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Watersports in Boone
If you’re planning to make a splash in Muskoka, you’ll find no shortage of boating adventures. Whether it’s a serene sunset cruise or taking the helm at a boat rental, Muskoka’s waters are a playground for aqua enthusiasts.
Available Watersports
Wakeboarding
Boone Lake’s calm, glassy waters make it a premier destination for wakeboarding enthusiasts. The lake provides ideal conditions for both beginners and advanced riders. Wake to Wake Watersports offer rentals and lessons to help visitors carve up the lake in style.
Tubing
Tubing on Boone Lake is a fun way to enjoy the water, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. The lake’s gently rolling waves and spacious areas, such as those near Winged Deer Park, provide safe and exciting rides. Bring your own gear or rent from local marinas like Rockingham Marina.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Boone Lake’s serene inlets and quiet mornings are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding. Paddlers can explore scenic coves, spot wildlife, and enjoy peaceful views of the Appalachian foothills. Rentals are available from Boone Lake Marina.
Top Experiences
Captain’s Choice Tours – Cherokee Lake
Scenic Boat Tours
Location: Cherokee Dam Marina, approximately 30 minutes from Boone Lake
Duration: 2 hours
Cost: $55 per person
Explore the natural beauty and history of Cherokee Lake on this guided tour. Departing from Cherokee Dam Marina, this excursion offers stunning views of the lake and its surrounding wildlife. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, this tour provides a relaxing way to learn about the region’s rich ecological and historical significance.
Smoky Mountain Lake Adventures – Douglas Lake
SUNSET CRUISE
Location: Mountain Harbor Marina, about 1 hour from Boone Lake
Duration: 2.5 hours
Cost: $65 per person
Take in the breathtaking mountain vistas and glowing sunsets on this evening cruise. Departing from Mountain Harbor Marina, Smoky Mountain Lake Adventures offers a tranquil experience complete with panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains. This tour is an ideal way to unwind while immersing yourself in the beauty of East Tennessee.
Captain’s Table Dinner Cruise – Watauga Lake
“>Dinner Cruise
Location: Fish Springs Marina, adjacent to Boone Lake
Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $85 per person
Set sail on a memorable dining experience surrounded by the scenic Appalachian Mountains. Departing from Fish Springs Marina, this dinner cruise features delicious cuisine and unbeatable views, especially during the vibrant fall foliage season. It’s a fantastic option for couples or groups looking for a sophisticated outing on the water.
Top Marinas
Boone Lake Marina – Kingsport, TN
MARINA
Boone Lake Marina offers a full-service experience for boating enthusiasts, located conveniently near Kingsport. This well-equipped marina features a fuel dock, certified technicians for maintenance and repairs, and a concrete launch ramp for easy water access. Boaters can secure annual slip rentals, with options for covered or uncovered slips, as well as PWC storage. The on-site restaurant adds a touch of convenience, allowing guests to enjoy a meal before or after a day on the lake. Whether you’re looking to refuel, launch, or relax, Boone Lake Marina is a trusted destination for hassle-free boating.
Jay’s Dock – Johnson City, TN
MARINA
Nestled in a protected cove near Johnson City, Jay’s Dock provides essential amenities for boaters seeking easy access to Boone Lake. The facility offers seasonal slip rentals and a public boat ramp, perfect for launching small vessels. Known for its Leisure Kraft luxury pontoon rentals, Jay’s Dock caters to those looking for a day of fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the lake with family and friends. Reservations can be made online, making it a convenient choice for locals and visitors alike.
Pickens Bridge Marina – Boone Lake
“>MARINA
Pickens Bridge Marina serves as a straightforward and accessible spot for boating and fishing on Boone Lake. While services are limited, the public boat ramp makes it a popular entry point for anglers and small craft owners. Its location provides excellent access to some of the lake’s best fishing areas, attracting locals and visitors looking to cast a line in peaceful surroundings.
Fish Springs Marina – Watauga Lake
“>MARINA
Fish Springs Marina is a full-service facility located just 15 minutes from Boone Lake on scenic Watauga Lake. Featuring a large concrete ramp, a fuel dock, and an on-site restaurant, this marina is a convenient hub for boaters exploring the surrounding waterways. The ship store provides essential supplies, ensuring a stress-free day on the water. With its picturesque setting and robust amenities, Fish Springs Marina is worth the short drive for a day of boating or fishing.
Lakeshore Marina – Watauga Lake
“>MARINA
Lakeshore Marina, a year-round facility, offers multiple launch ramps and comprehensive services, including covered and uncovered slips. Its well-maintained docks and easy access to Watauga Lake make it an excellent alternative for Boone Lake boaters seeking variety. The marina’s scenic location provides the perfect backdrop for day trips or extended stays on the water.
Cherokee Marina – Cherokee Lake
“>MARINA
Cherokee Marina, located 30 minutes from Boone Lake, is a favorite among boaters exploring Cherokee Lake. The marina boasts a two-lane launch ramp, a fuel dock, and a ship store stocked with essentials. Guests can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, making it a great stop for both day-trippers and seasoned boaters. Its convenient facilities and scenic views make Cherokee Marina a go-to destination for boating adventures.
Mountain Harbor Marina – Douglas Lake
“>MARINA
Mountain Harbor Marina, a full-service facility on Douglas Lake, offers multiple launch lanes, a fuel dock, and ample parking for boaters. The on-site restaurant is perfect for grabbing a meal before heading out to explore the vast waters of Douglas Lake. Known for its organized layout and excellent amenities, Mountain Harbor Marina is a fantastic option for those willing to venture an hour from Boone Lake.
Boating on Boone, Watauga, Cherokee, and Douglas Lakes
Planning a perfect day on the lake
A great day on the water begins with preparation. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, towels, and reusable water bottles, as temperatures on these Tennessee lakes can reach 85-90°F in summer. If you’re fishing, bring your tackle box and confirm your Tennessee fishing license is up to date—Douglas and Watauga Lakes are renowned for bass and trout fishing. Plan your stops at picturesque coves, such as Boone Lake’s Pickerel Cove, or explore the quiet beauty of Watauga Lake’s Appalachian foothills. Families should bring easy-to-carry lunches, juice boxes, and extra towels for after swimming. If you’re planning water sports, the wide-open areas of Boone and Douglas Lakes are perfect for tubing and wakeboarding, while Cherokee Lake offers calm zones ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Boating safety and local regulations
Boating safety is paramount across Boone, Watauga, Cherokee, and Douglas Lakes. Tennessee law requires a life jacket for every passenger on board, with children under 12 required to wear them at all times while on the water. Boats must also be equipped with a fire extinguisher, a throwable flotation device, and proper navigation lights for operation after sunset. Speed limits vary by lake: on Boone Lake, for example, speed is restricted to idle-only within 300 feet of the shoreline, while open water allows for faster operation. No-wake zones, especially near marinas like Fish Springs Marina on Watauga Lake or Cherokee Marina on Cherokee Lake, are strictly enforced. Alcohol consumption is regulated with a 0.08% BAC limit for operators, and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) frequently patrols these lakes to ensure compliance.
Where to refuel and restock
Fuel and supplies are essential for a seamless boating experience. Boone Lake Marina offers a fuel dock and provisions like ice and snacks, while Jay’s Dock caters to boaters looking to refuel and stock up before heading out. On Watauga Lake, Fish Springs Marina and Lakeshore Marina are go-to locations for fuel and basic boating supplies. For those boating on Cherokee Lake, Cherokee Marina offers gas and a ship store, and Douglas Lake boaters can rely on Mountain Harbor Marina for extensive services, including fuel docks and parking. Many of these marinas also feature lakeside restaurants, such as PIER 290 or the restaurant at Mountain Harbor, providing a convenient way to break up the day. Always check your fuel gauge before venturing far—boats can consume anywhere from 6-10 gallons per hour, depending on speed and engine size.
Navigating channels, coves, and open waters
Each lake offers unique features to navigate. Boone Lake’s 4,400 acres of water are lined with coves and inlets, requiring careful navigation near shallows and submerged stumps, particularly around the Winged Deer Park area. Watauga Lake, with a depth of up to 265 feet, is surrounded by dense forests, so a GPS or lake map is essential for identifying safe swimming areas. Cherokee Lake is dotted with small islands and features a shoreline of 400 miles, where marked buoys indicate no-wake zones and shallow water hazards. On Douglas Lake, afternoon winds can create choppy conditions, especially near the main channel, so morning outings often provide smoother rides. Always maintain a distance of at least 200 feet from paddleboarders and swimmers, and keep an eye out for wildlife, as these lakes are home to herons, eagles, and other protected species.
Frequently asked questions
Ready to dive into what Muskoka has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
If you’re traveling with the family, Muskoka offers captivating experiences for all ages.
Get hands-on with interactive museum exhibits or spend the day at Santa’s Village, tailored for family fun.
From boat tours on the pristine lakes to wildlife discovery at Muskoka Wildlife Centre, your family can build memories together.
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