Lift the sails or start the motor. Let the deep waters of the Great Lakes tempt you to sail or boat against a backdrop of alluring scenery, mesmerizing sounds and amazing adventure. Go ahead–rev it up on the open water of more than 11,000 inland lakes and the longest freshwater coastline in the country. Take advantage of sunny skies and warm days to explore our Great Lakes and experience the many activities, sites and pleasures that our lakes and beaches make possible.
Michigan’s 3,200-mile freshwater coastline is a boater’s delight. The Great Lakes–Huron, Michigan, Superior and Erie are spectacular glacial waterways. More than 80 Great Lakes harbors and marinas provide slips or dock space. Add sandy beaches, rocky and forested shores, historic lighthouses, remote islands, waterfront villages and port cities—now you have an irresistible Michigan boating adventure.
Whether exploring the Great Lakes or sailing the shoreline, old salts and land lubbers alike anticipate their boating adventures in Michigan. But, before you head out for the season, check out a few helpful reminders for prepping your boat for the great Pure Michigan boating adventures that await you this summer.
Get a free safety inspection…
Decals are available to those who voluntarily participate in a free U.S. Coast Guard Safety Check. Lake associations and marinas can arrange for free inspection days with the Coast Guard or a boater can arrange for a free inspection directly with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary boating safety courses.
Enroll in a boating safety class or go online to complete the course…
To understand who must take a boating safety class by law, and to find a class near you, visit the DNR boat operation age restrictions guidelines.
Be safe—wear a Life Jacket…
Boating accident statistics compiled by the U.S. Coast Guard indicate that 90 percent of the people who drown in a boating or water accident would be alive today if they had been wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident.
For a comprehensive list of Michigan boating guidelines, boaters should contact the DNR to request a copy of the Michigan Boating Laws and Responsibilities handbook, which defines the basics of boating, laws and regulations, navigation rules, weather emergencies, encountering other vessels and much more. Remember, safe navigation on Michigan’s waterways is the responsibility of everyone.
Additionally, if boating Michigan’s waterways is on your spring checklist, you can also find great resources and details for the boating novice at Discover Michigan Boating.
See you on the water!
