If you’re looking for a simple, free way to boost your visibility and increase bookings on Boat.Rent, here’s the single most powerful thing you can do today: add a video walkthrough of your boat.
We’re not talking about a professionally filmed commercial (although that’s welcome). A simple smartphone video — even one taken in vertical (portrait) mode — can help potential renters visualise themselves on your boat, get a feel for the layout, and build trust instantly. It’s one of the most underused tools in boat listings — and it’s exactly what modern renters are looking for.
Why Video Walkthroughs Work So Well
More than ever, customers want to see what they’re getting before they book. High-quality photos are important — but they don’t show flow, layout, or personality the way a short video does.
Here’s why walkthrough videos are so effective:
- They build trust and reduce uncertainty
- They highlight unique features like spacious decks, updated interiors, or onboard tech
- They keep viewers engaged longer than static photos
- They often lead to quicker booking decisions
According to a 2023 Nielsen study, video content keeps users engaged 2x longer than static images and improves conversion rates across industries — including travel and rentals.
You only have to look at the rising popularity of boat tour YouTube channels & TikTok to see the trend. Thousands of viewers are tuning in to watch people walk through boats of every size and style — and you can tap into that demand, too.
If you’re listing boats in high-traffic areas like Florida, showcasing your vessel with video can help you outshine similar listings.
You Don’t Need Fancy Gear
The good news? You don’t need a production crew or drone footage to get started. All you need is your phone.
✔ What matters most:
- Keep the camera steady – a shaky video is worse than no video
- Shoot in daylight if possible – natural lighting makes a huge difference
- Choose vertical for short clips, horizontal for longer tours – or do both!
- Clean your boat first – clutter distracts from your boat’s appeal
- Optional audio – if you’re speaking, make sure the audio is clear. Bad audio can hurt trust more than silence.
If in doubt, mute the video and let the visuals speak for themselves. Many of our most engaged listings have no voiceover at all — just a smooth walk through the boat’s interior and exterior.
For best practices on filming, you can also review this Best Practices and Tips for Shooting Smartphone Videos from NC State University
Real Benefits for Vendors
Adding a walkthrough video to your listing not only makes your listing more attractive — it opens up entirely new channels of discovery:
- Post your video to YouTube or Vimeo
- Share clips to Instagram Reels, TikTok, or Facebook Stories
- Tag @Boat.Rent on social media — we may share your walkthrough with our audience
- Include a link back to your Boat.Rent listing in the video description
- If you’re using our Vendor Membership or Marketing Add-On, we’ll feature your video across our social platforms, blogs, and email campaigns
You’re not just listing your boat — you’re building your brand.
Turn One Video Into Ten Pieces of Content
Your walkthrough video doesn’t just live on your Boat.Rent listing — it becomes a valuable asset across your business.
Here’s how vendors are repurposing walkthrough content:
- Posting full videos to YouTube
- Clipping short segments for TikTok and Instagram Reels
- Pulling stills for use in image galleries
- Using footage in promotional ads or email campaigns
- Sharing behind-the-scenes shots for added personality
It’s not just a booking tool — it’s a marketing engine.
How to Add a Walkthrough Video to Your Listing
Adding your video to Boat.Rent is quick and easy. You’ll do it from your Vendor Dashboard. Here’s how:
- Log in to your Vendor Dashboard
- Navigate to “Boat Listings”
- Select the boat you want to update
- Click the “Boat Details” tab
- Paste your YouTube or Vimeo link into the box labelled “Walkthrough Video”
- Save your changes – that’s it!
Your video will now appear directly on your boat listing page, giving renters another reason to stop scrolling and start booking.
Need more help? Visit our FAQ page for step-by-step support.
Final Thought: This Is the New Normal
Video isn’t a trend — it’s how people make buying decisions in 2025. Whether you’re listing a single centre console or a full-service luxury charter, your walkthrough video is one of the easiest, most effective ways to stand out.
Start simple. Film it on your phone. Post it. Paste the link into your Boat.Rent listing. Done.
Ready to Add Your Video?
Log in to your Vendor Dashboard and add your video now
Or list your boat for free today and start creating a listing that gets noticed.
For more marketing tips, visit our Boat.Rent Blog or head to your account dashboard to manage your listing.
