The holidays are here, and Giving Tuesday (December 2) is the perfect time to give back to the waters we love. These charities support marine conservation, introduce new faces to the water, and use boats to create moments of healing and connection.
Keep reading to learn more about five notable organizations that support boating and sailing communities (although there are many to choose from).
Boating Organizations to Support this Year During Giving Tuesday
These boating charities and groups are working to make our waterways better for for tomorrow's anglers and captains.
1. Ocean Conservancy
Ocean Conservancy isn't just about talk—they take action to keep our coasts wild and healthy. By organizing cleanups and protecting marine environments, they help ensure our shorelines stay vibrant for every sunrise.
- Your Impact: Your donation funds scientific solutions to climate change impacts and helps remove debris from our seas.
To learn more or support, visit the Ocean Conservancy website.
2. Sea Star Base Galveston (SSBG)
At SSBG, the docks come alive with kids eager to learn about boating. Nobody forgets their first time zig-zagging into the wind or the high-fives after a wonky docking attempt. Sure, they're learning to sail, but they're also picking up confidence, grit, and memories that last long after the sails are down.
- Your Impact: You fund direct hands-on education for future captains, marine scientists, and maritime leaders.
To learn more or support, visit Sea Star Base Galveston.
3. Warriors & Quiet Waters (WQW)
WQW isn't just another fishing charity—it's a lifeline. Their fly-fishing retreats help post-9/11 combat veterans find quiet, reflection, and healing on the water. Sometimes a single cast can mean a fresh start.
- Your Impact: Donations cover all costs for a veteran's therapeutic fishing trip, including travel, lodging, and gear.
To learn more or support, visit the Warriors & Quiet Waters website.
4. Shake-A-Leg Miami (SALM)
Shake-A-Leg Miami unlocks the water for everyone—kids and adults facing tough challenges from physical to financial. With patient teachers and creative gear, they open the door to freedom, joy, and growth on the waves.
- Your Impact: Helps maintain adaptive equipment and ensures accessible boats and docks for participants who need them most.
To learn more or support, visit the Shake-A-Leg Miami website.
5. Women's Fishing Federation (WFF)
WWF provides education, camaraderie, and support to women anglers everywhere, from all skill levels. Through events, resources, and community initiatives, they inspire women to become more confident in their fishing skills and to build lasting friendships within the fishing community.
- Your Impact: Scholarships and hands-on clinics for new female anglers and youth.
To learn more or support, visit the Women's Fishing Federation website.
Bonus: Local Tall Ship and Maritime Education Programs
Look beyond the big national names. Across the country, local groups run tall ships or historic vessels focused on experiential learning. These boating and sailing charities teach teamwork, leadership, and resilience to those who need it most.
- Your Impact: Find a local tall ship or maritime museum program near you to support community marine education.
Find Boating and Sailing Charities to Support
This Giving Tuesday (December 2nd), give back to the water that's given us all so much. Even a little helps someone find peace, adventure, or their first time feeling free on the water.
Boating and Fishing Charity Q&A
Q: Why support boating, fishing, and sailing charities?
A: Supporting these charities protects oceans, preserves marine life, and introduces new people to the joys of boating, fishing, and sailing.
Q: How do these charities benefit communities?
A: They provide hands-on education, adaptive boating programs, and therapeutic experiences, helping youth, veterans, and underserved populations connect with the water.
Q: What impact does a donation make?
A: Donations fund cleanups, equipment, scholarships, and marine conservation initiatives, ensuring safe, healthy waterways for everyone to enjoy.
Originally published in May 2017. Updated in December 2025.
