5 Ways to Have a Memorable Boating Experience This Summer

One of my favorite things about my hometown in Louisiana is how it’s surrounded by water.  Because of all the water ways and nearly year round hot weather in southern Louisiana, water activities and boating have always been a routine part of life for me and have made some of the best memories. Aside from the traditional water sports like wake boarding, water skiing, and tubing, there are many other water activities you can do to have fun in the summer.
Since I’m not into water sports much, I like to find ways to have fun on the water while creating memorable boating experiences during the summer, and I’ve narrowed down my favorites.  If you’re wanting to enjoy some time boating this summer, but don’t want to participate in the traditional water sports, or just want to change things up, these fun boating ideas are for you!1.  Sunset Cruise

A fun way to change up a date night is to take a sunset cruise.  You can easily pack a nice dinner to share on your boat for a memorable evening.  Just find a place to dock the boat and watch the sunset, or even enjoy a late night dinner under the stars.  If you don’t have a boat, no worries, you can always rent one!  Use this tool to find a boat rental near you.

2.  Boat Parade

If you live near a body of water, check with your town to see if they have any boat parades.  In Louisiana, it’s common to have boat parades during Mardi Gras, but since that’s not celebrated in most areas, you may have better luck in joining in on a boat parade for other seasonal celebrations and holidays.

3.  Poker Run

You may also want to check with your town to see if there are any annual poker runs!  This is a fun and different way to spend the day on your boat.  Basically what you do is hit up various designated checkpoints and collect a card from each.  Whoever has the best hand at the end wins!  If you like to casually cruise up and down the water, you’d enjoy a poker run!

4.  Picnic on a Beach

Take your picnic from land to water by using your boat as your navigator to locate a nearby beach. Part of the fun is finding the perfect spot, so you’ll get to enjoy your boat and good food.    You can even incorporate water sports into your day at the beach too, so it’s a win win!  This site will show you where you can find a local water sport rental.

5.  Raft-up Party

Raft-up parties are always a blast in the summer time.  If you have a group of friends with boats, plan to all meet up at a designated location and tie up your boats together.  You can also tie up large rafts for when you decide to take the party to the water.  Just be sure to keep things safe.  These boating courses offer helpful tips to keep in mind.

Do you have any favorite boating or water activities you like to enjoy during the summer?  Please share below because I’m always looking for new ideas!

If you don’t already have a boat and you’re interested in getting one, before you look any further, check out this boat selector tool to find the perfect boat that’s right for you.  You could also always rent a boat!  Regardless, you won’t regret either decision!