Fog Dog wrote:
Let's close this out but I do believe there is a misconception
regarding this topic. This is personal use. I am in control of who goes
on the trip. Where I take them.

The source of the confusion would be your statement from May 21:

"my company has offered to cover the fuel expense
if I were to make myself and the boat available for employee and
customer outings while there."

"If" creates a condition. "We'll pay you $X
if you do Y thing" constitutes a hire. When the party demanding Y
service for $X is your customary employer it just slightly more
obvious. The fact that you're physically steering the boat doesn't make
it personal use.

As I said up thread a ways, the best of luck to you.