July 4: It's all hands on deck for America's largest on-water towing service TowBoatUS

Boaters without a BoatUS Unlimited Towing Membership annual towing plan face costs averaging $750 per towing incident © Scott Croft

At the nation's largest 24/7 on-water towing and assistance service for recreational boaters, TowBoatUS, it's all hands on deck.

The 600-plus boat fleet responds to more than 70,000 requests annually, but this Independence Day holiday weekend the towing service is expected assist more than 3500 boaters with a tow, battery jump, fuel drop off and even pulling a few boaters out of the shallows. That represents a 40% increase over the same holiday period last year.

"Motorists know that Thanksgiving is the busiest time of year to be hitting the road, and boaters know the July Fourth holiday period is the busiest time to be hitting the water," said BoatUS Vice President of Towing Services John Condon. "Being extra cautious and having patience will go a long way this weekend," he added.

If boaters do have a problem that leaves their boat dead in the water, Condon says downloading the free BoatUS App before you head out can get the help you need. "By using our BoatUS App you will be automatically connected to the closest local towing captain, reducing response times and getting you back to the dock or on your way with a jump start or gentle tug off a shoal."

Included with Unlimited Towing Membership are more than 25 BoatUS benefits and discounts. - photo © Scott Croft

Condon suggests starting the holiday right by having an annual BoatUS Unlimited Towing Membership for freshwater for just $85 per year or $159 for saltwater. It will ensure a breakdown won't break the bank. "When our towing captains arrive on scene, they bring 'a whole world of happy' with them, making a bad day get much better. By having a towing membership, you'll know who to call to get professional assistance and you won't have to pay out of pocket," he added.

Boaters without BoatUS towing services face costs averaging $750 per towing incident, with some paying more. Included with Unlimited Towing Membership are more than 25 BoatUS benefits and discounts, a subscription to award-winning BoatUS Magazine, free DSC-VHF radio registration, and more.

More information can be found at BoatUS.com/Towing, or by calling 800-888-4869.