to cost some money. \r
You/they. Cannot teach you everything in a 10 minute speech before you leave the dock. I read a couple of reviews about being charged for damaged props. It does not take much to damage an aluminum prop in a rock bottom lake. I have seen them ask customers to go with the dock instructor to the back of the boat and inspect the prop before you leave the dock so everyone can verify the status of the prop before hand. If you rent from anyone do it. If it's a holiday weekend and you have not scheduled/reserved in advance, don't expect there to be a boat and know it's going to be incredibly busy. There is not always available staff that are knowledgeable about boating and renting that you can call in and get just for a day or weekend. \r
This is by no means a raving endorsement for them. Just a little common sense approach to use for those who have common sense to use it.\r
As far as party barges, they are frequently abused by previous patrons and are not show rooms. If you are looking for a more plush lake boating trip for a group, consider the more expensive house boat rentals instead. As far as tipping, it's never required at any establishment. Is it customary to tip the driver/captain, yes. Most patrons with boating experience know to do it. If you go deep sea fishing, bay fishing, cruise boats, etc. it is customary to tip. How much is up to you if you had an enjoyable trip, tip accordingly. If you can't afford to tip, you shouldn't be going out to eat or participating in a service industry adventure etc.\r
They could definitely stand to improve their bathroom facilities on board, but they seem to be par with a number of public bathrooms with a high volume of use and limited cleaning capabilities out on the water. \r
Bottom line be prepared, ask a lot of questions so you are prepared and plan accordingly. We always have a good time and usually rent for a family afternoon trip once a year. I always tell people the boat leaves the dock an hour before it actually does so we don't waste time waiting for stragglers to get there because they do NOT delay the trips. Your paid time is your paid time whether u spend it at the dock waiting, or use it enjoying the lake. We bring our own ski boat to tie to the barge with our own bumpers and ropes so it doesn't get beat to death against their steel frames from the other boaters boat wakes or sometimes nut jobs who have more money than sense and drive their yachts at half speed throwing excessive boat wakes damaging docks and boats along their paths. \r
Hope this review is worth your time to read it and my time to write it. Good Luck.
more