Background on Closures

On September 9, JetRide and Carefree Boat Club informed members via email that they had ceased operations effective September 1. The companies cited rising costs and weather disruptions as reasons for the closures. These clubs operated locations in Palm Beach County and on the Treasure Coast.

Employee Experiences

Following the closures, two former employees spoke out about their experiences working at the boat clubs. Zachariah Rowland, a former training captain for Carefree Boat Club in Fort Pierce who also worked as a dockhand at other Florida locations, described difficult working conditions. He was later terminated from his position.

Rowland said employees often faced frustrated members without adequate support from management. “We’re right there with the members, getting essentially yelled at by the members. They’re upset, they’re frustrated, rightfully so, and we would have to take the brunt of it, not JetRide or Carefree management,” he explained. Despite the challenges, Rowland said the members were the reason he continued working there, calling it “a hard place to work.”

Another former employee, Thomas Margait, who worked at JetRide in Stuart and other South Florida locations, echoed similar sentiments. He said employees tried to provide good service but felt let down by leadership. “We did try to provide a good service, and, unfortunately, I feel management failed us,” Margait said. He also emphasized that members deserve accountability and clear answers or resolutions regarding the closures.

Ongoing Efforts for Response

WPTV has reached out to the owners of JetRide and Carefree Boat Club multiple times since early September seeking responses to the concerns raised by members and employees. As of now, no official response has been received. The news outlet continues to work on obtaining further information.

This story was originally reported on-air and has been adapted for this platform with AI assistance. The editorial team verifies all reporting for fairness and accuracy.

Source: Original report