5 Ideal Vacation Options For Those Who Love Being Out On The Water

The feeling of getting out on the water can be both thrilling and tranquil, but not everyone is able to reside near the beach, and the high costs of boat ownership make the joys of ocean and lake activities inaccessible to many. Fortunately, there are several options for those who wish to spend their vacations submerged in cool blue seas or taking in the vast ocean through a fishing expedition. This list, presented in no particular order, offers holiday ideas for those who can't get enough of the water.

The #1 entry is Dana Wharf, located in Dana Point, California, just south of Newport Beach. The area is known for whale watching opportunities, with many visitors seeing blue, humpback, and grey whales, as well as dolphins and other sea life. One can charter a vessel for a private viewing experience, including on a 63-foot catamaran that can hold up to 59 passengers.

The Wharf is popular among anglers, as there are full- and half-day fishing excursions year-round and a week-long camp for kids learning the water sport. Those with a competitive edge might try the Halibut Derby, where prize money is awarded to the person who catches the largest five fish by weight.

Coming in at #2 is GetMyBoat, a global marketplace for watercraft rentals, yacht charters, and ocean experiences, with listings in cities around the world, including in Cartagena, Cabo San Lucas, Miami, and Honolulu. In Key West, Florida, customers can book a private sandbar and snorkeling trip.

The company was founded in San Francisco by Sascha Mornell and Raf Collado. Since many of the bookings come with an experienced captain and crew aboard, customers don't need to worry about personal boating experience or knowledge. GetMyBoat has been featured in numerous press outlets, including ABC 10 San Diego and Curiocity.

For #3, we have the Hinckley Company. Founded in Southwest Harbor, Maine, it makes customized watercraft ranging from sailboats to motor yachts. Hinckley is the only builder using carbon and Kevlar composite on its vessels from bow to stern, which the company claims gives them extra strength.

Once the customer's watercraft has arrived, the company will provide three full days of hands-on training, so the buyer is fully confident in operating every system on board. In 2017, Hinckley debuted the Dasher, the world's first fully electric luxury yacht.

Next, at #4, we present Experience! The Finger Lakes. This tour company is committed to sharing some of the best activities in Upstate New York, including wine tastings, boat rides, and hikes. It's owned and operated by local Ithacans Laura and Alan Falk, and has been recognized by TripAdvisor as the #1 tour in the region.

There are several cruise options available. On Cayuga Lake, one can embark on an osprey eco-tour, which lets guests see the birds' nesting sites and possibly catch a glimpse of the parents and fledglings flying above the water. Sunset journeys and private cruises are also available.

Rounding out our list at #5 is Tropic Star Lodge, a fishing resort in Pinas Bay, Panama. It is situated on a hillside in the Darien Jungle and can only be reached by charter plane. The lodge's remote location offers many unique fishing opportunities, allowing guests to catch black marlin, sailfish, and more.

Every room at the lodge has an ocean or garden view. On the premises are a swimming pool, restaurant, and multiple bars, all surrounded by the jungle. Those who don't wish to go fishing might try the other water activities offered, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, or snorkeling.