Oregon’s waterways are therapeutic, no matter the activity. For mental health, physical fitness, angling, and spending time with friends and family. That is why recreational boating is one of the best ways to create memories. The Oregon State Marine Board advocates that all boaters be aware of their surroundings while on the water, have all the required safety gear, and ensure others know their recreation plans in case of an incident.
“Part of the boating experience is planning ahead, preparation of all the necessary gear, and ensuring your boat is ready for the water,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. “And most importantly, wearing a properly fitted life jacket while boating should be at the top of everyone’s minds.”
The Marine Board has many resources to help boaters have a safe and enjoyable experience on all of Oregon’s waterways. The agency advises boaters to take the time to plan, including learning how to use the Marine Board’s interactive Boat Oregon Online Map. The map displays public boat ramps, local rules for boat operations and other information about a facility, like the facility owner and amenities. Make sure to check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides. Additionally, see if there are any reported waterway obstructions using the agency’s obstructions dashboard map. Boaters can also check the Marine Board’s website to find out what equipment is required based on the size and type of boat.
The Marine Board would like to remind ALL boaters and their passengers to:
- Boat Sober. Abstain from consuming marijuana, drugs, or alcohol, which impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination and contribute to dehydration. Boating demands sharp situational awareness. Pay attention to your surroundings and enlist the help of passengers to keep a lookout as well.
- All children 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket when underway on all boats (motorized and non-motorized). All boaters operating in Class III and higher-rated whitewater rivers are required to wear a life jacket.
- Be courteous to other boaters and share the waterway. Stage your gear in the parking lot or staging area regardless of your boat type. This makes launching faster and everyone around you happier.
- In Oregon, all motorboat operators with propulsion greater than 10 horsepower must take a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card when operating the boat. Paddlers of non-motorized boats (kayaks, canoes, rafts, stand up paddleboards and their inflatable versions) are required to purchase a Waterway Access Permit. The Marine Board also offers a free, online Paddling Course (also available in Spanish) for boaters new to paddling activities.
- Fill out a float plan and leave it with friends and family. This way, they can call for help if you are overdue.
This information and more can be found at Boat.Oregon.gov. Use the search bar for the fastest content results.
May is traditionally the month recreational boating starts to pick up. Governor Kotek acknowledges how vital boating safety outreach is for educating visitors and Oregonians about safe boating and water recreation practices, aiming to decrease preventable deaths. May 16-22, 2026, has officially been proclaimed National Safe Boating Week.
The agency also invites boating and water enthusiasts to check out its “Welcome to the Water” flagship video, showing Oregon’s abundance and diversity of boating opportunities around the state.
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