Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, Anchor Captains & Charters is launching a ridesharing app for boats in Tampa.

The new app pairs United States Coast Guard certified boat captains with passengers, just as you'd be able to book a car using Uber or Lyft. Whether it's an on-demand boat charter or a leisurely sunset cruise, you can download the “Anchor Passenger” app on iTunes or on the Android platform, and review a list of available boats and captains. Also rides can be scheduled for the future or even for immediate pick-up on the water!

 “It’s an awesome opportunity to be on the water with friends and have a great time, knowing that you’ve got safe and sober transportation while you’re celebrating,” said Zach Hatraf, owner and CEO of Anchor Captains & Charters. “Party-goers can reserve a captain and boat for the day, hire a captain to pilot their boat or request a pick-up from the event, all in the app.” Anchor is celebrating the launch in Tampa on Beer Can Island this Cinco de Mayo, offering 50% off boat rides for the event using the code CINCO50.

Map to the Cinco de Mayo Party on Beer Can Island.

"The Anchor Passenger app makes renting a boat as easy as tapping a few buttons on your phone. The major difference [compared to other ride services] is you get a chance to select and view the different types of boats that are logged in. Some folks might prefer a pontoon, while others may prefer a yacht or cruiser. And 100% of our boats come with a Licensed Captain and fuel is included in the hourly rate."

In 2006, Hatraf's best friend was killed in a drunk boating collision. “I knew there was a way to make a difference. Providing boaters with access to sober captains was a natural solution,” he said. Making boating safer and more accessible to the masses is the goal.

“Our inaugural season at a popular lake in Missouri resulted in over 100 charter requests each week,” Zach said. With the entire Tampa Bay region surrounded by water, it's easy to see this becoming a huge service for residents that love the sea, but not the difficulty of keeping and maintaining a boat. 

“We’re thrilled to launch the app on Cinco de Mayo at the Beer Can Island celebration. It’s a great opportunity to showcase our launch and promote boating safety.”

You can download the Anchor app for Apple here, or for Android here, and visit their website at anchorrides.com today.