In this portion of our web guide, we will discuss boating as a leisurely activity, recreational activity, or competitive sport.
Boating is a popular recreational activity that is enjoyed by many. with various types of boats available, people can choose the one that best suits their needs, preferences, and bank accounts.
There are several types of boats, which come in various shapes and sizes. Common types of boats include bowriders, cabin cruisers, canoes, cuddy cabins, deck boats, fish-and-ski boats, fishing boats, houseboats, inflatables, jet boats, kayaks, motorboats, motor yachts, pedal (paddle) boats, personal watercraft, pontoon boats, rafts, sailboats, trawlers, and yachts. Each type of boat is designed for specific activities, such as cruising, fishing, or water sports.
Although some watercraft can be used for both, the distinction between recreational and sporting boats lies in their design and intended use. Recreational boats are designed for leisurely activities like cruising, fishing, and sightseeing. Key features include comfort, space, and amenities. Examples include pontoon boats, cabin cruisers, and houseboats. Sporting boats, on the other hand, are built for performance and speed. They are used in competitive activities like racing, water skiing, and wakeboarding. They prioritize agility and power. Speedboats, sailboats, and racing yachts are examples.
Some boats and situations require anchors to prevent drift, securing them in place. There are several types of anchors, such as fluke anchors, grapnel anchors, mushroom anchors, and plow anchors. Each type of anchor is designed for specific types of boats, seabeds, and boating conditions.
Recreational boating activities include cruising, entertaining, fishing, transportation, and water sports. Competitive activities include boat racing, fishing tournaments, and other water sports competitions.
People use boats to enjoy leisurely rides on the water, and to explore scenic areas and coastal towns. Many people combine boating with camping, either on a houseboat or to access camping areas that can only be reached by water. Boats also allow access to prime fishing spots in freshwater or saltwater environments. Others enjoy sailing, as it lets them harness the wind to navigate and explore the water leisurely.
Canoeing, kayaking, rowing, and rafting provide exercise, along with adventures on the water and in nature. These smaller craft can often access areas that larger watercraft cannot. These are also more affordable options, making boating accessible to a larger number of people.
Boat licensing requirements vary depending on the country, state, or local jurisdiction. Generally, boaters must obtain a boating license or certification before operating a watercraft, often exempting operators of smaller watercraft. In most cases, the craft must be licensed by the appropriate jurisdiction, such as a state, before it can be legally operated on public waters.
Topics related to boating are appropriate for this category, although retail sales websites would be listed in the corresponding category in our Shopping & eCommerce section.
Recommended Resources
Formed in 1880 and headquartered in Fredericksburg, Virginia, the ACA is the oldest and largest paddle sports organization in the United States, promoting canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. The organization sponsors hundreds of events annually, along with safety education, instructor certification, waterway conservation, and public information campaigns. An overview of the organization, its history, educational resources, competitive events, policies, and membership benefits are posted.
https://americancanoe.org/
The AKA provides ACA-certified training courses to help paddlers of all skill levels enhance their techniques and understand river hazards. It also offers other resources like gear recommendations, expert advice, and training opportunities. Its training programs include SmartStart Paddling, Intermediate Kayaking Skills, Rescue and Safety Essentials, and Whitewater Kayaking Mastery, which are outlined here, including their duration and certifications. Member benefits are listed.
https://americankayak.org/
Boat-Ed is an online platform that offers state-approved boater safety courses and certification for boaters in the United States and Canada. Their courses are recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). The courses cover various topics, such as boat operation, safety procedures, boating laws, and protocols, and are designed to be engaging and intuitive, with quizzes and exams to test knowledge. Certificates are awarded.
https://www.boat-ed.com/
Published by Firecrown, Boating Magazine publishes ten issues per year in printed format and its online content. Boating Magazine is popular with recreational boating enthusiasts, covering a wide range of topics, including boat reviews, tests, how-to guides, gear recommendations, and industry news, catering to various types of boating, such as cruising, fishing, watersports, and pontoon boats. The publication also offers promotions, such as boat giveaways, and an email newsletter.
https://www.boatingmag.com/
The online magazine is a resource for nearly anything related to boating and fishing, providing a wealth of information, including boat reviews, specifications, maintenance tips, and boating industry news. Useful to seasoned boaters and those just getting started, the site reviews various boats, specifications for boat manufacturers and brands, a directory of boat service pros, marine forecasts, webcams, and other boating resources, DIY tips, and informational articles.
https://www.boatingworld.com/
The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is a non-profit organization promoting safe, clean, and responsible boating. Its mission is to reduce accidents and fatalities on the water, increase stewardship of waterways, and ensure boating remains a safe and enjoyable pastime. The Foundation offers a range of educational outreach programs, including free online boating safety courses tailored for each state. It also supports partner organizations nationwide.
https://boatus.org/
The CYA is an organization dedicated to promoting, preserving, restoring, and maintaining fine, old, power-driven pleasure craft. Founded in 1969, the organization celebrates the unique craftsmanship and design of classic yachts from the early 20th century. The CYA is divided into several fleets, including the Pacific Northwest Fleet, Northern California Fleet, Southern California Fleet, Canadian Fleet, and USA Fleet. Members participate in yachting and other educational and social activities.
https://classicyacht.org/
International Council of Yacht Clubs
The ICOYC is an international organization operating at the Commodores of Yacht Clubs level through a Commodores' Forum. Among its objectives, the main thrust is to identify areas of interest and concern among member clubs and to share information and experience in these areas. The organization was established in Hong Kong in 2006 when the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club hosted the second Commodores' Forum. The benefits of membership are outlined, and member clubs are listed.
https://www.icoyc.org/
The NBF is a non-profit organization founded in 1966. It represents over two million recreational boaters in the United States through boating and yacht clubs and their associations. The organization promotes safe boating through education, acts as a legislative watchdog, and advocates for favorable boating legislation, regulations, and best management practices. Its history and purpose are outlined on the website, along with its leadership, past presidents, and contact data.
http://n-b-f.org/
NYT is a luxury yacht charter company specializing in bespoke sailing holidays, yacht management, and yacht sales, offering a wide range of vessels, from large, deluxe superyachts to bareboat rental of catamarans in the Mediterranean. Operating year-round, NYC has a large fleet of luxury charter boats that can be hired on a bareboat basis or with a skilled crew. Charter terms, photos and descriptions of available yachts, itineraries, destinations, and VIP services are featured.
https://navisyachtcharter.com/
This is an online resource for topics related to kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayak fishing, and other paddle sports. Detailed reviews of kayaks, canoes, paddles, and other equipment, information on paddling trips, including guided, rental, or self-guided options, a paddling location map, safety tips, and an online discussion forum are included, where paddling enthusiasts can seek and offer advice, learn about wilderness trips, and discuss other topics with fellow paddlers.
https://paddling.com/
Dedicated to kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and whitewater sports, Paddling Magazine is a popular publication covering a range of topics, including gear reviews, destination guides, adventure stories, skills and techniques, and industry news and trends. Subscriptions are available for print and digital access for the web, iOS, or Android. Buyer's guides, advice, news, paddling videos, stories, a paddling trip guide, adventure reports, and sweepstakes are featured.
https://paddlingmag.com/
Published since 1966, Sailing Magazine is a leading publication for sailing enthusiasts, offering a wealth of content on various aspects of sailing. It features monthly columns by yacht designer Bob Perry, extensive boat tests, and departments covering gear, technology, and sailing techniques, as well as insights, tips, and stories to help sailors of all levels improve their skills and knowledge. Subscriptions, archives, and advertising opportunities are available.
https://www.sailingmagazine.net/
Scientific Boating Safety Association
Created in 2006 to facilitate the development of safe and productive scientific boating operations for public and private institutions, the SBSA focuses on developing, reviewing, and revising standards for safe scientific boat operations, training boat operators, and ensuring the safe operation of scientific boating programs. Members collaborate to share information that increases the safety of faculty, students, and researchers into scientific boating. Membership information is provided.
https://scientificboating.org/
United States Canoe Association
Headquartered in Lafayette, Indiana, the USCA is a non-profit organization devoted to canoeing and paddle sports in the United States. Established in 1968, the USCA sanctions programs and events to promote paddlesport competition, including its USCA National Canoe & Kayak Championship and the USCA Stock Aluminum & K-1 Downriver/Touring Championship. The USCA also publishes a quarterly magazine, "Canoe News," and a canoe safety brochure and video. Membership information is provided.
http://www.uscanoe.com/