Boating refers to travel on water in a boat for recreational purposes. Boats may be small or big, and travel may be in a river, lake, pond, seas and oceans. Boating is considered to be an activity of leisure and relaxation.

Naturally, boating is a popular activity in coastal states. Many native coastal folks earn their living using boats for fishing and touring. Many also own several boats that they rent out to tourists. The economies of several coastal lands including Florida, Maine, California, Bahamas and Hawaii depend on the volume of boating carried out in these areas.

There are different kinds of boats. Kayaks and canoes are popular in the northern seas. These are one-person boats suited for rough cold seas. Other types are bateaux, dinghies, ferries, gondolas, fishing and racing boats. For larger groups, there are catamarans and yachts.

People can boat by themselves, or they can avail of tours conducted by tourist companies. Tourist companies specialize in long boating expeditions called cruises. On cruises, people sail the high seas in large boats drinking, eating and partying together. Cruises are very popular on festive occasions such as New Year\'s Eve and local boating festivals.

Boating f is a highly enjoyable activity and is often coupled with other forms of water recreation such as diving, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc. Boats that provide this type of recreation are large in order to accommodate all the necessary gear. During expeditions, boats often anchor at suitable spots so that people can jump in and enjoy.

Strict safety measures must be followed for people who go boating. There are usually Coast Guard and police boats patrolling the waters. It is compulsory for boaters to carry life-saving jackets, inflatable rubber floaters, rowboats, etc. Knowing how to swim is also to a boater\'s advantage.Tour operators have to get their boats checked for safety standards and acquire a license. If they fail to do so, they are prohibited from sailing their boats. Cruises are obliged to hire a guide on board ship.