Late summer is one of the best times to be on the water. The crowds thin out, the sunsets stretch a little longer and the water’s still warm enough for all-day fun. Whether you’re chasing a few more unforgettable weekends with family or squeezing in a little “me-time” before fall, now is your chance to finish the season strong.
Use this Late Summer Boating Bucket List to inspire your final adventures and ensure that your boat in in tip-top shape and ready for you to get the most of your time on the water.
1. Plan One More Big Daytrip or Weekend Escape
Before back-to-school routines and cooler weather kick in, carve out time for one last epic boating adventure. Think island hopping, a sandbar cookout or cruising to that marina restaurant you’ve talked about all summer. Plot your route, pack your gear and go all in on the experience.
2. Host a Dockside Dinner or Sunset Cruise
Sometimes the best boating memories are simple. Invite friends or neighbors for an easy sunset cruise or potluck at the dock. Add string lights, a Bluetooth speaker and your favorite floatables to set the mood. It’s an easy win, especially with the smooth ride of a Mercury-powered boat.
3. Try a New Water Activity
Stretch your skills and your fun by trying something new
- Tow sports like wakesurfing or tubing
- Paddleboarding off your boat’s swim platform
- Night fishing or stargazing from your deck
Exploring new activities keeps things exciting and helps you get even more out of your time on the water.
4. Complete In-Season Boat Maintenance
Late summer is a key time for in-season boat maintenance. Staying ahead of wear and tear can save you from bigger problems later.
- Check your fluids: Inspect and top off engine oil, power steering fluid and coolant
- Inspect the prop and lower unit: Clear debris and check for signs of damage
- Clean and protect: Give your boat a good mid-season clean and apply protective coatings if needed
- Run diagnostics: Use your SmartCraft® Connect Mobile system and the Mercury Marine app to review your engine’s performance
Staying proactive helps ensure your boat runs smoothly for the rest of the season and beyond.
5. Capture the Moments
Take family photos to capture those moments you don’t want to forget. Film that epic wake jump. Post your proudest catch. Late summer has the best light and energy for shareable memories. Be sure to use the hashtag #MoreMercury and tag us for a chance to be featured.
6. Prep for a Strong Fall Finish
If your boating season stretches into early fall, you’re not done yet. Start thinking about
- Scenic cruises for fall foliage
- Gear storage for cooler temps
- Winter storage or transport planning
- Repowering if your current engine didn’t deliver this summer
Make Every Summer Moment Count
Remember, there’s still time to squeeze the most out of summer. Whether you’re planning a big day on the water or a laid-back dockside evening, these final weeks can be the most memorable. Make every outing count with Mercury performance behind your adventure.