Boating in the Carolinas
With summertime in full swing, so is boating season in the Carolinas. Boat owner and water sportsman Charles Jenkin started sailboating at age 9 and, following retirement, is now a safe and responsible powerboater. He joins Carolina Outdoor host, Bill Bartee from Jesse Brown’s, to share about boating in the Carolinas, his personal passion for boating, and the importance of safety and courtesy on the water.
Segment Highlights:
- The top reasons for boating accidents on Carolina lakes and coasts are Boating While Impaired (BWI) and speed.
- Charles loves the vantage point boating gives you of being able to see for miles around you. He emphasizes the sense of serenity and relaxation it brings him to be on the boat.
- Boating is a very relevant activity, with 85 million Americans participating each year, and 61% of boaters having an annual household income of $100,000 or less.
- Boats must have sound-producing devices on them besides boat horns, such as whistles or air horns, in case the motor dies.
- It is required to have a boat’s registration and proper documentation on the vessel.
- In North Carolina, no wake zones begin 150 feet from a dock or ramp. In South Carolina, no wake zones begin 50 feet from a dock or ramp.
- For every person on board or being towed by a boat, there must be the same number of life jackets on the boat. In NC, you must wear a life jacket on a boat ages 13 and under; in SC, the age is 12.
- Common courtesies while boating include maintaining proper speeds, playing music at a reasonable level, staying on course when passing other boats, and waving hello when passing.
Things You’ll Learn by Listening:
With the popularity of boating on the Carolinas’ lakes and coasts in the summer, it’s important to be aware of safety and especially the laws and common courtesies. Jenkin speaks on important laws to know, like having sound-producing devices, registration & documentation, and life jackets. Common boating courtesies include maintaining proper speeds, waving hello to other boats, and more.
If you Missed This Story:
Check out Part One for Jenkin’s thoughts on Boating in the Carolinas and more information on safety while boating. Tune back in to the Carolina Outdoors next week.
Finally, Jesse Brown’s is your one-stop-shop for any lake trip you’re planning. Come on in for your next pair of water shoes, sunglasses, or just plain old advice!
Plus, pick up some of the finest outdoor pieces from Filson or Barbour at Charlotte Filson dealer, Jesse Brown’s.
