Eco-Friendly Boating: How to Enjoy the Lake Responsibly
Lake Havasu is a slice of desert paradise—clear blue water, stunning scenery, and endless sunshine. With its natural beauty and recreational appeal, it’s no wonder boating is one of the top activities here. But as more people explore this incredible lake, the need for eco-conscious boating practices has never been more important.
Whether you’re renting a pontoon, cruising on a jet ski, or captaining your own boat, here are simple and effective ways to keep Lake Havasu clean, safe, and beautiful for generations to come.
1. Don’t Let Trash Sink Your Day
One of the easiest ways to boat responsibly is to pack out what you pack in. Trash left behind doesn’t just look bad—it can harm wildlife and pollute the water.
Bring a designated trash bag or container onboard
Pick up litter you find near your dock or launch area
Recycle cans, bottles, and plastics when you return to shore
At Havasu Adventure Company, we provide trash bags with all rentals, and we encourage our guests to help us leave the lake cleaner than we found it.
2. Fuel Smart, Spill Less
Fuel spills are one of the leading sources of pollution in recreational boating. While fueling up:
Never top off your tank—leave a little room for expansion
Use absorbent pads to catch any drips
Check for fuel line leaks before heading out
Our rental equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to prevent leaks and environmental hazards. If you see a spill, notify marina staff or lake authorities immediately.
3. Respect the Wildlife and Wake Zones
Lake Havasu is home to a variety of birds, fish, and other wildlife. Be mindful of:
No-wake zones, especially near nesting areas or in coves
Keeping a respectful distance from animals, especially waterfowl
Avoiding loud music and boat noise near shoreline habitats
Slowing down in sensitive areas not only protects animals—it also keeps erosion in check and creates a smoother ride for everyone.
4. Use Eco-Friendly Products
Switch to biodegradable cleaning products, sunscreen, and soaps when boating. Many standard sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage aquatic life.
Look for reef-safe or lake-safe sunscreens
Wipe down your boat with non-toxic cleaners
Avoid dumping any gray water into the lake
At our rental center, we offer suggestions for environmentally-safe gear and products that won’t harm Lake Havasu’s ecosystem.
5. Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species
Before launching into the water, check your boat and gear for invasive plants or organisms, especially if you’ve recently been on a different body of water.
Rinse your boat, anchor, and equipment
Drain any standing water from coolers, bait wells, or bilges
Dry everything completely before your next lake day
Arizona has specific guidelines to stop the spread of quagga mussels, which are harmful to boats and water infrastructure. Following these steps is both eco-friendly and law-abiding.
6. Educate Your Crew
Make eco-friendly boating part of the conversation. Share your knowledge with friends and family onboard so everyone understands the impact of their actions.
At Havasu Adventure Company, we’re committed to sustainable tourism. When you rent with us, you’ll get a quick eco-orientation along with your safety briefing—because protecting Lake Havasu is something we all play a part in.
Love the Lake, Leave No Trace
Boating on Lake Havasu is about freedom, fun, and unforgettable views. But with great adventure comes great responsibility. By taking a few small steps—like picking up trash, respecting wildlife, and preventing spills—you can help keep Lake Havasu thriving.
Let’s all do our part to enjoy the lake without leaving a mark.