Don’t Buy a Boat—Join the Club: The Story Behind Nautical Boat Club at Lanier Islands
Axis T250 Surf Boat
Some of the best memories are made on the water—sunlight sparkling off the lake, the laughter of kids echoing over the waves, the quiet hum of a boat cruising at sunset. For Brian Andrew, those moments aren't just memories; they’re a way of life.
He’s been boating on Lake Lanier since 1982, sharing the lake with four generations of family and friends. Weekends on the water were a staple—surfing, tubing, anchoring in hidden coves, and simply soaking in the joy of it all. Over the years, he owned several boats and experienced firsthand the thrills—and the trials—of boat ownership. Eventually, after nearly three decades as a boat owner, he sold his last one in 2024.
"I realized I was spending more time maintaining and managing my boat than actually enjoying it," he recalls. "And I thought—there has to be a better way.”
After 35 years in the construction industry, he made a bold move. He stepped away from his long-time career and decided to turn his passion into a business. That idea became Nautical Boat Club at Lanier Islands—a way to give others the fun of boating without the hassle.
Today, the club offers members unlimited access to a luxury fleet of surf/wakeboard, tri-toon, fishing, double-decker party, and bow rider family boats—all backed by exceptional concierge service. Our latest additions to our fleet include the Axis T250 Surf with seating for up to 18 and our Barletta C22CC Tri-toon powered by a 200 horsepower Mercury motor and equipped for fishing with rod holders, rear captain's chairs, and a removeable trolling motor. When members arrive at the private dock, they’re greeted by friendly staff who carry their gear, prep their selected boat, and load it with all the toys they requested: surfboards, lily pads, kayaks, inflatables, and more. Everything is ready for them to just… enjoy.
“There’s nothing better than seeing a family hop off one of our boats with sun-kissed cheeks and big smiles,” he says. “It reminds me of my own kids growing up on the lake. Now I get to help other families create those same moments.”
Family remains at the heart of the business. He and his wife Andrea are raising three children—Austin (26), Charlotte (14), and Maddie (12)—along with their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Teddy. You might even spot Charlotte working on the dock this summer, carrying on the family tradition.
Beyond the lake, they stay active in the community—supporting charities like Habitat for Humanity, Home of Hope, Make-a-Wish, and more. He serves on the board at Unity North Atlanta and co-leads the Men of Unity, blending service with a spirit of connection.
His advice to others? “Don’t buy a boat.” It might sound like a marketing slogan, but it’s rooted in experience. “Boating is amazing—but the ownership part can be overwhelming. I’ve lived it. I’ve loved it. But I’ve also found a better way. And now I get to share it.”
The Nautical Boat Club isn’t just about boats—it’s about memories. Smiles. Sunshine. Time together. It’s a lifestyle. One that’s just a little easier to enjoy when someone else is handling the hard part.
To learn more, visit nauticalboatclub.com/locations/atlanta-georgia-lake-lanier-islands, call us at (470) 222-2628, or stop by our location on the lake at 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy in Buford.
Let the memories begin!