Boating on Lake Cumberland
Boating on Lake Cumberland
Lake Cumberland at it's largest, has a surface area of over 63,000 acres, 1255 miles of shore line, and boating ranging from yachts to sailboats to speed boats to fishing crafts (rent or bring your own). Water activities include skiing, boarding, tubing, sailing and swimming. Fishing is year' round.
For those who plan on spending time on the water, here are some courtesy and safety tips that will ensure everyone a great time. (If you are new to the Lake, a new boat owner or if you have purchased a personal watercraft -- if you have children who are operating these water vehicles, make sure you read your manuals and have your children read them.)
- Be aware of those around you.
- Drive on the right side of the channel or cove.
- Look before you turn.
- Boats approaching on the starboard (right)have the right of way.
- Wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket while water skiing and while operating a personal watercraft.
- Turn your lights on 30 minutes before sunset.
- Operate your boat at a safe & prudent speed.
- Newer boats have a safety cut off switch. Use it.
- Upon refueling, check your engine compartment for spillage. Use you blower to expel fumes.
- Get a voluntary inspection of your boat. The Water Patrol and the Coast Guard Auxiliary provides this free of charge.
- Take a boating safety course. (Available through the Water Patrol, the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Power Squadron.) Remember, experience is not always the best teacher.
- Equip your boat with an amber strobe light to use in case of a nighttime emergency. Also carry the Coast Guard recommended orange flag to signal distress during daylight hours.
- Don't drink and drive. A designated driver is as important on the water as on the land.
