05/22/2026
Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of boating season, but as experienced New England boaters know, a beautiful day on the water can change quickly.
One minute you can see the shoreline. The next, fog rolls in and everything starts to look the same.
Sea fog forms when warm, humid air moves over colder water. That setup is common in New England, especially in spring and early summer when the air starts to warm but the ocean is still cold.
This year, the ocean signals have been especially complicated. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has reported colder-than-normal bottom water in parts of the Northeast, and researchers have documented cold-water anomalies and shifting current influences in the Gulf of Maine.
Why does that matter? Because fog can arrive fast. A clear, comfortable day can turn into a dangerous low-visibility situation in minutes, especially around harbors, bays, inlets, and open water.
Before you board a boat:
🦺 Make sure everyone has a properly fitted life jacket, and wear it before conditions become stressful.
🌊 Check the NWS marine forecast before leaving, not just your regular weather app.
🚨 In reduced visibility, turn on navigation lights, use sound signals when appropriate, slow down, and avoid sudden course changes.
📍 Keep a dedicated lookout onboard, and share your float plan with someone on shore before you leave.
🧭 Use more than one navigation tool: GPS, charts, compass, and local knowledge all matter. Carry a VHF radio and know how to call for help.
🗺️ Do not rely only on your phone. Know your route, your landmarks, and your way back before you leave the dock.
👀 Keep the operator clear-headed, and make sure passengers are alert enough to help if conditions change. On the water, especially in fog, everyone may need to listen, look out, or assist quickly. Alcohol and boating do not mix with sudden weather or low visibility.
Fog can change the plan, but it does not have to ruin the day. Prepare before you leave the dock, keep your crew alert, and enjoy the start of boating season safely.
Sources: NOAA Weather, NOAA Fisheries, Gulf of Maine Research Institute, National Weather Service