Whether you’re heading to a lake or a river, or you love to fish or live on the edge by (safely) jetting across the water on a personal watercraft (PWC), there’s plenty of fun to be had on the water over a seeking of New York boating.

Travel like an insider with these tips on how to make your boating trip in New York epic!

A man and girl on a personal watercraft (PWC), New York boating concept.

Why We Love Boating in New York

The best way to enjoy New York is either by the “heel-toe express” (i.e., walking) or by water.

Boating is a perfect way to experience the charm of a hustling city from a more relaxed point of view while learning about the city’s heritage and history. There are also tons of other water activities to try out in New York!

Many different parts of New York offer great paddling and rowing experiences at little or no cost. Learn basic canoeing with the Urban Park Rangers in the Bronx, go out with the Village Community Boathouse along the Hudson starting in Manhattan, have a row and dinner with the North Brooklyn Boat Club, or head out to the Long Island City Boathouse and learn some canoeing and kayaking skills.

When Is the Best Time to Plan a Weekend of Boating in New York?

First, the best time to visit New York is between April and June. April, May, and June offer wonderful summer-like weather without excessive heat! The temperature ranges from 14-25 degrees Celsius in those early months.

Later on in the year, from September to early November, allows for breezy autumn weather. The changing colors in the trees, the beautiful waters, and the sunny days make for the best weekend trip.

With the timing in mind, find some places you’d like to see! Here’s a list of the trendiest, most beautiful, and most Instagram-worthy spots for boating while in New York.

Chautauqua Lake

This beautiful lake hosts many marinas, parks, and great spots for fishing. It also has several restaurants and cottage rental opportunities.

Chautauqua Lake is nestled between Buffalo, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh borders. It’s great for water sports and recreational activities, such as catch-and-release fishing (which is recommended by conservationists).

This is the perfect lake for all-around family fun!

A man driving a boat while pulling a waterskier behind it.

Lake George

Lake George is our favorite spot for boating and water sports.

Lake George Marinas offers boat rentals with free training courses for inexperienced boaters and also allows you to launch your own boat at multiple locations. Lake George spans 28,000 acres and is perfect for tubing and other water sports.

The lake is a refreshing 70 degrees Fahrenheit in June — perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. Million Dollar Beach is a beautiful, family-friendly spot to relax and picnic under the sun.

Lake Champlain

Named after the explorer Samuel de Champlain, its depths reach 400 feet and features over 80 species of cold and warm-water fish.

Lake Champlain stretches 120 miles along New York on the coast of the Adirondacks Mountains. Even more exciting is the mystery long-necked creature swimming in its waters, also known as Champ to the locals.

Canoes on a lake.

Skaneateles Lake

About a 30-minute drive from Syracuse lies a pristine, glimmering lake. Skaneateles Lake offers boat launches for your own vessel, or you can rent kayaks and canoes to use for the day.

Don’t miss out on the sixth largest of the Finger Lakes in the region. Its calm waters allow for beautiful beaches and park access at Thayer Park, Clift Park, and Shotwell Park. Boating and fishing are just a few pastimes well-used by locals and visitors throughout the year.

Liberty Landing Marina

Lady Liberty allows you to dock and eat under her beautiful statue in the Marina. The Marina offers two renowned restaurants and gorgeous sunset views across the water.

The Ellis Island Ferry tour offers great views from several angles of Lady Liberty and the New York skyline. Truly stunning!

Looking at the NYC skyline from a boat, New York boating concept.

Stay Safe During a Weekend of Boating in New York

There are several ways to enjoy the beauty of New York at sea level! Hopefully, these tips for an awesome weekend of New York boating will help you get out there and explore them.

While on the water, make sure you know how to stay safe — whether you take a leisurely boat cruise, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or send your heart racing with some fun on your waterskis behind a speeding boat. The best way to learn boating safety essentials is to take the online boating education course for New York through BOATsmart!

Our course is fun and informative, making it easy to learn what you need to learn, pass the final exam, get your boating license, and hit the waters legally and safely in New York.

Originally published in August 2018. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy October 11, 2024.

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