Embracing Fall: A Guide to Year-Round Boating
As summer fades and cooler days settle in, the South offers an extended boating season as vibrant as the fall foliage. While many in the North are winterizing their boats and preparing to stow them away for the colder months, Southerners have the unique opportunity to enjoy boating well into the fall. With the proper preparation, you can keep your vessel in top shape and make the most of the cooler, crisp weather.
What To Do
Check the Engine: Cooler temperatures can affect your engine’s performance. Having it serviced helps to ensure it starts smoothly and runs efficiently. At MarineMax, our expert technicians can perform thorough engine checks and tune-ups so your boat is ready for those crisp fall outings.
Inspect the Hull: Look for signs of wear and tear that may have developed over the summer. It is best to address any issues now to avoid any more significant problems later. MarineMax offers comprehensive hull inspections and repairs to ensure your vessel is in excellent condition.
Clean and Protect: Give your boat a thorough cleaning and apply a protective coating to guard against the fall weather. Regular cleaning will help prevent mold and corrosion. MarineMax also offers detailing services to keep your boat sparking and protected so it’s ready for any season.
Winterize if Needed: Even if you may not face severe winter conditions, it can be wise to consider partial winterization, such as adding antifreeze to key systems. This will protect your boat during unexpected cold snaps. MarineMax provides winterization services to safeguard your boat from unpredictable weather.
You can trust us to manage all these details so you can enjoy peace of mind throughout the fall. Contact your local MarineMax store or use your My MarineMax Account for Boating Made Easy™ to book your services.
Where To Go
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Lake Lanier, GA
Known for its stunning fall foliage, Lake Lanier is a prime spot for a scenic cruise. The cooler temperatures make for a comfortable ride, and the vibrant colors of the surrounding trees provide a breathtaking backdrop. -
The Intracoastal Waterway, FL
Stretching along the coast, this waterway offers a variety of fall experiences. From the lively waterfront festivals in cities like St. Augustine to the peaceful stretches near the Everglades, there’s something for everyone. -
Fort Walton Beach, FL
Located on the Gulf Coast, Fort Walton Beach offers crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands. Enjoy serene autumn boating with stunning coastline views and easy access to nearby barrier islands like Santa Rosa and Okaloosa. -
Galveston Bay, TX
Galveston Bay is a fantastic spot for fall boating with its mild temperatures and beautiful coast scenery. The bay is ideal for leisurely cruises, fishing, and exploring nearby barrier islands. Visit the historic port town of Galveston for charming shops and local seafood. -
Wrightsville Beach, NC
Just off the coast of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is perfect for fall boating with its gentle waves and picturesque surroundings. Enjoy a tranquil cruise or explore nearby Masonboro Island, a pristine nature preserve with excellent wildlife watching and beachcombing opportunities. -
Tennessee River, TN
This river offers fantastic fall views and is an excellent spot for sailing and fishing. The crisp autumn air, combined with the serene river scenery, makes for a memorable boating experience. -
Apostle Islands, WI
Venture out to the great state of Wisconsin and experience more than 20 islands to explore via boat. Located on the western shore of Lake Superior, discover incredible scenery from the water or raft up for plenty of outdoor activities such as camping and hiking, or head inside to the museum at Madeline Island. Take some laps around these islands on a Saxdor. -
British Virgin Islands (BVI)
If leaf-peeping isn’t your thing, let the warmer temperatures keep sizzling in the British Virgin Islands. Take your boat to the picturesque shores or stay afloat on a yacht chartered by a personal captain and crew through MarineMax Vacations. In the BVIs, you can sit back, relax, and let all your worries float away. We recommend touring the outskirts of these islands on an Aquila Power Catamaran. -
Devils Fork State Park, SC
Head to South Carolina, inside Devils Fork State Park, for a boating gem called Lake Jocassee. With its higher elevation, fall colors tend to linger. The park offers secluded boat-in campsites and even waterfalls, providing a tranquil escape. Why not check out this great location aboard an all-new Aviara AV28S model? -
Lake Barkley, KY
Just a short drive from Louisville, KY, and Nashville, TN, lies Lake Barkley, which covers 58,000 acres and boasts over 1,000 miles of picturesque shoreline. This region presents numerous hiking trails and places to anchor to capture captivating fall foliage. Envision yourself seeing the best of what fall offers on a new Sea Ray. -
Lake of the Ozarks, MO
Situated midway between Kansas City and St. Louis, you'll discover the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, a massive body of water enticing to boating enthusiasts. Besides many amenities and things to do, during autumn, you'll find plenty of coastlines to explore and witness the vibrant hues that engulf the area in a blaze of colors. And if you need any boating supplies, MarineMax Lake Ozark isn't too far away! -
Lake Tahoe, CA; NV
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is one of the deepest lakes in the US and is over a million years old! Hang glide, take a helicopter tour, shop, ski, hike, boat, or do almost anything by this stunning clear blue lake. And it's even more picturesque when the fall foliage reflects against it. See it in luxury aboard one of these Galeon Yachts models. -
Mackinac Island, MI
Arrive by boat, but no driving is allowed at this location—unless by horse and carriage. This relaxing and delightful island on Lake Michigan is filled with great restaurants and will take one back to olden times with its charm and history. Although there may be no cars, you can still choose to modernize your favorite mode of transportation to the island on any of these new boats. -
Magdalena Bay, Baja California Sur
Although there are many beautiful autumn locations to see by boat in the state of California, head below for an experience you won't forget. Check out Magdalena Bay and watch grey whales fill the water with life and spot dolphins, sea lions, striped marlin, balls of sardines, anchovies, and more. Cruise beyond the shore and see more marine life on one of these stunning Ocean Alexander models. -
St. Michaels, MD
St. Michaels shines among Chesapeake Bay's charming towns in Maryland. Just 25 nautical miles from Annapolis, it boasts excellent dining, hospitable inns, and a renowned boating museum. This location is ideal for autumn exploration along the Bay's extensive shoreline. Head over to this quaint location on a stunning Cruisers Yachts model and stay for a while!
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