The Lake Champlain boating experience is unlike any other, and the bustling community of Plattsburgh, NY, provides the perfect launch point for your lake adventures in 2024. The question is, where will you lay anchor while you refuel and recharge after a day out on Lake Champlain? We’ve got you covered.
Plattsburgh Boat Basin is a fully equipped facility that offers 24/7 security, fuel stations, a supply shop, on-site restaurant, and so much more. Our Plattsburgh marina team is also very familiar with all that Lake Champlain and the culturally rich city has to offer.
To help you make the most of your time on Lake Champlain, here are our top recommendations for exploring this scenic area.
Why Lake Champlain?
Spanning over 120 miles and touching New York, Vermont, and Quebec, Lake Champlain is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty. It’s a haven for both seasoned sailors and recreational boaters, offering diverse activities from leisurely cruises to fishing expeditions.
Boating Basics on Lake Champlain
If you are new to Lake Champlain boating, it’s important to brush up on regulations and safety best practices, even as a seasoned boat captain.
International Regulations
If you plan to visit Plattsburgh Boat Basin from Canada, make sure to understand border crossing regulations and have the necessary documentation on hand. For our New York and Vermont friends, you’ll need to consider Canada's laws before you enter their waters.
Lake Champlain Weather
Remember, the lake’s weather can change rapidly. Always check the forecast before heading out on the water, and give yourself extra time to avoid any storms.
Water Depth
While Lake Champlain’s waters are normally calm and boater-friendly, it is a huge body of water with 435 square miles of surface. The lake has an average depth of 64 feet but has several areas that are much deeper. One spot, located between Charlotte, VT, and Essex, NY, is 400 feet deep.
Safety Precautions
So, make sure you and all your passengers are wearing your life jackets. Even if everyone on board is a skilled swimmer, it never hurts to have some extra protection. Also, familiarize yourself with the lake’s navigation charts. Pay attention to marked channels, and stay aware of underwater hazards.
What Lake Champlain Boating Has to Offer
Lake Champlain is a fishing paradise, home to over 80 species of fish, including bass, trout, and pike. Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying it for the first time, the lake offers a fun fishing experience.
The lake’s expansive size and depth also make it perfect for water skiing, wakeboarding, and paddleboarding. Even on a busy day, there is plenty of open water for you to have some fun.
You’ll want to explore the lake’s numerous islands, each with its unique charm. Valcour Island is one of our favorites, as it is the largest and one of the most historically significant. The island spans 968 acres and is located to the southeast of Plattsburgh Boat Basin.
The island is home to the Bluff Point Lighthouse and the Seton House. The Battle of Valcour Island took place in Valcour Bay. This event was a key naval battle during the Revolutionary War.
Schuyler Island is the second biggest on Lake Champlain. It spans 161 acres and is about one mile from the Port Douglas Boat Launch. During the Battle of Valcour Island, the Colonial Naval Fleet spent the night on Schuyler Island after avoiding the British blockade.
Come Stay With Us
Conveniently located in Plattsburgh, NY, Plattsburgh Boat Basin is the perfect stop for restocking supplies, enjoying local cruising, or simply taking a break from the water.
Our marina offers a range of amenities, including charging stations, large boat slips, fuel services, on-site restaurant, The Naked Turtle, and a supply shop. We even have 24/7 security, giving you peace of mind while you recharge after a full day of Lake Champlain boating adventures.
Ready to make memories in Plattsburgh, and enjoy all that Lake Champlain has to offer? We have daily, weekly, and monthly options available, so you can lay anchor with us for as long as you’d like. Book your slip at Plattsburgh Boat Basin today, and come stay a while!