Marina Business Booming Despite High Gas Prices

Raleigh, N.C. — Business at Rollingview Marina on Falls Lake is booming again, despite high gas prices to fuel boats.

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

“The word’s getting out about the lake being full. It’s a combination of the weather and the water,” said Amy Poole, owner of Rollingview Marina.

Many boaters were not sure when they’d get back out on the water. Until recent rains, they believed the drought could ruin their favorite leisure activity this summer.

“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.

Falls Lake may be full, but boaters are still facing high gas prices. The marina is charging $3.80 per gallon.

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.