First Boat North Carolina boating guide

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Boating by State: North Carolina

Online Map of Marinas in North Carolina Online Charts

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Additional North Carolina Boating Resources

North Carolina Coastal Boating Guide
Order or download this free guide that features a map of the state’s coastline, along with information about marinas, museums, boating access areas, recreation, fishing piers, wildlife refuges and other coastal resources.

North Carolina's wildlife guide includes boating information

North Carolina Boating Regulations from NCwaterways.com

Public Boat Ramps On and Near the Outer Banks: Camden, Currituck, Dare and Hyde Counties

Boating in North Carolina

Hatteras Yachts, Fountain Powerboats, Tiara Yachts, Albemarle Boats and many other boat manufacturers have chosen North Carolina as their home for a reason. While navigating the waters of the Outer Banks can be challenging, the mild climate and an abundant access to lakes, rivers, streams and the Atlantic Ocean make NC a boater's paradise.

North Carolina Boating Regulations

A North Carolina Boating License is required for anyone under 26 years of age who operates a powered watercraft of 10hp or over on state waters.

North Carolina Age Restrictions

No person under 14 years of age may operate a personal watercraft (PWC).

Children under 13 years of age on the deck or cockpit must be wearing their personal flotation device (life jacket) while the vessel is underway.

BoaterExam.com offers an online course and exam for free, approved by the state of North Carolina. Pass the test, and you can purchase and download a temporary certificate which is valid immediately until your permanent North Carolina boat license is mailed to you within two to three weeks.

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