What Boaters Should Expect on the Water This July 4 Weekend
With high heat forecast and Independence Day falling on a Friday this year, the stage is set for one of the busiest recreational boating weekends of the year. According to TowBoatUS, the nation’s largest on-water towing service, more than 2,500 boaters may require assistance during the long July 4 holiday weekend, ranging from routine tows and ungroundings to battery jumps and fuel deliveries.
“The July 4 holiday is the one time a year that nearly every boat owner tries to get out on the water—whether it’s for a barbecue raft-up or a late-night fireworks show,” said Chris Dolan, Towing Services Manager at BoatUS.
TowBoatUS, which operates more than 600 red towboats across 300 U.S. locations, typically handles about 110,000 on-water assistance calls annually. But the Fourth of July weekend stands apart for the volume and timing of distress calls. According to Dolan, spikes in service requests typically begin around 9 p.m. local time—as fireworks end and boaters attempt to start their engines, navigate home in the dark, or recover from running aground.
In addition to urgent calls for assistance, TowBoatUS also anticipates a surge in dock-to-dock towing requests on Monday, July 7, as boats that suffered mechanical issues over the weekend are transported for repairs. This level of service is typically provided under the BoatUS Unlimited Gold Towing Membership.
Tips for Boaters This Weekend
Dolan urges boaters to take time now to prepare—particularly given this summer’s forecast for above-average heat across much of the country. “Make sure your boat is ready. Check your battery, fuel, and systems ahead of time. And remember to slow down, keep a good lookout, and be patient—especially at launch ramps and when navigating crowded anchorages after dark,” he said.
And if you’re not already covered: “Now’s the time to check your towing membership,” Dolan added. “Our fleet is ready with experienced captains and the gear needed to get you home safely.”
For more information on BoatUS Unlimited Towing and Gold Membership options, visit BoatUS.com/Towing.
Sailboaters’ Holiday Weekend Safety Checklist
Be smart, be seen, and stay self-sufficient during the busiest boating weekend of the year.
Pre-Departure Check
- Inspect standing and running rigging for wear or chafe.
- Check halyards, winches, and furling gear for smooth operation.
- Test navigation lights, VHF, and GPS/chartplotter.
- Ensure anchor is ready to deploy quickly.
- Top off fuel and water tanks.
Safety Gear Review
- Confirm all PFDs are accessible and in good condition.
- Have working flares, horn/whistle, and fire extinguishers onboard.
- Bring a fully charged handheld VHF as backup.
- Stow your ditch bag with first aid, flashlight, knife, and signaling tools.
Rig for Night Return
- Double-check your tricolor or masthead anchor light.
- Pre-set your cockpit or binnacle lighting for night vision.
- Plot a course home in advance—and mark known hazards.
Dock & Mooring Readiness
- Double lines for busy marina conditions or surge.
- Have fenders ready for rafting or close-quarters tie-ups.
- Know your docking crew roles in advance—especially at night.
Smart Sailing Habits
- Re-check the forecast and thunderstorm potential.
- Reef early, especially with extra crew or guests aboard.
- Practice “sail conservatively, celebrate confidently.”
- Wear a USCG-approved PFD at all times.
Stay Chill—Literally
- Hydrate constantly; wear sun protection and lightweight clothing.
- Consider a shade solution like a boom tent or bimini extension.
- Don’t forget extra water for pets or kids aboard.
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