Kenneth “Kenny” Hilderbrandt is a U.S. Coast Guard 100-Ton Master Captain, founder and CEO of RentABoat.com, and bareboat charter consultant with more than 38 years of hands-on experience in the boating industry. Born and raised on Long Island, New York, Kenny developed a lifelong passion for boating and life on the water through his family’s marine-related businesses.
For more than 50 years, Hilderbrandt Industries has built and managed maritime businesses, including Beaver Dam Boat Basin, a marina now owned and operated by Kenny. In 1999, he founded RentABoat.com, expanding his local, marina-based business into an international boat rental marketplace. RentABoat.com connects boat owners and charter businesses with people looking to rent boats, yachts, jet-skis, and other vessels all over the world.
Kenny also specializes in bareboat and demise charter operations, sharing his expertise through educational talks, industry discussions, and one-on-one consultations. He helps boating professionals understand the requirements and challenges of charter arrangements, including regulatory considerations, insurance issues, and the operational distinctions between bareboat charters and other types of vessel rentals.
Through his work with RentABoat.com, his marina management, and his bareboat charter consulting and educational activities, Capt. Kenny provides practical insight into the recreational boating industry. His work focuses on helping boat owners and marine business operators make informed decisions about charter structures, rental operations, and regulatory compliance.