SmithMountainLake2019 - 21

MARINAS
If you own a boat, you can get in the water at
one of the many marinas or public ramps. If
you don't, numerous rental companies can
set you up with everything you need - and
often provide service for your boat. You
can rent anything from houseboats and jet
skis to kayaks, paddleboards, canoes and
pontoons. They also provide fishing supplies,
restaurants, picnic areas, boat storage and
launches.

EQUIPMENT RENTAL
BOATING
Recreational boating is at the center of life
at Smith Mountain Lake, with marinas, boat
rental companies and a wide variety of crafts
available for everything from gentle floats
to wind-in-your-face excitement. Marinas
and boat rental companies will give you a
course in boat operation and current Virginia
watercraft law.

PERSONAL
WATERCRAFT
Small, speedy boats built for one to three
people have become a quick way to get to
on-water destinations. If you don't own a
wave runner or jet ski, they can be rented.
Some of these boats are powerful enough
to pull skiers and tubers. Virginia has laws
specifically for PWC drivers and riders, so
be sure you are familiar with the latest
requirements. (See page 24 for regulations.)

HOUSEBOATS
If you are renting a boat,
secure your rental well
in advance, especially if
you're visiting the lake
between Memorial Day
weekend and Labor Day.

To be the captain of your own floating resort,
try a houseboat, which accommodates
families, friends and parties. The boats,
which can be rented for any period of time,
have all the amenities you'd expect: kitchen,
showers and bathroom, heat and AC, rooms
that will sleep up to 10. Some have water
slides, grills and deck furniture and all are
geared strongly toward water activities.
Reservations are recommended.
Parrot Cove Boat Rentals and Sales
16441 B.T. Washington Hwy., Moneta,
(800) 488-4516, www.parrotcove.com

If you don't own the gear for your
favorite water sport, it's easy to find and
often inexpensive to rent. There are a
number of commercial rental companies
around the lake for everything from
skis, inflatables and water toys, to
boats, wakeboards and paddleboards.
www.visitsmithmountainlake.com

PADDLEBOARDING
The paddleboard is a relatively new water
expression and many consider it the ultimate
in relaxing and family fun. Take yoga to the
next level on your paddleboard. It's a fun
way to play on the water, with the added
benefit of a full-body workout. A number of
marinas and sporting goods stores sell or
rent standup paddleboards.

WAKE SPORTS
Playing in the wake of the boat is a popular
recreation. The sports are boarding, surfing
and skating, and the lake is great for all of
them. Marinas can help you get started and
outfitted. They'll even teach you in many
instances. If a day of water skiing or wake
sports sounds like fun, contact a local marina
or sporting goods store to rent everything
you'll need.

INFLATABLES
Riding toys that can be deflated and put into
the trunk are popular among visitors. The
inflated toys can be towed or will simply float
for the casual swimmer. They are readily
available at marinas and many retail stores,
and you can get them as inner tubes, blowup dinosaurs, etc. For rental information go
to visitsmithmountainlake.com.
http://www.visitsmithmountainlake.com http://www.parrotcove.com http://www.visitsmithmountainlake.com
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