Boating: A Safe Social Distancing Activity

We are fortunate to live at a place where we can enjoy multiple outdoor activities that comply with current social distancing requirements. Not only can we play golf on our award-winning golf course, but we can also go boating on beautiful Lake Oconee. There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re preparing to head out on the water.

Here’s how to keep yourself and the others around you safe when going on a boating adventure:

Limit the people aboard your boat

When boating, it’s important to adhere to the same kind of social distancing protocols that you would on land. Only go boating with the same family members that live in your household. That means no other relatives, friends, or guests allowed on board. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Keep your distance

Maintain a safe distance from occupants of other boats. Being that Lake Oconee is Georgia’s second-largest lake, it’s not that hard to do. But you’ll want to avoid pulling up onto a beach close to another boat. Also, refrain from rafting up or connecting with other boats. The farther away you are from others, the better off everyone will be. 

Have face masks handy

Just like you ensure that every soul on board has a life jacket available, also see to it that each has a face mask handy. Much the same as a personal flotation device, you never know if or when you might need it. For example, you hopefully won’t need a tow, but it’ll be beneficial to have a face mask ready to wear if you do. 

Be aware at the marina

Our Boathouse Marina is busier than usual with so many people out boating on Lake Oconee. That’s great as long as everyone is careful about keeping at least six to ten feet from one another. Wear your face mask if others are nearby. Watch for others and try to maintain safe social distances when using the boat ramps, tieing up, or fueling your watercraft. 

Wash your hands

If you’ve touched anything that others have touched, like a fuel pump, for example, wash your hands immediately afterward. Be sure to have plenty of hand sanitizer on board your boat in case you don’t have quick access to a sink, antibacterial soap, and water. 

Pack up your boat

Speaking of keeping hand sanitizer on board, you’ll also want to pack up other supplies and gear. Bring your own food, snacks, and drinks from home. If you’re going to go fishing, gear up with your fishing tackle and lures in advance. Avoid stopping at a store on the way to the marina, so bring anything from home you think you might need or want while out on the water. 

Understandably, it will be a while before things return to normal, but we’re looking forward to opening the Boathouse Restaurant and offering boat rentals this summer. In the meantime, if you have questions about using the marina or boat storage options, feel free to call the Boathouse Marina at 706-817-7330. We wish you well, hope you have fun, and stay safe on beautiful Lake Oconee.