Boating

Get Out on the Water

Coastal and Great Lakes national parks provide rich and varied opportunities for sailing or powerboating in some of our nation's most scenic areas. From protected bays to open waters, many of these parks are made up of more water than land, making boating a primary way to explore their remote islands and rugged shorelines. Boating and sailing offer fantastic chances to see marine wildlife in their natural habitat and experience the solitude that can only be found when you're surrounded by miles of water. And you don't need to own a boat to experience these possibilities; many parks offer boat rentals and boat tours. If you do own a vessel, be sure to check with individual parks before heading out. Some parks require a permit to operate a vessel in certain areas. Certain parks restrict or prohibit personal watercrafts due to resource protection or safety concerns. Make sure to also follow both local and US Coast Guard regulations.