Marina Business Booming Despite High Gas Prices

Marina managers said 2,500 people took to the water on Saturday, the first day of boating season.

“It was a real concern for us, sure. Those of us that actually have slips out here, we were concerned we’d be able to take the boats out,” said Steve Simpson.

Boater Mark McCraw was not sure if he’d be taking to the water this early.

“Yeah, I damaged my boat motor last time I came out around November, and I did not come back out until the waters came back up,” McCraw said.

Poole recommends that boaters save their gas receipts. Boaters are being charged a highway tax, but since they are not burning the gas on the highway, that money can be recouped during tax time.

The amount averages between 42 and 50 cents savings per gallon, she said.