Plain-English boating guides, checked against official sources
The Boaters HQ helps US recreational boaters understand what owning and equipping a boat involves before they spend money on it.
What you’ll find here
- Ownership guides: costs, licensing, insurance, loans and renting.
- Maintenance and storage how-tos.
- Buying guides for boat electronics and safety gear.
How we research
- Licensing, insurance and loan facts are checked against the US Coast Guard, state agencies and providers’ published terms as each guide is updated.
- Gear guides compare manufacturer specifications and what each product suits. We don’t test the products ourselves.
- We don’t give personal legal or financial advice. Rules vary by state, so confirm with your state agency before you act.
How the site makes money
As an Amazon Associate, The Boaters HQ earns from qualifying purchases.
Spot something wrong?
Boating rules change. If a page is out of date or wrong, tell us which one and we’ll check it against the source.