Boating Club In Ocean County Offers Fun On The Water That's More Affordable

BRICK, NJ — For many people who live at the Jersey Shore, one of the perks is easy access for boating.

Boating is an expensive hobby, however, from dockage fees to maintenance to fuel, and can be out of reach financially for many people who would like to own a boat.

That's where Jet Drive Exchange comes in. The company, owned by Nikki and Greg Geran, offers a way for people to enjoy boating without all the financial stress.

Jet Drive Exchange is a membership program, Nikki Geran said. It got its start in Ocean City, New Jersey, and the location the Gerans own at Jersey Shore Marina on Route 70 in Brick.

"There's a one-time activation fee and then a monthly fee," she said, which allows "unlimited usage of the boats in the club anytime you want."

The membership fee covers maintenance and cleaning of the boat, Geran said. "You pay for the gas."

The activation fee is $6,500 and the monthly membership fee is $225. "You can split it with other people," she said.

The company was started by TJ Heist in Ocean City, New Jersey, and started at Jersey Shore Marina by Mike Trapasso, Geran said.

She and her husband were among the first members of the Brick club — "My husband and I have always been avid fans of being on the water," she said — and when Trapasso's father died, Mike offered them the opportunity to buy the business.

That was last fall, Geran said. As of March 1 they took full ownership of the company.

"When we were about to become members I was like, 'This is too good to be true,' but this is the best thing ever for someone who loves boating but can't afford it.' "

The Gerans are holding an open house 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 22, offering an opportunity to see what's involved with the club.

There will be live music, prizes and other promotions, Geran said, along with food, boat rides, and more.

Jersey Shore Marina and Jet Drive Exchange are on Route 70 east, just before the Rainbow Diner.