If you're anything like us, you're looking for ways to extend the boating season! Luckily, we've figured out the key – finding fun, family-friendly fall boating activities. We're talking sterngating, fishing, sightseeing, camping, grilling fresh seafood, and more!
The 6 Best Fall Boating Activities for Families
Before you say it's too cold, keep a few things in mind. For starters, it's only mildly chilly. (The temperature will drop way more come wintertime!) So, you just need to reimagine what boat days look like when the air is a bit more crisp.
Even if you can't swim all day, you can still enjoy family boating activities in autumn! Keep scrolling to see our top choices.
1. Sterngating (Boatgating or Sailgating)
Fall boating activities offer a range of fun options, and sterngating is a standout favorite.
Boatgating is the boat version of tailgating – and it's a blast! You're missing out if you haven't tried this boat-based twist on watching sports.
A classic day for our families usually includes cruising the waters and watching a game on television or outside the stadium! Some waterfront stadiums provide boatgating experiences during games, allowing you to enjoy the game while on the water.
2. Fishing
When it comes to fall boating activities, few can match the appeal of a family fishing trip. Fishing is one of the best family activities this time of year because it teaches kids important lessons about life.
When children or young adults go fishing, they learn patience while waiting for the fish to bite. Additionally, they learn responsibility through managing the equipment – but also confidence! The sense of accomplishment is real when they reel in that first catch!
Read Next: Fall Fishing Destinations
3. Sightseeing (Or Leaf Peeping!)
Remember to check out historical or architectural sights when planning fall boating activities for your family! Once the leaves change color, it's the perfect time to check out new places.
Some of our favorite areas include:
- Acadia National Park in Maine (and New England in general)
- The Potomac River/Chesapeake Bay in Virginia
- Lake Tahoe in California
- The Hudson River Valley in New York
- Columbia River Gorge in Oregon/Washington
- Dillon Reservoir in Colorado
These are just a few well-known places that you can check out. Most bodies of water near you will have their own hot spots to explore. You just need to find them!
4. Boat Camping
There's something special about boat camping we can't quite put our finger on. And there are so many ways to do it! Either beach your bowrider and pitch a tent along the coast or anchor your vessel and spend the night aboard. Either way, you'll wake up in a beautiful setting with minimal outside distractions.
What is the most crucial safety tip to follow when camping with your family in the fall? Watching kids carefully when they're near the water! You'll also need to ensure you have life jackets and all necessary safety gear.
5. Grilling Out or Picnicking
Let's face it – food brings people together. Cooking meals on your boat for your loved ones is a fall boating activity for families that is often overlooked.
For a premier day of grilling, we recommend combining this event with another one above. Why not have your family or guests try their hand at fishing for their own dinner? Or start the day by cruising to see some beautiful fall foliage and end it with a delicious lakeside boat picnic!
6. Family Boating Activities: Game Night
Lastly, we must end this list by mentioning a winner year-round, which is game night aboard your boat! Kids especially need to get out and widen their horizons and perspectives. So, enjoying game night like you usually do – but in a new location – can make all the difference.
Just remember it may be a bit rocky, so Jenga may not be the wisest choice (unless you're ready for a challenge), but any card or board game will surely please the whole crew.
Spend Fall Outdoors With These Fun Family Boating Activities
The best thing you can do as a family is get outdoors and find ways to connect. These are just some of our favorite family boating activities, but there are many more! Feel free to get creative and come up with your own ideas.
Explore our blog for more inspiration on fun, family-friendly activities to do on your boat! These articles have great ideas to help you enjoy the water together.
