Boat Smart Campaign 2026
Boat Smart.
Stay Safe
Everything a new boater needs to get on the water with confidence — and come home safely.
Safety essentials
Know Before You Go
Five rules every beginner should know before leaving the dock.
Always Wear Your Life Jacket
A life jacket only works if you're wearing it. Make sure every person on board has a properly fitted PFD.
Check the Weather
Conditions can change fast on the water. Check forecasts before departure and watch for sudden storms.
Use Navigation Lights
Required from sunset to sunrise and in low visibility. Know your port (red) from starboard (green).
File a Float Plan
Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back. It's the simplest safety net you can create.
Boat Alcohol-Free
Operating a boat under the influence is illegal and deadly. Keep the celebration on shore.
Know the Law
Brianna's Law
New York State's landmark boating safety education requirement
Brianna's Law was signed in honor of Brianna Lieneck, an 11-year-old girl killed in a boating accident on the Great South Bay in 2005. The law requires all motorized boat operators in New York State to complete an approved boating safety course — phased in by birth year, with full compliance required by 2025.
Who it applies to
All operators of motorized vessels on New York State waters, regardless of vessel size.
What's required
Completion of a NASBLA-approved boating safety course and carrying proof of completion on board.
Why it matters
Operator error is the leading cause of boating accidents. Education saves lives — Brianna's Law makes it the law.
Boat Smart Campaign 2026
Ready to Make Every Trip a Safe One?
Join thousands of boaters taking the pledge to put safety first this season. Sign up for our free safety workshop and get your Boat Smart certification.
Next event
August 9, 2026
Location
Nationwide — Find a location near you
Free to attend — no experience required
Real boaters
From the Water
I took my first boating trip last summer. The Boat Smart resources gave me the confidence to actually enjoy it instead of worrying the whole time.
Marcus T.
First-time boater, Lake Michigan
Filing a float plan felt like overkill until a storm rolled in unexpectedly. Now I never skip it. Simple habit, huge peace of mind.
Priya R.
Weekend boater, Chesapeake Bay
My kids are on the water with me every weekend. Knowing we're all properly equipped and following the rules makes every trip better.
Dave & Sarah K.
Family boaters, Lake Tahoe
Your next adventure starts with knowing the rules.
Download our free safety checklist and be ready before you leave the dock.