Top Boating Days for 2022
With Memorial Day weekend (the unofficial kickoff to summer and boating season) in the rearview, boaters are turning their attention to the Fourth of July and other long holiday weekends that allow for more time on the water.
Mark your calendars and get ready for some fun with your family and friends during some of the busiest and best boating weekends of the year.
Memorial Day Weekend: May 28th-30th
Memorial Day weekend is the first big boating weekend of the year and it serves as an unofficial kickoff to summer. Even though it’s behind us, MDW is still worth mentioning, considering it's one of the most popular weekends for boating and sailing enthusiasts.
Many boaters participate in special tributes and celebrations to pay remembrance to those who made the ultimate sacrifice serving the nation.
» MORE: Memorial Day Boating
National Fishing and Boating Week: June 4th-12th
National Fishing and Boating Week (NFBW) is held every year during the first week of June. This year, it will take place June 4-12, 2022. It’s a time to celebrate your love of fishing, learn more about boating safety, and support our national waterways and fisheries.
Take Me Fishing, a branch of the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, organizes fun recreational activities for fishing/boating enthusiasts all across the country. Anyone, regardless of experience level, is welcome to participate. Beginners can learn the fundamentals of fishing and experienced anglers can experiment with new techniques.
First Day of Summer: June 21st
Tuesday, June 21st marks the first day of summer and the longest day of the year. With optimal sunlight and Father’s Day on the 19th, this is a great day to be out on the water with your family.
Fourth of July: July 4th
The July 4th holiday is commonly viewed as one of the best days on the water. Most boaters opt to celebrate America’s independence on the waterways, with fireworks and raft-ups galore.
You should expect extra crowded waterways and busy launch ramps during this busy holiday weekend. It’s important to keep boating safety and etiquette top of mind.
» MORE: 4th of July Boating
Labor Day Weekend: September 3rd-5th
The end of summer brings along Labor Day weekend. For many seasonal boaters, especially those in the northern parts of the United States, this is the first indicator that the boating season is winding down. There is no better way to celebrate this long holiday weekend than by spending the day aboard.
Navigating the Busiest Boating Weekends Safely
To ensure a stress-free, safe, and fun experience during busy boating weekends, follow these safety tips:
- Find out in advance how crowded the local waterways are
- Don’t overload your boat
- Always wear a life jacket and fit passengers for life jackets
- Take it slow and steady, and keep a watchful eye on your fellow boaters
- Offer assistance to other boaters in need
- Be extra cautious when boating at night, especially during the Fourth of July fireworks
- Designate a sober operator
- Keep a VHF radio onboard
- Carry extra lines and fenders
