Exploring Boat Launches In Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee, the second-largest lake in Georgia, is a haven for boating enthusiasts. With its sparkling waters, countless coves, inlets, and creeks, it offers a perfect blend of quiet coves and wide-open waters. For those looking to venture into boating on Lake Oconee, there are numerous options available, including boat rentals, purchases, and storage facilities. The lake also boasts several full-service marinas that cater to all types of water enthusiasts, offering convenience and a range of amenities. Before setting sail, it is important to secure a boating license and registration, complete a safety course, and equip your boat with essential safety gear and navigational tools. Lake Oconee provides an enticing opportunity for both locals and tourists to explore its beauty and create lasting memories.

Marinas and boat ramps

Lake Oconee has a wide range of marinas and boat ramps to choose from, catering to both locals and visitors. Whether you're looking for boat rentals, storage facilities, or fuel stations, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs. Here is an overview of some of the top marinas and boat ramps around Lake Oconee:

Anchors Marina

Located at 1054 Lake Oconee Parkway in Eatonton, Anchors Marina is your one-stop shop for all things lake-related. They offer boat rentals, including pontoon boats, wake boats, and deck boats, as well as top-notch docking facilities and storage solutions. The marina also provides fuelling services, maintenance, and a fully stocked retail shop with boating essentials, apparel, and accessories.

The Boathouse Marina at Harbor Club

For those seeking a premier marina experience, the Boathouse Marina at 3991 Walker Church Road in Greensboro is the perfect choice. With a storage capacity of 300 slips, valet assistance, fuel discounts for members, and a convenient store, this marina caters to all your boating needs. The adjacent Boathouse Restaurant is one of the only "boat-up" dining venues on the lake.

Blue Springs Marina

Blue Springs Marina, situated at 1271 Blue Springs Drive in Buckhead, is a comprehensive destination for boating and recreational vehicle needs. They offer boat and RV storage, non-ethanol high-test gas, full-hookup campsites, and a convenient boat ramp. You can also stock up on bait, snacks, and beer, as well as fishing tackle for a successful fishing trip.

Fish Tale Marina

Fish Tale Marina, located at 891 Greensboro Road NE in Eatonton, offers a wide range of services and amenities. Their 18,000-square-foot storage facility ensures your boat's safety and security. Additionally, they provide Marathon fuel to keep your vessel ready for your next adventure.

Sun Life Marina

Sun Life Marina, found at 144 Collis Marina Road in Eatonton, caters to boaters and water enthusiasts alike. They offer various services, including dry stack and covered storage, wet slips for staging and fuelling, efficient boat handling with a Wiggins Bull forklift, and secure bay storage barns. The marina also features a four-pump dispenser fuelling station and a well-stocked store with marine supplies, fishing tackle, and water activities gear.

Sugar Creek Marina

Sugar Creek Marina, located at 353 Parks Mill Road in Buckhead, is a one-stop shop for all your boating needs. They offer a bait and tackle shop, a fuel dock, a reliable boat ramp, and secure boat storage options. Whether you're an experienced angler or a casual boater, Sugar Creek Marina has everything you need for a hassle-free day on the water.

The Waterfront on Lake Oconee

The Waterfront on Lake Oconee, situated at 121 Collis Marina Road in Eatonton, boasts a comprehensive range of amenities. They feature a secure 220-slip enclosed boat storage building, 30 wet slips for staging and fuelling, and a 20,000-pound Wiggins Bull forklift for efficient boat launching and retrieval. Additionally, they provide bay storage barns, ample parking, dock carts, dockhand assistance, and a four-dispenser fuelling station. During the summer, guests can enjoy Georgia Butts Barbeque on the deck, making it an ideal destination for boating and relaxation.

Boatworks Lake Oconee

Boatworks Lake Oconee, independently owned and operated by Matt Misuraca, is located at 2450 Parks Mill Road in Buckhead. They specialize in boat engine repair, offering a diverse range of services with a commitment to quality and durability. Boatworks also provides storage options for boats, RVs, trailers, and other recreational vehicles, as well as a wide selection of boat parts and accessories.

Watersports Central at Oconee

Watersports Central, located at 1011 Park Trace in Greensboro, is a full-service provider for all water enthusiasts. Their skilled technicians offer boat maintenance, detailing, engine rebuilding, and annual winterization services. They also have a wide selection of new and used boats for sale, catering to both beginner and experienced boaters.

Oconee Wild Watersports

Oconee Wild Watersports, found at 1133 Greensboro Road in Eatonton, offers a variety of rental options, including pontoons, jet skis, kayaks, paddleboards, and top-of-the-line boats. They provide delivery services, regular fleet upgrades, and the option to hire captains, ensuring a fun and safe experience on the water.

Young Harris Water Sports

For guests of The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, Young Harris Water Sports offers exclusive premium watercraft rentals, including wake boats, tri-toons, ski boats, and jet skis. Their offerings provide a luxurious and thrilling way to explore the beauty of Lake Oconee.

Boat rentals

Lake Oconee has a wide variety of boat rental options for visitors and locals to enjoy. With countless coves, inlets, creeks, and 374 miles of shoreline to explore, renting a boat is a great way to experience the lake.

Anchors Marina

Located at 1054 Lake Oconee Pkwy, Eatonton, Anchors Marina is a one-stop shop for all your boating needs. They offer a diverse range of rental options, including pontoon boats, wake boats, and deck boats. They also provide docking facilities, storage solutions, fueling services, and maintenance.

The Boathouse Marina at Harbor Club

This marina, situated at 3991 Walker Church Road, Greensboro, boasts storage capacity for up to 300 slips, making it ideal for high-profile watercraft. They offer valet assistance and fuel discounts for members, and their convenient store ensures you have everything you need for a day on the lake.

Blue Springs Marina

At 1271 Blue Springs Drive, Buckhead, Blue Springs Marina is a comprehensive boating and recreational vehicle facility. They offer boat and RV storage, non-ethanol high-test gas, full-hookup campsites, and a convenient boat ramp. You can also stock up on bait, snacks, and beer, and browse their selection of fishing tackle.

Fish Tale Marina

With an impressive 18,000-square-foot storage facility, Fish Tale Marina at 891 Greensboro Road NE, Eatonton, will keep your boat safe and secure. They also provide Marathon fuel to keep your vessel ready for adventures on the water.

Sun Life Marina

Sun Life Marina, found at 144 Collis Marina Road, Eatonton, caters to boaters and water enthusiasts alike. They offer dry stack and covered storage, wet slips for staging and fueling, a forklift for efficient boat handling, and secure bay storage barns. They also have a four-pump dispenser fueling station and stock marine supplies, fishing tackle, and water activities gear.

Sugar Creek Marina

Sugar Creek Marina, located at 353 Parks Mill Road, Buckhead, provides a full-service experience with a bait and tackle shop, fuel dock, boat ramp, and secure boat storage options. Whether you're an angler or a leisure boater, they have everything you need for a great day on the water.

Oconee Wild Watersports

Conveniently situated in the heart of Lake Oconee at 1133 Lake Oconee Parkway, Eatonton, Oconee Wild Watersports offers pontoon and jet ski rentals. They have been serving the Lake Oconee community since 2012 and provide a range of water sport equipment, including skis, tubes, and wakeboards.

Young Harris Water Sports

Young Harris Water Sports is the official watersports provider for The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee. They offer a wide variety of rental boats and jet skis, including wake boats, tri-toons, ski boats, and more. They also provide captained services and guided fishing excursions.

With so many rental options available, you're sure to find the perfect boat to suit your needs and explore the sparkling waters of Lake Oconee.

Boat safety and maintenance

Lake Oconee is a boating paradise, with countless coves, inlets, creeks, and full-service marinas. To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience on the water, there are several safety precautions and maintenance tips to keep in mind.

Boat Safety:

• Always conduct a vessel safety check before heading out. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary provides a simple 15-point checklist as a guide.
• Ensure that everyone on board wears a properly fitted life jacket, especially if they plan to participate in water sports like tubing, water skiing, or wakeboarding.
• Understand and obey navigation rules and laws. Be mindful of buoys and other navigation aids, and pay attention to no-wake zones and the 100-foot law, which regulates speed near other boats, docks, bridges, etc.
• Avoid drinking alcohol when boating, especially if you are the operator. It impairs your judgment and puts everyone at risk. Operating a boat while intoxicated is a federal offense and can result in a hefty fine.
• Stay updated on weather conditions before and during your outing. Use a radar app on your smartphone to monitor for thunderstorms and rapidly changing weather.

Boat Maintenance:

• Regular boat maintenance and engine repair are crucial to keep your vessel in peak condition. Lake Oconee has several reputable boat repair services, such as Boatworks Lake Oconee, with experienced mechanics who can handle various marine vessels.
• Utilize the full-service marinas available at Lake Oconee. These marinas offer boat storage, maintenance, and provisioning, making boat ownership more manageable.
• Consider taking advantage of the boat engine repair and maintenance services offered by companies like Watersports Central at Oconee, who can ensure your watercraft is running smoothly and efficiently.
• If you require salvage assistance, TowBoatUS Lake Oconee provides services such as vessel recovery, refloating, and towing to a safe harbor, along with spill containment for fuel and oil.

By following these safety guidelines and maintaining your boat through regular checks and reputable services, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience on Lake Oconee.

Boating licenses

Lake Oconee, the second-largest reservoir in Georgia, offers a picturesque setting for boating enthusiasts. With its serene waters, Lake Oconee spans over 48,000 acres and provides 350 miles of shoreline to explore. Before embarking on your aquatic adventures, it's crucial to understand the boating regulations and licensing requirements in place. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on Lake Oconee.

To operate a boat on Lake Oconee, you must comply with specific regulations and obtain the necessary licenses and registrations. Here's a step-by-step guide to obtaining your boating license and ensuring a safe and legal experience on the lake:

• Boater Safety Education: Any person born on or after January 1, 1998, who intends to operate a motorized vessel on Lake Oconee, is legally required to obtain a Boater Safety Certificate or a Boater Education Card. This requirement can be fulfilled by completing an approved boating safety course, which will provide valuable knowledge to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all passengers.
• Registration with Georgia DNR: All boats with engines and sailboats over 12 feet in length must be registered with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) before they can be used on Lake Oconee or other state waters. This involves completing a registration application, paying a fee, and providing proof of ownership of the vessel.
• Vessel Inspection and Safety Equipment: It is the responsibility of the boat operator to ensure that the vessel is in safe working condition and equipped with the necessary safety gear. This includes items such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and a first-aid kit. Regular inspections of your boat are highly recommended to minimize risks and ensure all essential safety equipment is on board.
• Insurance Coverage: While not explicitly mentioned as a requirement, it is strongly advised that boat operators obtain the appropriate insurance coverage. This is crucial to protect yourself, your passengers, and your business in the event of any unforeseen incidents or accidents on the water.

Marinas and Boat Launch Options:

Lake Oconee offers a variety of marinas and boat launch options to accommodate boaters of all kinds. Here are some top choices:

• Anchors Marina: Located at 1054 Lake Oconee Pkwy, Eatonton, Anchors Marina is a one-stop shop for all your boating needs. They offer boat rentals, state-of-the-art marina services, and a fully stocked retail shop for all your boating essentials.
• The Boathouse Marina at Harbor Club: With a storage capacity of 300 slips, valet assistance, fuel discounts for members, and a convenient store, The Boathouse Marina is a premier marina on Lake Oconee. It is located at 3991 Walker Church Road, Greensboro, and is open year-round.
• Blue Springs Marina: Blue Springs Marina, located at 1271 Blue Springs Drive, Buckhead, offers boat and RV storage, non-ethanol high-test gas, full-hookup campsites, and a convenient boat ramp. They also provide bait, snacks, and beer, making them a one-stop shop for a hassle-free day on the water.
• Fish Tale Marina: This full-service marina, located at 891 Greensboro Road NE, Eatonton, provides an 18,000-square-foot storage facility and Marathon fuel to ensure your vessel is always ready for adventure.
• Sun Life Marina: Sun Life Marina, found at 144 Collis Marina Road, Eatonton, offers a range of services, including dry stack and covered storage, wet slips for staging and fueling, and efficient boat handling with their Wiggins Bull forklift. They also provide ample parking, dock carts, dockhand assistance, and a fueling station.
• Public Boat Ramps: Lake Oconee provides numerous public boat ramps, such as Lawrence Shoals, Long Shoals, and Parks Ferry, that are easily accessible to both locals and tourists. These ramps facilitate a range of water activities and are great for those looking to explore the lake.

Remember, it is essential to follow all local boating regulations, including adhering to designated docks and boating areas for commercial activities, possessing the necessary registrations and passes, and complying with vessel and captain requirements. By following these guidelines and obtaining the proper boating license and registration, you can confidently set sail on Lake Oconee and create unforgettable memories on the water.

Boat tours

Lake Oconee is a beautiful and serene lake located in Georgia, offering a perfect setting for boating enthusiasts. With its sparkling waters, countless coves, inlets, creeks, and fishing spots, it's a haven for those seeking adventure or tranquillity.

Boat Tour Options:

Lake Oconee Boat Tours

If you're looking for a private and luxurious cruising experience, Lake Oconee Boat Tours is an excellent choice. They offer tours on a 23-foot Barletta Tri-Toon with a powerful 250 HP motor. You can relax and enjoy the ride, as they take care of everything, from piloting to safety measures. Their tours can be customised to your interests, and they offer a range of activities like sunset cruises, full moon cruises, girls' day out, family reunions, and even treasure hunts on Pirate Island.

Marina Boat Rentals

Several marinas around Lake Oconee, such as Anchors Marina, The Boathouse Marina, and Oconee Wild Watersports, offer boat rentals for those who want to explore the lake independently. These marinas provide a variety of rental options, including pontoon boats, wake boats, deck boats, jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards.

Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

For those seeking an exclusive and luxurious experience, the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds offers premium watercraft rentals through Young Harris Water Sports. Their options include wake boats, tri-toons, ski boats, and jet skis, perfect for enjoying sunrise or sunset cruises on the lake.

Boating Essentials:

Before embarking on your boat tour, ensure you have the necessary safety gear and navigational tools. A boating license and registration with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources are mandatory. It is also recommended to complete a boating safety course to prevent accidents. Stock up on life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, a first-aid kit, and a VHF radio for emergencies.

Lake Oconee's Attractions:

As you cruise Lake Oconee, you'll discover a variety of attractions and natural wonders. Explore its islands, coves, and lakeside communities. Golf enthusiasts will delight in the seven championship golf courses, including five of the top-15 courses in Georgia. Nature lovers will relish the peaceful coves and inlets, perfect for fishing or simply enjoying the serene surroundings.

So, whether you choose a guided tour or set sail on your own, Lake Oconee promises a memorable boating experience with stunning views and endless possibilities for exploration and fun.

Frequently asked questions