After a banner year and with an ever-increasing member base, Freedom Boat Club of Jacksonville is expanding with a new marina office and more in Jacksonsville Beach.
Following a cascade of new hires, the previous office, a 70-foot houseboat — the Freedom Membership — was no longer large enough for the entire crew and the club needed to find a bigger base.
“Fortunately, we did not have to look far for a new home,” said co-owner Lisa Almeida in a statement. “We sold the houseboat and moved right next door to where we were docked at Beach Marine and we still get to work on a boat.”
“The latest addition to our fleet is the Freedom Boat desk, an 8-foot, handcrafted vessel complete with drawers, cleats and even a fully functional bow light,” added Almeida. “I am so excited that I get to sit behind this one-of-a-kind creation built by the amazing Al Kinard.”
Last week, the Brunswick-owned company held its annual franchisee conference, virtually bringing together club owners from around the world to celebrate a year that saw huge growth during the pandemic.
Through November 2020, Freedom Boat Club has grown to more than 245 locations serving more than 55,000 members.
“2020 marked one of the most successful years in franchise history as consumers turned to boating as safe, social-distance activity to spend time with friends and family,” said Freedom Boat Club network president Cecil Cohn in a separate statement. “We are energized by the passion of our members and franchisees who are committed to building the largest and most diverse consumer base in boating by introducing the on-water lifestyle to the next generation and fostering a growing community of lifetime boaters.”
