CLEARWATER, FL (May 1, 2026) – The National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Weather Service are celebrating 27 years of partnership for the annual National Safe Boating Week. This year’s National Safe Boating Week will be held May 16-22, 2026.
National Safe Boating Week is held annually the week before Memorial Day as part of the NSBC’s Safe Boating Campaign, a global awareness effort that encourages boaters to always be adventure ready – making the most of their boating adventure by always being prepared, having the right gear, and always wearing a life jacket. The NSBC and NOAA offer safe boating resources at www.safeboatingcampaign.com/resources/national-safe-boating-week-toolkit and https://www.weather.gov/safety/safeboating-week .
“Being prepared on the water starts with understanding the weather before you leave the dock and while you’re underway,” said Peg Phillips, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council. “As conditions on the water can change rapidly, interpreting reliable forecasts, including understanding air and water temperatures, wind speeds and gusts, advisories, storms, and fronts is essential in making informed decisions and ensuring a safe boating experience. Through our continued partnership with NOAA and the Weather-Ready Nation™ initiative, we’re committed to helping boaters stay informed, prepared, and safe on the water.”
“Before heading out on your boat, check your forecast at weather.gov,” advises A.J. Reiss, director of the Ocean and Tsunami Center at the National Weather Service (NWS). “Don’t let the forecast be an afterthought; it’s part of your essential safety gear. Remember: When thunder roars, head indoors (or ashore).”
The NWS also suggests checking for updates while you are underway and always keeping a NOAA weather radio on board as your 24/7 weather lookout to alert you when a warning is issued.
Reiss continues, “Stay prepared for any weather or water conditions you might encounter, remembering that a flexible plan is the safest plan.”
Furthermore, boaters should have at least two communications devices with them when on the water that work when wet. Satellite phones, emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRB), VHF radios, and personal locator beacons (PLB) are recommended. Some cell phone providers also offer satellite technology.
About the National Safe Boating Council
The National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) is a national catalyst for recreational boating safety and organizer of the Safe Boating Campaign, with support from boating safety advocates around the world. The Safe Boating Campaign is produced under a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard. For more information about the NSBC and its programs, please visitwww.safeboatingcouncil.org.
About NOAA
The NOAA’s National Weather Service is the official government source for weather forecasts, watches and warnings in the U.S. The National Weather Service’s marine forecasts provide timely weather information relating to U.S. coastal and offshore waters, the Great Lakes, and the open oceans to ensure the safety of life and protection of property, promote international and interstate commerce by improving the efficiency of marine operations, mitigate environmental impacts and enhance the quality of life for the United States. NOAA’s National Ocean Service provides navigation products, such as nautical charts, tides, and currents, that protect lives, strengthen the maritime economy, and position America for the future.