Motor Boatin' Bloggin'

How to Navigate a Lake for the First Time

March 1, 2021

Renting your first boat? There is nothing more exciting than getting out on the water for the first time! With the warm weather, open water and all the fun you can imagine at your fingertips, we are so excited to welcome you to the Motor Boatin family. To help you get started, we compiled a couple of our favorite tips and tricks for your first time out on the water.

Here are three tips to help navigate a lake for the first time:

1. Review our rental policy: This is a great place to start. Review our rental policy here before your arrival. When you arrive, talk to the rental staff about any questions or concerns. They won't just take your money and hand you the keys; they'll talk you through safety rules and regulations and help find he best boat for you.
2. Know your limits: If you aren't familiar with the water, stay with a group or get a chart of the water you'll be navigating and take a short route at first. There is a lot of learning that will take place out on the water so take it slow and remind yourself that you are a beginner.
3. Check your surroundings: You should always have a reasonable idea of where you are in a large body of water. Regulars out on the lake typically recognize buildings on the shoreline that give them an idea of where they are at. While this method works under normal circumstances, if you try to find your way back after dark, everything will look different. In unfamiliar waters, it is good to have maps so you can locate your launch point and use a compass to find your way back. It is also helpful to ask our staff about landmarks, maps and GPS capabilities.

We are eagerly awaiting your arrival here at Motor Boatin! Spice up your free time with a Jet Ski or boat rental from us. Our quality rentals are the perfect ingredients for an afternoon of fun, recreation and relaxation. We cannot wait to hear from you!