Marinas in Washington

Confirm current requirements with the state agency before your trip. Rules and fees change every season.

• Boater Education Card

  All operators of motorized vessels 15 horsepower or greater in Washington State must carry a Boater Education Card. This applies to residents and non-residents alike, with certain age and non-resident exemptions. Verify specific requirements with the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission.

• Vessel Registration

  All motorized vessels, and sailboats 16 feet or longer, used on Washington waters must be registered with the Washington State Department of Licensing. This includes displaying current registration decals and carrying the registration certificate onboard. Non-residents may operate their vessel for up to 60 days if currently registered in another state or country.

• Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Permit

  Boats registered outside Washington must buy an Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) prevention permit before operating in Washington waters; boats registered in Washington pay the AIS fee through their registration and don't need a separate permit (Oregon- and Idaho-registered boats are exempt in shared waters). This permit helps fund efforts to prevent the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels. Check with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for current regulations.

• Fishing License

  If recreational fishing is part of your boating or charter plans, a valid Washington State fishing license is required for anyone 16 years or older. Specific endorsements may be necessary for salmon, steelhead, or shellfish, and regulations vary by species, location, and season. Consult the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for detailed information and to purchase licenses.

  Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

1. 01

   1. Define Your Boating Experience

   Salt or fresh, bareboat or crewed, islands or river gorge, decide first, because Washington genuinely offers all of it. The San Juans, the Columbia, and the alpine lakes are three different trips demanding three different plans.

2. 02

   2. Fulfill Boater Education & Licensing Requirements

   Every operator needs the Washington State Boater Education Card where it applies, and a boat you bring needs current registration. Fishing on the agenda? Sort licenses and endorsements before the trip, not at the dock.

3. 03

   3. Research Marinas & Charter Options

   Shortlist marinas that fit your vessel and route, checking transient moorage and services. For charters, vet the operators and their fleets early, peak-season boats in the good cruising grounds book far ahead.

4. 04

   4. Plan Your Itinerary & Make Reservations

   Lay out the route with realistic passage times, fuel stops, and the places you actually want to see. Then lock in marina reservations and charter dates, summer availability in the popular harbors punishes procrastination.

5. 05

   5. Prepare for Washington's Variable Weather

   Layers, rain gear, and sun protection all earn their place in the same duffel here. Carry current charts, a full safety kit, and communication gear matched to the waters you're running.