GoBoatingFlorida

06/04/2026

This circa-1965 photo of Yacht Harbor in Clearwater shows the kind of waterfront operation that helped generations of boaters get out on the water. Rentals, sales, service, and plenty of old Florida character!

06/02/2026

Today’s boat displays do a lot more than show where you are.

Modern multifunction displays can integrate navigation, sonar, radar, engine data, cameras, weather, lighting, and more into a single central command center at the helm. This Boating Magazine article takes a look at some of the latest advancements in MFD technology and what they mean for boaters.

Today’s multifunction displays serve as command centers for marine electronic networks, capable of quick processing speeds and providing a world of information.

06/01/2026

Hurricane season is not something any Florida boater is anxious to talk about, but today marks the official start, and preparation matters.

When a storm is already on the horizon, it’s easy to miss important steps. From securing your boat and checking your lines to knowing where your vessel will ride out severe weather, preparation is key.

Read our Hurricane Boat Prep 101 blog and make sure your boat is ready before the season gets active.

Hurricane Boat Prep 101 For Florida boaters, hurricane season means spaghetti plots, storm tracks, and CAT ratings are never too far from the conversation. As with all things boating, preparation matters. Whether you’re a new boat owner or just need a refresher before the season gets active, now i...

05/29/2026

Some places in Southwest Florida are beautiful from the shore, but even better when you arrive by boat. Our Better by Boat campaign highlights the destinations, waterways, islands, restaurants, sandbars, and coastal communities that make boating here so special.

Read the blog and start planning your next trip!

Southwest Florida is beautiful from the shore, but some places are simply better when you arrive by boat. That is the idea behind Go Boating Florida’s Better by Boat campaign, a growing destination series created to inspire boaters to explore more of the incredible waterways, islands, sandbars, re...

05/28/2026

Meet Flitz Polishing & Buffing Products, a proud member of the Go Boating Florida Marine Experts Network!

Known for their polishing, cleaning, and protection products, Flitz helps boaters keep their vessels looking their best in tough marine environments. From metal polish and fiberglass care to ceramic sealants and detailing products, their marine lineup is made to help clean, restore, shine, and protect the surfaces boaters rely on every day.

Detail your boat like a pro with Flitz Polish, Waxes, Sealants & Buffing accessories! Restore your boat to like-new condition!

05/26/2026

Looking for boating tips, local insights, fishing reports, and helpful ways to make the most of your time on the water?

Our Life on the Water blog is filled with articles for Southwest Florida boaters, from safety reminders and boating know-how to local destinations, seasonal tips, and more.

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we pause to remember and honor the brave U.S. military personnel who gave their lives in service to our country. The freedoms we enjoy every day, including the freedom to gather with family and enjoy time on the water, were protected by their courage and sacrifice.

From all of us at Go Boating Florida, we remember, we honor, and we are grateful.

05/22/2026

Did you know? Cape Coral is credited with having more navigable waterways than any other city in the world!

With more than 400 miles of canals, it’s no wonder boating is such a big part of life here.

05/21/2026

Anchoring for a quick fishing stop and anchoring overnight aren't quite the same thing. From how much scope you use to how carefully you plan for wind, current, and swing room, the details matter.

This article from Boating Magazine breaks down the key differences.

Interested in anchoring for fishing or overnighting? The methods and ground tackle employed for each vary. Learn how to do both safely.

05/19/2026

Better by Boat continues with a visit to Shell Key.

Just off St. Pete Beach, Shell Key Preserve is a quiet barrier island known for clear water, soft sand, great shelling, and that tucked-away feeling you only get when you arrive by boat.

Click through to explore the Better by Boat series on our website, and tag Go Boating Florida if you make the trip; we’d love to see your photos from the water!

Welcome to a collection of places and experiences that are simply better when you arrive by water. From quiet back bays and hidden islands to waterfront restaurants and social sandbars, this is your starting point for exploring Southwest Florida by boat. Each destination is paired with video inspira...