Our Story

Capitol Boat Club was born in 2017 due to a severe lack of boating options on Madison's lakes. The city has a great lake culture but most people don’t have easy and affordable boat access.

Our Mission

With Madison’s limited options for rentals and very limited public slips available, people who live off the lake and still want to boat are faced with the hassle of pulling a boat in and out of the water and then storing it after each use. Capitol Boat Club has created a way for these individuals to partake in all the benefits of having a boat without the hassles and expenses. Though the concept of a boat club is new to most people, it is growing in popularity as the best alternative to boat ownership for those looking to boat frequently.

In our first four years, we functioned solely as a members-only boat club. During the summer of 2020 popularity in the club soared as Covid-19 canceled summer travel plans and limited the options for local activities. Boating was one of the only safe ways for families and individuals to get out of the house and enjoy their summer. Due to this boom in demand, we were able to invest in the addition of a rental fleet starting in 2021.

Now offering non-member rentals and captained charters in addition to our standard membership plans, we’re able to provide boat access to even more people in Dane County. We strive to provide safe, easy, and affordable boating for everyone from first-timers to seasoned former boat owners. Whether you’re visiting or a Madison native, we’re here to help with everything you need for an amazing day on Lake Mendota.

A new era for Capitol Boat Club has begun!

Capitol Boat Club has new Ownership. As of April 1st. 2025, Ron and Sandy Cowan have become the new owners of Capitol Boat Club.

Our Story

MADISON, WI (May 5, 2025) – Capitol Boat Club, Madison’s alternative to boat ownership since 2017, has new ownership. After retiring from their corporate careers, Ron and Sandy Cowan have returned to their entrepreneurial roots. “We intentionally sought out an opportunity that would be a win for all of us. Our business goals are aligned to provide customers and the staff a safe and fun boating experience on Lake Mendota. This successful well run boat club and rental boat business combined with being on the water in a boat as work felt like a perfect fit.”

Sandy has known the founder and previous owner Justin Sisley, for several years. Working closely with Ron, Justin passed the Capitol Boat Club ownership to them on May 1, 2025. Ron says, “He established and grew a very solid business. We look forward to building on this success.  We are enhancing safety awareness, education and procedures. This includes dock site training and web-based resources”.    

Sandy is focusing on community connections. As a mother of 5 and RN, she says “Science is telling us the many benefits of being in a boat on the water can make us happier and healthier. I am finalizing a partnered program to assist families with seriously ill children. As our guests, referred families will receive a captain-chartered boat ride on Lake Mendota. Children, no matter their situation or circumstance, still need opportunities to dream, explore and play. A chartered boat ride offers children and their families a chance to be a kid having fun together with their parents and siblings on the water “.

Ron and Sandy Cowan are excited to join the Capitol Boat Club family.  Ron reports, “We are ready! The boats are in the marina. We are looking forward to a great season and greeting our club members and customers”.