Recreational boating is a popular activity in the United States, with nearly 12 million registered vessels. Florida leads the way as the state with the most boats. Alongside these motorized vessels, millions of people also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and sailing, with 18.6 million kayakers and 9.6 million canoers reported.
While boating can be a fun way to spend time outdoors, safety is a major concern. In 2020, the U.S. Coast Guard reported over 5,200 boating incidents, resulting in 767 deaths and more than 3,190 injuries. Property damage from these accidents reached about $62.5 million.
Alcohol consumption is a significant factor in boating accidents. In 2021, it was linked to 86 fatalities, making up 16% of all boating-related deaths. Other common issues include operator inattention, inexperience, and excessive speed. The statistics show that a large number of these tragedies could be prevented. For instance, 77% of those who died in boating accidents had not received any formal boating safety instruction. In contrast, only 12% of fatalities occurred among those who had completed a nationally recognized safety course.
Drowning is a leading cause of death in these incidents. When the cause of death was known, 75% of victims drowned, and a staggering 86% of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets. Additionally, most of the boating accidents involved smaller vessels, with eight out of ten victims using boats shorter than 21 feet.
To operate a boat in the U.S., all states require some form of education. This includes learning about laws, safe practices, and regulations for boating. As more people take to the water, ensuring safety through education and awareness is crucial for preventing accidents and saving lives.