The Struggle with Conventional Covers
- Don Garchitorena
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
Finding the right way to protect a significant investment like a high-end boat can be a journey of trial and error. For Bob Beatty, a long-time resident and boater at the Lake of the Ozarks, that journey led him away from the physical strain of traditional covers and toward the innovation of the Touchless Boat Cover®.
A Lifetime on the Water
Bob’s connection to the Lake of the Ozarks runs deep. He has been coming to the area since he was seven years old, eventually purchasing a condo there about 13 years ago. With a permanent home for his Regal 3300, his primary concern was ensuring the longevity and condition of the vessel. For any boat owner, the "investment" isn't just the purchase price; it is the countless hours of recreation and family memories tied to the water. Protecting that investment from the elements, UV rays, rain, and debris is a non-negotiable part of ownership.
The Struggle with Conventional Covers
Like many boaters at the time, Bob initially opted for what he describes as a "shower curtain" style cover. This system typically involves a heavy fabric cover that slides along metal rails to encapsulate the boat. While these covers provide protection, they come with a high physical cost.
Bob, who spent 43 years as a coach, was no stranger to physical activity. However, time and the rigors of a long career eventually take a toll. With two new hip replacements, the repetitive task of climbing up and down the boat to slide a heavy, cumbersome cover back and forth became more than just a chore, it became a physical liability.
The frustration of this "old way" of doing things is a common sentiment among seasoned boaters. After a long, relaxing day on the lake, the last thing anyone wants is a workout involving heavy lifting and balancing on a dock. Bob realized that if he wanted to continue enjoying his Regal 3300 without the dread of the docking process, he needed a more efficient solution.
Discovering the Touchless Advantage
Driven by the belief that "there’s got to be an easier way," Bob began researching alternatives. His search led him to the Touchless Cover® system. At first, he was skeptical. The idea of a cover that required no manual hauling or sliding seemed almost too good to be true. He recalls thinking, "It just can't be that easy".
The "Touchless" system operates on a simple but powerful premise: automation. Instead of the owner physically manipulating the fabric, the cover is raised and lowered with the push of a button. This eliminates the need to climb over gunwales or wrestle with snaps and rails, making it an ideal solution for boaters who want to prioritize ease of use and safety.
Why It Matters for Boaters
Bob’s story highlights a critical turning point for many in the boating community. As technology advances, the focus has shifted from "simple protection" to "convenient protection." Touchless Cover® offers several distinct advantages that resonated with Bob’s needs:
Physical Longevity: By removing the manual labor associated with covering a boat, the system allows individuals with physical limitations—like Bob’s hip replacements—to continue boating independently for years longer than they might otherwise be able to.
Time Efficiency: The transition from the water to the dock becomes a matter of seconds. There is no more "covering the boat" fatigue at the end of the day.
Asset Protection: Because the system is so easy to use, owners are much more likely to cover their boat every single time they use it, ensuring the interior and exterior remain in pristine condition.
For Bob Beatty, the switch wasn't just about a new piece of equipment; it was about reclaiming the joy of his time at the Lake of the Ozarks. By moving away from the "shower curtain" style and embracing the Touchless Cover®, he found a way to protect his Regal 3300 that matched his lifestyle and respected his physical needs. As Bob discovered, sometimes the "easier way" is truly as simple as it looks.

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