Are you a boating enthusiast or new to the waves? This guide offers the best free boating resources to get you started or help you discover new ways to enjoy your time on the water.
6 Free Boating Resources
Whether you're looking for free boating tips, courses to earn your boater education card, or an experienced boater looking for exciting new activities or information on vessel maintenance, we've got you covered.
1. Discover Boating: Free Boating Tips and Resources
First, our boating blog is a treasure trove of information for boaters of all levels. We collaborate with experienced boaters nationwide to bring you research-backed articles on everything you need to know. We've got everything from essential safety tips and logistical must-haves to guides for owning and renting boats.
Thinking about fishing, watersports, or just enjoying the outdoors? We'll show you the way. Need help finding boats or boat shows? Curious about boat clubs? We've got you covered there too. And, of course, we'll guide you through buying a boat, including all the fun stuff – like using and maintaining it!
In addition, finding your dream boat couldn't be easier with our boat finder tool. Simply select your preferences across four categories, and we'll match you with the perfect vessel. Need to compare features? No problem – select up to three boats and click "Compare Boats" to see them side-by-side.
On the other hand, maybe you're looking for a more temporary solution. In that case, our boat rental finder tool is here to help! Find local rentals in your area or explore chartering options – all with just a few clicks. No matter your experience level, our free boating resources and advice will keep you sailing smoothly.
2. National Safe Boating Council
The National Safe Boating Council website offers various educational and free boating resources. Dive into safety regulations, statistics, and trends to learn the ropes. Or learn more about government agencies and organizations dedicated to keeping you afloat!
You can also explore safe boating programs and courses online and in person. Need to brush up on terminology? A glossary of boating terms is at your fingertips. Plus, get answers to frequently asked questions about recreational boating.
3. BOATERexam.com
For more free boating tips and resources, BOATERexam.com has great materials on how to be a safe and confident boater! Learn about different boats, their parts and sizes, and how to keep them running smoothly. They also cover essentials like life jackets, fire extinguishers, and distress signals.
Want to be even more prepared? Learn how to read navigation lights, plan trips for good weather, and handle emergencies.
4. United States Coast Guard: Boating Safety
The United States Coast Guard wants everyone to enjoy boating safely so that there are more good times – and fewer accidents. And that's why they offer free boating resources with tips to keep you safe from one of the most trusted resources on the water.
On their website, you'll also find information on required equipment, new boating laws, and even lesser-known safety topics like carbon monoxide poisoning, paddling safety, and boat maintenance checks.
5. Boat Ed
Do you know if your state requires a boating license to be on the water legally or if you only need a boater education card? Some states ask for a boater license, while others require a boater education card. That's why Boat Ed offers online courses and tests to prepare you for safe and responsible boating (including Canada). And they even have information on specific state boating laws!
6. BoatUS Foundation
For most U.S. states, the BoatUS Foundation offers free online boating courses! And the best part? The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and the United States Coast Guard have acknowledged and approved their courses. (And your state boating license agency – like the Department of Wildlife Resources.)
Simply visit their website to pick your state's free boating course and complete the online materials. This website is also an excellent resource for so many other topics like:
- On-Water Training
- Clean Boating
- Captains Networks
- Equipment Rentals
The Best Free Boating Courses and Resources
Recreational boating is a blast, but safety is key. And that's why Discover Boating prioritizes creating free boating resources. Explore our boating blog for more tips and guidance!
