Get out on the water with Barrier-Free Boating!
Discover the joy of being on the water with our barrier-free boating events. Whether you were raised on the water or you’ve never been on a boat, our accessible boats and adaptive equipment make it easy for everyone to enjoy.
Event Highlights:
- Accessible Boats: Adaptive designs to accommodate various disabilities.
- Trained Instructors: Professional guidance for a safe experience.
- Beautiful Locations: Enjoy boating on serene lakes and rivers.
- Making Community: Connect with others who share your passion.
Set sail with us and experience the tranquility and excitement of boating.
Barrier Free Boating became a 501(c)3 organization and was created as the result of Mr. Al Sorge of Otter Lake, Michigan who learned how difficult outdoor recreation such as boating or fishing could be for a wheelchair bound individual by sharing these activities with his life long friend. Al and his wife Lois pioneered this mission and for many years brought the community together and orged a vision that brought joy and memories to thousands of people. The goal at Barrier Free Boating is to provide the means for the physically handicapped individual to experience outdoor recreational activities without great difficulty. Thanks to grants from the Lapeer County Community Foundation (LCCF), The Filippis Foundation and donations from many other individuals and businesses, a new 648 square foot wheelchair accessible dock was constructed and installed at the Otter Lake Village Park. A gala Grand Opening was held June 8, 2013 complete with a free pig roast, food and pontoon rides. No tax dollars were used in the construction of this dock or purchase of the boat, therefore the dock is open to the public. Barrier Free Boating is now traveling near and far – from Otter Lake to Northern Michigan – growing the opportunities for Barrier free Boating and Lasting Memories.
