Data Report: The Busiest Boating Locations in Virginia

Dive into the busiest boating destinations across Virginia with data gleaned from thousands of boat rentals.

Table of Contents

Data Report: The Busiest Boating Locations in Virginia

Virginia offers excellent boating opportunities thanks to coastal and inland waterways, a maritime history, and a strong boating culture. It boasts over 3,000 miles of shoreline along the Chesapeake Bay and numerous rivers, including the James and Potomac. Lake Anna, Lake Gaston, and Smith Mountain Lake are some of the top boating lakes in the state, where people cruise on pontoons and powerboats during the summer months. The state is home to over 250,000 registered watercraft and provides ideal conditions for various boating-adjacent activities.

In addition to its natural beauty, Virginia provides abundant marinas, boat ramps, and docking facilities, ensuring easy access to its waterways and important services for boat owners and charter companies.

About This Report

This report analyzes booking and demand data from Getmyboat, the world’s largest boat rental marketplace, examining the top boating cities in Virginia. We reviewed the demand and number of completed rentals to rank the cities. We included data regarding pricing, the most popular style of vessel, and information about the local boating culture and attractions best enjoyed by boat.

The Top Boating Cities in Virginia

#1 - Virginia Beach

Most Popular Style of Boat: Yachts

Number of Vessels Available: 20

Ranking at #1, Virginia Beach is the busiest boating location in terms of rental demand in Virginia for the second consecutive year. Thanks to its extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay, boaters here enjoy many activities, including deep-sea fishing, sailing, jet skiing, and recreational cruising. Explore Linkhorn Bay, Broad Bay, Crystal Lake, Long Creek, and Lynnhaven Inlet from Virginia Beach. Sunset cruises, crabbing trips, dolphin watching, and cruising past waterfront mansions are top-rated activities you can enjoy by boat in Virginia Beach.

#2 - Arlington

Most Popular Style of Boat: Yachts

Number of Vessels Available: 28

Arlington might be surprising on this list, but its location along the Potomac River offers a fantastic way to see the city sights on the water. Boaters here enjoy stunning views of the monuments and landmarks of Washington, D.C., cruise under the five bridges that connect Arlington to D.C., and can enjoy an educational, historical tour of this area. The Potomac River is easily navigable, offering sailing, rowing, and power boating. Watch planes fly into the Reagan Airport or cruise into a waterfront restaurant for a meal after sightseeing on the river.

#3 - Lake Anna

Most Popular Style of Boat: Pontoons

Number of Vessels Available: 13

Lake Anna in Northern Virginia is a top-tier boating destination for a few compelling reasons. With over 200 miles of scenic shoreline winding through the public and private “arms” of the lake, boaters can explore hidden coves, sandy beaches, and the famed “Bahamas” islands—perfect for swimming, tubing, grilling, or socializing in waist‑deep waters. The lake’s varied layout means you’ll find both energetic watersport zones and quiet, secluded bays and coves.

#4 - Alexandria

Most Popular Style of Boat: Yachts

Number of Vessels Available: 24

Alexandria, Virginia, is an exceptional boating destination thanks to its unique blend of historic charm, waterfront amenities, and seamless water access to iconic regional spots. Nestled along the Potomac River in Old Town, the recently revitalized waterfront—with its buzzing marina—offers short‑term and overnight slips, complete with showers, power hookups, and even on‑dock water‑taxi connections to Georgetown, National Harbor, DC’s Wharf, and Mount Vernon. Boaters can easily pull in for a dock‑and‑dine experience at top riverside restaurants like Chart House, Ada’s on the River, Blackwall Hitch, and Vola’s Dockside—each offering stunning views, fresh seafood, and convenient slip access. You can join sailing charters or hop aboard a narrated river cruise to see DC monuments from the water, a great way to tour from a new vantage point. Whether you're seeking a leisurely lunch, an active paddle adventure, or a scenic cruise at sunset, Alexandria delivers a boating experience that’s rich in history, convenience, and riverfront allure

#5 - Gloucester Point

Most Popular Style of Boat: Sailboats

Number of Vessels Available: 24

Gloucester Point is situated along the York River and offers a serene boating experience with a fascinating history that dates back to the Revolutionary War. Boaters here enjoy calm waters ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Sailing is another popular choice here, where you can book guided sailing tours with a professional skipper. Check out the birdwatching and watch for dolphins as you cruise the river. Gloucester Point's marinas and public boat ramps provide convenient access and amenities. The city’s proximity to Yorktown adds historical appeal to the boating experience and can make for an educational tour on the water.

#6 - Norfolk

Most Popular Style of Boat: Fishing Charters

Number of Vessels Available: 8

Thanks to the Naval Station here, Norfolk is an iconic maritime city. It boasts access to the Chesapeake Bay, the Elizabeth River, and various inland waterways, with deep-water ports and marinas catering to various boating activities. Here, you can enjoy sailing, fishing, and yacht charters. Norfolk's waterfront area, particularly around Waterside District and Town Point Park, provides ample docking facilities and access to amenities for boaters. You can see many historical sights by boat, including the Naval Station, a popular destination for boat tours in Norfolk.

In Summary

Virginia offers diverse boating opportunities across its busiest locations, each characterized by unique geographical features, historical significance, and recreational amenities. Whether along the Atlantic coastline, inland rivers, or bay areas, boaters in Virginia can find an array of activities and experiences tailored to their interests, making it a premier destination for water recreation enthusiasts.

About Getmyboat

Getmyboat is the biggest marketplace for boat charters and rentals worldwide.

Launched in 2013 with the vision of making the joy of boating accessible to everyone, the company has since grown into the largest boat rental and charter marketplace globally, with over 150,000 listings in 184 countries covering 9,300 destinations.

By giving a platform to both individual boat owners and professional charter businesses, Getmyboat makes the experience of getting out on the water more accessible, from a weekend jet ski rental in the local lake to a vacation yacht charter to a bachelor party pontoon, and everything in between.

Citing this Report

Media professionals are welcome to utilize this data for reporting, with a citation and link to Getmyboat. If you have any questions or need any other data not found in the report below, reach out to pr@getmyboat.com. Our data and press team can provide further analysis, press quotes, and any other information needed.