Recently, we got to spend an evening unwinding with Motorboatin’ 30A. With all the summer bustle out there on 30A, it was hard to imagine just a few minutes off Highway 98 we’d be driving down a winding, dirt road and hopping onto a boat and into the quiet serenity of Lake Powell, the area’s largest coastal dune lake.

As soon as the boat moved away from the dock at Watersound Origins, I was already relaxed (helped along by some champagne) and our group settled in, chatting and enjoying the beautiful scenery. We puttered around the lake, snacking on some cheese and crackers, telling stories and jokes, and it really felt like a world away.

Our captain, Matt Lauderdale, explained some of the sights around us and as sunset approached we made our way to Inlet Beach, where the lake is closest to the Gulf of Mexico. We took the boat in as far as we could go before the water got too shallow. From there, we were free to hop out into knee-high water and wade out to the Gulf of Mexico while watching the sun sink from the sky.

“People don’t realize what all is back here and how close it is to everything,” Lauderdale said. “This is kind of a unique 30A experience.”

If you’re looking for a a nice quiet sunset ride, a really memorable family experience, or even a private party, Motorboatin’ 30A can provide pretty much any kind of trip. Launderdale said he loved a recent excursion with four fathers going out to fish with their favorite cocktail. The wild and crazy bachelorette party sounded like a fun one, too.

The company also does paddle pontoon rides, attaching paddle boards to the side of the boat and taking people out to calm parts of the lake to practice and hone their paddle board technique. Lauderdale said the lakes are great for learning before tackling the waves of the Gulf.

Ready for a cruise? Check out Motorboatin’ 30A’s website. They’re also on Facebook and Instagram. Hey, you never know who you might see out there…