When most people think of Massachusetts, lobster rolls, oysters, and clam chowder come to mind. While the Bay State has an incredible dining scene, it's also one of the best places for boating. Whether you're a seasoned boater or just learning the ropes, you're sure to have a great time on the water in Mass. And our Massachusetts boating guide is designed to help you do just that!
Why is Boating in Massachusetts a Favorite Pastime?
The Bay State is home to more than 1,200 miles of seashore. For boating enthusiasts, this means hundreds of lakes, streams, and ponds to enjoy. Whether you decide to take your boat out on a sunny summer day in a hotspot like Nantucket or during the fall on Lake Cochituate when the foliage is breathtaking, you're sure to make memories that last a lifetime.
How to Get a Massachusetts Boating License
Fortunately, it's pretty simple to secure your boating license in Massachusetts. To do so, you'll need to complete a state-approved boating safety education course, either online or in-person.
You can go to the Massachusetts state website to find an approved course. Approved courses will cover navigation rules, emergency procedures, and environmental protections while boating. If your birthday is after January 1, 1989, you must complete the course by April 1, 2026. However, if you were born on or before January 1, 1989, your course completion deadline is April 1, 2028.
Once you complete the boating course successfully and pass the final exam, you'll receive a boating certificate. You'll be required to carry the certificate with you anytime you're the vessel operator. Failure to do so will result in fines.
Top Massachusetts Boating Destinations: Lakes and Beyond
The Bay State is full of exciting spots for boating. Here are some of our favorite Massachusetts boating destinations to help you plan your next boat adventure:
1. Onota Lake in Pittsfield
Situated in the Berkshires, Onota Lake is a popular place for swimming, fishing, and, you guessed it, boating. There's a boat ramp and fishing pier, plus a variety of fish species, such as white perch, golden shiner, and the largemouth bass.
2. Lake Cochituate in Middlesex County
For calm waters and true serenity, you can't go wrong with Lake Cochituate, which spans 625 acres. Located in Cochituate State Park, it's the perfect spot for watersports like skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. Looking for something more relaxing? Plan a day cruise or a laid-back fishing excursion.
Read Next: Fishing Tips for Beginners
3. Otis Reservoir in Otis, Tolland, and Blandford
Otis Reservoir is a popular boating destination in the Berkshires of Western Mass. This 1085-acre lake is full of channel, catfish, white perch, largemouth bass, and other fish species. You can enjoy it for a few hours or turn it into a getaway by camping at a nearby campground like Tolland State Forest.
4. Nantucket Island
Nantucket is a quintessential New England town that's known for its stunning beaches and cobblestone streets. It's also full of boating destinations that allow you to take in all the historic charm from the water. To get started, check out the Nantucket Boat Basin, which is directly in Nantucket, or Harwich Point Boat Works in Harwich Point.
5. Boston
Boston is a vibrant waterfront city that blends rich history with modern attractions, making it a top boating destination in Massachusetts. From the Boston Harbor Islands to the scenic Charles River, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the water while taking in iconic views of the skyline.
Plus, if you live in the Boston area, don't miss out on the 2026 Discover Boating New England Boat Show to shop for a boat of your own!
Navigating the Bay State: Plan Your Boat Ride in Massachusetts
Now that you know how to get your Massachusetts boating license and where to go boating in the state, it's time to plan your adventure. We suggest summer or early fall so you can make the most out of the good temperatures.
