10 green boating tips: How to stay sustainable on the water

Being environmentally responsible for future generations

Recreational boaters share a deep love of our oceans, lakes, and rivers. Alongside the joys of exploration, boaters are responsible for protecting and preserving these natural resources for future generations.

During the Palm Beach International Boat Show, voted among the best boat shows in the country, The International SeaKeepers Society, along with the Water Revolution Foundation and Ethical Yacht Wear, spoke to boating enthusiasts about how they can be good stewards of the marine ecosystems they enjoy.

Here, we share 10 best green boating practices for becoming environmentally conscious on the water.

Support at-sea research

Imagine being part of groundbreaking scientific discoveries while enjoying your time on the water. By offering your boat as a floating platform for scientist-led expeditions with world-renowned scientists, you can help advance marine research.

SeaKeepers offers boaters and “yachties” the opportunity to participate in these invaluable experiences by matching you with a project designed to fit your type of boat, location, and interests. You can apply for this opportunity by filling out a DISCOVERY application.

Become a ‘citizen scientist’

You don’t need a Ph.D. to contribute meaningfully to marine research. You can participate in marine research projects by collecting data independently while on the water. Your observations could help scientists better understand and protect marine ecosystems.

Organizations like SeaKeepers offer citizen science opportunities that allow you to collect valuable data, such as mapping the ocean floor or monitoring microplastic samplings. You can become a citizen scientist no matter where you live; data contributions are welcome from boaters worldwide.

Reduce single-use plastics and other plastic pollution

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, plastics comprise about 80% of all marine debris. Green boating means taking proactive steps to reduce single-use and other plastics on your boat so they never reach the water.

Plenty of eco-friendly alternatives are available, from using products like the Cora Ball to capture microplastics in laundry to installing water makers to refill bottles and cups with fresh water. If a water maker isn’t feasible on your boat, companies like Open Water offer water in infinitely recyclable aluminum bottles.

Educate the next generation of green boating

Inspire the next generation of environmental stewards by allowing students to join “floating classrooms” led by marine educators on your boat. By donating time on your vessel, you support marine education initiatives and help expand learning opportunities.

SeaKeepers welcomes boats of all sizes. With chapters in the United States, the United Kingdom, the South Pacific, and Asia, the organization partners with boat owners worldwide through its educational outreach program.

Choose marine-safe products when you’re on the water

Choose marine-safe and sustainable products while on the water to reduce your impact on marine wildlife. Boaters can opt for non-toxic cleaning products, like Ecostore Boat Wash, and mineral sunscreen and skincare products, like Stream2Sea, which are less harmful to vital ecosystems.

Respect Marine Protected Areas

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) serve as vital sanctuaries for marine life, preserving precious ecosystems and biodiversity. To prevent unintentional intrusion, take time to understand the boundaries and regulations of local MPAs. By respecting these designated zones, you contribute to safeguarding critical habitats, ensuring marine life can flourish undisturbed.

Protect marine life

Beyond respecting MPAs, you should always obey any signs posted on the water to avoid harming local ecosystems or running aground and damaging your boat. Adhering to local, state, and federal regulations while fishing will also minimize your impact on local ecosystems.

Stay on top of boat maintenance to prevent marine pollution

Proper boat maintenance is essential to prevent marine pollution. Green boating tactics include regularly checking your fuel lines, seals, and joints for damage to avoid leaks that could harm marine life. Dispose of grey and blackwater waste responsibly. SeaKeepers’ A Green Guide to Boating provides valuable tips for maintaining your vessel and minimizing your environmental footprint while on the water.

Engage the community in cleanup efforts

Marine debris affects the health of wildlife, people, and local economies. Wildlife can mistake debris in the water or on the shore for food or get entangled in it with lethal consequences. You can mitigate these risks by seeking out organizations that host community shoreline cleanups.

While doing community cleanups, you can collect data supporting policy and scientific research by documenting findings on applications like the Marine Debris Tracker.

Become an advocate of green boating

Educate yourself about marine conservation issues in your area and become an advocate for marine environments. Get involved in conservation projects. By raising awareness and supporting conservation efforts, boaters can significantly impact the protection of our oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Boaters are uniquely influential in safeguarding our waterways for future generations. By embracing these 10 practices, you can mitigate your environmental impact and contribute to preserving and restoring marine ecosystems. Together, we have the power to make a difference, one responsible boating practice at a time.

About Ivonne Gamboa

Surrounded by South Florida’s water, sun, and sand, Ivonne has always been passionate about marine science and exploration of the ocean’s ecosystems. She graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a master’s degree in marketing. She serves as the director of marketing and PR for The International SeaKeepers Society.