The fourth of July is the unofficial start to a Pacific Northwest summer, and for a boater there’s no better place to celebrate it than on the water.

Boaters who will be using the Point Defiance Marina to move their vessels in and out of the water should expect high-usage of the boat launch on the fourth of July.

If you plan on enjoying this year’s Summer Blast Fireworks Show from the water, please be aware there will not be a log boom available this year. Vessels are required to stay at least 1500 feet clear of the fireworks barge before and during the fireworks show. Any unauthorized watercraft entering these areas will force the show to stop and will be subject to penalties issued by the U.S. Coast Guard.

All boaters should comply with state laws requiring a life jacket be available for each person on board a vessel. Children 12 years and younger must wear their life jacket while underway in a vessel 19 feet in length or shorter, unless they are in a fully enclosed area. A limited number of children’s life jackets are available for loan on a first-come first-served basis and can be found near the elevators. Please return them when finished.

Life jackets for both children and adults may be purchased at the Marina Store, which is open from 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Visitors can also find beer, soda, snacks, ice cream, and any last-minute picnic supplies they might need before heading out onto the bay.

Please boat responsibly and enjoy the 4th of July holiday!