Chautauqua County is a very popular destination for boating, paddle sports, and fishing. Enjoy cruising around the lakes, kayaking, canoeing, SUP, sailing, water skiing, and fishing. Each of the five area lakes--Chautauqua, Erie, Findley, Cassadaga, and Bear--has at least one NYS DEC boat launch. There are also full-service marinas on Lake Erie and Chautauqua Lake.
As of 1/1/2025, New York State requires all motorized boaters to carry a Safe Boating Certificate from their home state or New York while operating. For those who do not already have a Safe Boating Certificate from their home state, boaters can earn their certificate by taking a classroom course with certified New York State instructors or through several other approved online courses. Certificates issued by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, America's Boating Club, US Powerboating (these classes are also offered by Waterfront | SUNY Maritime College) and any NASBLA certified course from other states are recognized.
Visitors may rent and operate a boat without obtaining a boating safety certificate. Boat rental staff must provide basic instruction and safety information prior to the renters leaving the dock. Visitors who possess a valid state driver's license may rent power and pontoon boats, as well as certain non-motorized boats, at half-day, full-day, or multi-day rates. Most marinas also rent additional equipment including, kayaks, tubes, lily pads, wakeboards, and more!
Those operating non-motorized boats, such as canoes or kayaks, are not required to take a safe boating course.
Information for Safe, Legal, and Environmentally-Friendly Boating
Safe Boating Course Information
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