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The 21 Best Gifts for Boaters of 2024

Any hardcore boater or angler will love these gift ideas

By Travis Smola | Updated Jan 4, 2024 10:12 AM EST

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It can be overwhelming to find the perfect present for the boater in your life. After all, there are thousands of boating accessories and gadgets out there—and chances are your giftee wants almost all of them. But how are you to choose? To help, our experts narrowed down all the best boating gifts this year below.

We covered everything from Costa sunglasses and Free Fly hoodies to Yeti coolers and Xtratuf deck boots . You’ll also find more practical gift ideas, like a weather radio and super powerful spotlight. Most importantly, most of the recommendations have been personally tested by the Field & Stream staff for quality and reliability. No matter what you choose, you can’t go wrong with any of the best gifts for boaters on this list.

Best Gifts for Boaters

Free fly elevate hoodie.

The Elevate has quickly become one of my favorite sunshirts. The UPF 30+ sun protection is perfect for someone who burns as easily as I do in the sun. It is light and airy and includes a hood and sun cuff to protect the tops of your hands.

Yeti Tundra 45

The Tundra impressed me in my rotomolded cooler test earlier this year after holding ice for six days in hot and humid conditions. It will easily keep drinks or a fresh catch of fish cold all day until it’s time to head in for dinner. This cooler is durable, too—I threw it off the top of an 8-foot ladder more than a dozen times with hardly any signs of wear.

Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boots

A good pair of deck boots is essential when you’re at sea. These Xtratuf ankle deck boots are arguably the most popular pair out there—and for good reason. They’re lightweight yet heavy-duty, with a slip-resistant sole for traction and a breathable lining that keeps your feet dry for hours.

Bajio Sunglasses

I’ve been a fan of Bajio for years due to their comfort, durability, and versatility. The fishing sunglasses come in a variety of frame styles and lens colors to cover just about any type of water and cloud conditions. I love the clarity and enhanced colors that I get with the Bales Beach style.

Helly Hansen Crew Sailing Vest

If you’re shopping for a sailor, chances are they’ve been coveting some Helly Hansen gear—like this Crew vest, which is one of the brand’s most popular pieces. Our tester loves how wind- and waterproof it is, keeping them warm and dry on the water. We also like that the wool lining is soft yet breathable.

Adventure Medical Sportsman First Aid Kit

The Sportsman Series from Adventure Medical is outfitted with nearly anything one could need in an emergency. There are more than 400 pieces in this first aid kit for treating everything from small cuts to burns and other traumatic injuries. It’s great peace of mind and a must-have for every boat on the water.

Orion Safety Flare

Speaking of safety, an emergency signaling system is a great gift, and Orion makes some of the best flare systems today. This 12-gauge launcher comes with four red aerial flares that burn bright red and produce thick smoke for signaling emergency responders.

Nebo Luxtreme

This 780-lumen light is water-resistant and features multiple lighting modes for different scenarios on the water. The magnetic base is extremely helpful when you need light in a tight space and have nowhere to set the light down.

Free Fly Latitude Pants

The Free Fly Latitude pants are shockingly light and airy, keeping your legs protected from the sun during hot days on the water. I wore these pants all summer and was always amazed with how comfortable they are even during the most humid of conditions. I also like the waistband, which stays secure without digging into my skin.

Engel HD20 Heavy Duty Soft Cooler

After testing the Engel HD20 soft cooler, I was impressed with its excellent ice retention capabilities and stylish looks. Incredibly rugged and well-insulated, it’s capable of holding ice through an entire day on the water. It’s a great option for the friend or relative who’s in desperate need of a new way to keep drinks cold on the water.

Oru Inlet Kayak

Kayaks are great fun on the water. But the storage of a huge chunk of plastic is not practical for many people, especially if they don’t have a garage. The Oru Inlet folding kayak solves that. It folds up into a compact package that easily slips under a bed or in a closet. It’s a nifty little craft that’s great for casual paddlers looking for an easier method of storage and transport.

Givoust Weather Radio

We dubbed this weather radio the best we’ve tested. It blew us away with its 8,000-mAh battery that can allow it to run for literally days. Throw on some extremely bright lights for safety and this is a great boating safety device for monitoring conditions before and during a day out on the water.

Malone Clipper TRX Kayak/Canoe Cart

Nothing can mess up the hull of an expensive kayak quicker than dragging it on the ground. Trust me, I learned that the hard way! Help protect your friend or relative’s investment with this stellar kayak and canoe cart that makes it easy to move and launch kayaks up to 200 pounds over practically any terrain.

JBL Clip Waterproof Speaker

There’s nothing quite cruising around the lake on a hot summer day with your favorite tunes going. This waterproof JBL clip Bluetooth speaker is a perfect boat companion. It’ll play for up to 10 hours and is compact enough to easily stow away when not in use.

BOTE Wulf Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard

Stand up paddleboards continue to become more and more popular every year, but storage space is a problem with the big ones. The inflatable 10-foot Bote Wulf collapses down and fits in a small 20-pound bag for easy transport and storage when not in use. It’s also rather affordable as far as SUPs are concerned.

Yeti LoadOut GoBox Gear Case

Both freshwater and saltwater can be harsh on sensitive gear. A waterproof solution is a must for any boater. That’s where a rugged case like the Yeti LoadOut GoBox comes into play. Dust-proof and shock-resistant with a removable cargo tray, it will keep all their gear safe, organized, and most importantly, dry.

Salt Life Gaffer Lightweight

The Gaffer is an incredibly comfortable hoodie that layers extremely well in the transitional times between seasons when temperatures are rising or falling. I’ve found myself reaching for this fleece hoodie quite frequently this fall as temperatures start to drop here in Michigan. While it is great for fishing, it also works for other activities like hiking and biking.

Magellan Outdoors Pro Fishing Boating Shoes

I recently wore these shoes on a trip to Texas and found them to be extremely comfortable while inshore fishing. The mesh uppers are breathable and ideal for hot climates. The slip-on nature of the shoes makes them easy to put on and take off. Just cinch the cord to tighten the fit.

Costa Fantail Sunglasses

The Costa Fantails are another comfortable sunglasses option that’s perfect for just about any angler. Costa offers dozens of different lens color options. These glasses are built with a higher fit that’s perfect for anyone who has the bridge of their nose higher than their pupils.

Toadfish Non-Tipping Can Cooler

This can cooler from Toadfish is one of the coolest we’ve ever seen. Mainly because the unique suction technology helps it stick to almost any surface, keeping your drink secure against spilling. It’s great for boats and other vehicles that don’t have built-in drink holders already. And a double wall of vacuum insulation keeps it cold for hours.

Humminbird Helix 7

The Humminbird Helix 7 is one of the best fish finders available today and is a perfect upgrade for any angler with aging gear. The size of this finder is perfect for everything from the largest bass boats to kayaks. We love the dual spectrum Chrip sonar. I use it all the time on my kayak because it’s super clear and makes spotting big fish quick and easy. This finder also comes at an excellent, affordable price point.  

Travis Smola is a Staff Writer with Field & Stream. He spent eight years writing about all things outdoors with Wide Open Spaces before looking for a new challenge with Field & Stream in 2023. Contact the author here.

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57 Top & Best Gifts for Boaters Who Are Always on the Water

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL:DR: The best gifts for boaters are the Magic Fisherman Soap , Marine Bar Caddy by Docktail , and the Commissioned Watercolor Painting of Their Boat . Here’s why:

• The magic fisherman soap scrubs away that awful fish smell—yay, no more date-night stink!
• A marine bar is functional and exciting for anyone who enjoys sipping a drink on the water.
• These one-of-a-kind watercolor paintings are thoughtful gifts that they’ll treasure forever.

Let’s be real; die-hard boaters love spending time on the water more than anything else. That’s why the best way to a boater’s heart is through boating accessories and items with a nautical theme. 

If you feel a little stuck, I’m here with some great ideas to help you find the best gifts for your favorite boaters.

I grew up slathering on sunscreen and jumping off the back of speedboats every summer. Aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents lounged on floaties day after day. Meanwhile, my sister and I dove for fishing lures and lost sunglasses. 

We spent late nights peering over the side of the boat as garfish appeared from the depths like monsters from horror films. 

At around 11 pm, dad turned the ignition, and we sped back to the dock. My sister and I wrapped ourselves in towels and fell asleep, dreaming of another day to come.

I’ve based this list of boat gift ideas on my personal experience and hours of research on boating blogs. 

Whether you’re searching for the best father’s day gifts for boaters or the best Christmas gifts for boaters, this list is sure to have just the thing. 

Best of all, you can order most of these gifts online and ship them directly to the recipient’s door.

Note: this post contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Short on time? Here are my top three gift ideas for boaters

My Three Top Gifts:

• Magic Fisherman Soap
• Marine Bar Caddy by Docktail
• Commissioned Watercolor Painting of Their Boat

Table of Contents

#1 Captain’s Hat

The most crucial boat accessory gift is a captain’s hat. 

Okay, maybe this is the third most important thing after life jackets and first aid kits. But you get the point. 

Captain’s hats are funny gifts for boat owners with a sense of humor or, on the flip side, for captains who take their leadership role a little too seriously. These captain’s hats are one size fits all.

#2 Boat Guest Book

Guest logs are a great gift idea for boat owners who love welcoming new crew members aboard for parties or excursions, and they’re my favorite Amazon gift for boat owners. 

This guest log is hardcover and has lines for a name, date, and short description of the outing. Your favorite boat captain will feel official handing this book to their guests and can look back at all of the happy memories.

#3 STRIKER Fishfinder by Garmin

If the special boater in your life is more dedicated to fish than humans, they will love this fish finder. 

Using high-frequency pitches that echo back to the boat, the STRIKER fishfinder maps out marine life so that fishers can see where the fish are biting.

The STRIKER also has GPS and Waypoints for making personal maps of the best fishing spots. Fishfinders are best for lakes and rivers.

Unlike some boat accessories, this is so compact that kayak fishers can carry a STRIKER in their vest pocket. 

I also suggest checking out the STRIKER Cast fish finder, which is a floating bobber that runs off of a cellphone app. It’s even more compact but not good for people with a history of dropping their phone in the water.

Whatever style of product you go with, high-tech fish finders and chart plotters are the ultimate luxury gifts for boaters.

Looking for more Garmin products? Check out our list of the best Garmin watches .

#4 Boat Scuff Erasers

Another set of must-have boat accessories are boat scuff erasers. They work like Mr. Clean erasers but are stronger and better at pulling up tough dirt, mildew, and stains on boats. 

Scuff erasers are a handy tool that makes great gifts for boat owners who want to spot-clean before heading out. Boat scuff erasers activate with a little bit of water. They don’t have bleach and are safe to use on vinyl, leather, and Gelcoat.

#5 Boat Cover

Once the boat is clean, maybe it’s time to invest in a new boat cover. Covers protect the furnishings and electronics in a boat from direct sunlight and rain. 

Vessels without covers are exposed to the elements and age rapidly, lowering their value.

#6 Spare Battery

I listened to a TedTalk recently about a professional fisherman whose boat died and left him stranded in the ocean as a storm rolled in. 

No one looks or feels good stranded in a storm. A spare battery to store under the seats is a practical gift for new boat owners and weathered seamen. 

It’s crucial to find out what battery their boat uses. The best way of doing this without ruining the surprise is by learning the make, model, and year. Then stop by a boating store and ask for help finding the correct battery. 

And if you aren’t up for detective work, buy them a prepaid $100 Visa to help pay for the battery.

Who knows, you could save their life in an emergency.

#7 Waterproof Pack

Sea to Summit dry bags make the best birthday gifts for boaters. This 20L dry bag is 420-denier nylon fabric reinforced with thermoplastic polyurethane. 

In other words, wildlife photographers can feel confident packing camera equipment on their next kayaking trip. 

This bag is known to keep contents dry despite dips in the lake and accidental drops from the boat dock during loading and unloading.

CHECK PRICE ON:

#8 Reef Safe Sunscreen

All boat captains need sunscreen, but whether or not they remember to buy it for themselves is another question. That’s why this sunscreen by Thrive should be on your gift list. 

It’s reef safe, and the packaging is plant-based to reduce plastics. Reef-safe sunscreens don’t contain Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, and other harsh chemicals that contribute to coral bleaching. 

Plus, the antioxidants in this sunscreen derive from ingredients grown on Costa Rican farms that work to replenish the soil with its natural nutrients.

#9 Ray–Ban Sunglasses

Sunglasses are excellent gift ideas for boaters. 

I find broken sunglasses on river banks and ocean beaches all the time. Just last month, I lost my favorite pair of sunglasses while paddleboarding on the Columbia River. 

Gift your favorite boater a new pair of polarized Ray–Ban sunglasses. Polarized sunglasses reduce glare and water reflections so boaters can see through the water’s surface while fishing or anchoring.

#10 Wine Cooler Tote

Items that help to get the party started make excellent gifts for boaters. 

With this wine tote, your friends can chill their wine at home or pick up a bottle at the store and chill it in the bag. The seams and insulated lining are leakproof. 

No need for a bulky ice chest. This adorable bag has a cross-body strap for secure carrying. 

The blue and white stripes with leather details are a classic combo that looks cute on the boat or while picnicking at an open-air concert.

#11 Wine Glass Charms

These nautical wine glass markers are great boat-warming gifts for keeping track of whose glass is whose late into the night. 

Offer these as a host gift when you stay at a friend’s lake house or spend an evening on their boat. 

I like this set of charms in particular because each boating flag is a different color, meaning that there’s no need to squint at tiny words on the charms. 

You can create personalized boating gifts by beading your own charms with a jeweler’s wire.

#12  Nautical Whiskey Decanter

If wine isn’t their thing, how about whiskey? 

This glass ship-in-a-bottle decanter is the perfect gift and talking point for boat owners who regularly entertain at home. It will add a nautical touch to any study.

Looking for more bourbon whiskey gifts? Read our bourbon-themed gift guide .

#13 Charcuterie Board

Maybe you need a Mother’s day gift that combines her love of boating and entertaining. Charcuterie boards will bump her display game up a notch. 

Serving tools tuck into an internal drawer, compact for carrying onto the boat. This set has two ceramic bowls that fit into the corners and hold dipping sauces like olive oil or hummus. 

Bamboo is also more sustainable than hardwoods because it grows back quickly, and the water resistance makes the board sure to last for years to come.

#14 Spill Proof Tumbler

Sun tea, anyone? Anything spill-proof makes a great gift for boating enthusiasts—no more worrying about spilling the tea on dad’s precious boat. 

When you take the straw out, a spring closure on the underside of the lid automatically seals the straw hole. 

The user gets the convenience of a water bottle and the satisfaction of drinking from a reusable straw . I don’t know about you, but I think it feels weird to drink smoothies and coffee from water bottles. 

This tumbler is the perfect container for making boat sun tea. Drop a few tea bags into a tumbler full of water, screw the lid on, and set it in a sunny cup holder. After a couple of hours, stick a straw in, and Voilà.

#15 Eucalyptus Oil for Cleaning

Boating and fishing can be messy, and sometimes the best gifts for boaters are practical cleaning supplies. 

It’s a little-known secret that eucalyptus oil will help clean sticky messes and fishy residue. 

Eucalyptus is a natural essential oil, and the smell also helps freshen the cabin of a boat after sitting all winter.

Essential oils are great gifts for a new boat owner who wants to remove scents from previous owners.

Looking for more green gift ideas? Read my guide to the best eco-friendly gifts .

#16 Fishing Pole Organizer

Alright, this is a gift for anyone with “too many” fishing poles. You will also be helping out their loved ones who are tired of tripping over the fishing equipment. 

This fishing pole organizer requires no wall attachments and can easily tuck it into the corner for easy access.

#17 Square Drain Plug Wrench

Looking for a practical gift for someone with a bad memory? This drain plug, wrench, and plug holder is bright orange. 

It attaches to their keychain as a reminder and convenient tool for draining and replugging the bilge so the boat doesn’t sink.

#18 Deodorizing Fisherman Hand Scrub

Organic soap is always a great gift idea, but this fisherman soap is specifically for cleaning hands before and after fishing.

Fish absolutely love the scent of anise—which is similar to the smell of black licorice. Washing hands with this soap attracts fish by replacing human odors before touching any lures. 

Anise soap also makes a great gift for him to use after fishing. The anise fragrance cuts through fishy odors without using bleach or other harsh chemicals.

And if he still smells fishy, give this hand scrub a try. It’s lemon-scented and known to cut through odors.

#19 Floating Key Fob

Alright, this one is for the friends who are bound to drop their keys in the lake. Do some damage control by gifting them a floating key fob. 

It comes in 9 different colors with a cute nautical emblem like an anchor or a palm tree. 

Turn this into the best floating gift for boaters by personalizing it with the person’s name or a personal message. I might write a silly phrase like “Don’t Lose” or “Keep Swimming.”

#20 Bait & Filet Table

The design of this filet table drains the fish guts directly into the water. It mounts on a fishing rod holder and swivels over the boat’s edge. 

Any angler who prepares bait or fish on their boat will be eternally grateful for the easy cleanup and convenience.

#21 Cut Resistant Glove

Let’s keep all of those fingers intact. Pair the filet table with a cut-resistant glove. These gloves come in packs of one, so order two for a set.

#22 Survival Kit & First Aid Kit

When you need it, you need it. 

This kit contains the minimum necessities for marine emergencies: a 60-foot throw rope, stainless steel 12-in-1 multi-tool, water-resistant LED strobe light, survival whistle, thermal blankets, and a first aid kit.

The storage bag is the size of a school backpack and can easily slide under a seat.

#23 Life Jackets

While we are on the topic of safety, make sure that the new boat owner in your life has a set of life vests. 

Traditional orange emergency life jackets are cheaper, but people are less likely to use them unless it’s a true emergency. 

I recommend investing in this sportier, more comfortable set of 4 Stohlquist vests. These are suitable for water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and staying afloat with an afternoon cocktail.

Keep in mind that new boaters with small children need child-sized life vests. Here is a comprehensive Coast Guard-approved video explaining the proper life jacket fit:

#24 Nautical Sundial Compass

Go retro and gift a boating enthusiast this nautical sundial compass. This compass is brass and fully functional–-even though most people will use it as a decoration.

Is the boating enthusiast in your life less retro and more high-tech? Get them a handheld GPS device instead.

#25 Marine Bar Caddy by Docktail

Who’s ready to party? Docktail marine bar caddies are the perfect gifts for boat enthusiasts who like to show off their drink-making skills. 

This caddy mounts into standard fishing rod holders and folds flat when not in use. 

The caddy has six cup holders and bottle cutouts. It also has a cutting board insert for slicing limes and preparing snacks.

#26 Bungee Dock Lines

Simplify the docking process with a set of 4-foot bungee dock lines with a boat loop on either side. 

The bungee is concealed inside the rope and has a tension strength of 2,150 pounds, meaning it is rated to withstand just over 2,000 pounds of force. 

To tie up using this dock line, thread the boat loop up through the chalk of the cleat. Then fold the loop over the top of the cleat and secure it under the left and right points of the cleat.

#27 Portable Spotlight

LED spotlights are awesome gifts for boaters who enjoy a relaxing evening cruise.  

Growing up, my dad used the boat spotlight to anchor in the dark, avoid underwater tree stumps, and catch the attention of other boaters. My sister and I mostly pointed it into the water and tried to catch minnows.

I particularly like the BUYSIGHT light because it has a 10,000-lumen high beam, an S.O.S. strobe for emergencies, and a flood lamp for eating dinner in the dark. The light is compatible with universal tripods and serves as a battery pack for recharging phones.

#28 Boat Tote Organizer

The boat tote organizer is a popular gift for boaters that will come in handy for the boating enthusiasts in your life. 

The tote fits over any gunnel with a maximum width of 2.5 inches; it comes with cup holders, fishing rod holders, predrilled holes for mounting fishfinders and chart plotters, and a magnetic plate for organizing lures.

#29 Custom Classic Life Preserver

This nautical decor is a United States Coast Guard-approved flotation device. Customize it with the boat name for a perfect custom gift for a new boat owner.

If you are looking for a good laugh, customize the text to something funny like “Don’t Let Go” or “Retirement Fund.”

#30 Wine Bottle Gift Bag

Never show up to a party empty-handed. Gift wrap a bottle of wine in this adorable reusable pouch. The materials are an eco-friendly blend of recycled fabric.

Looking for an experiential gift? Take your friend wine tasting in Santa Cruz or pick up a bottle to enjoy on deck.

#31 Personalized Buoy Decor

These cute wooden buoy decorations bring a casual nautical touch to beach and lake houses. Each buoy is handmade with custom longitude, latitude, and house number.

#32 Personalized Anchor Towels 

Need a nautical holiday gift idea for your favorite boat captain? Have their boat name embroidered on this set of 100% cotton towels.

#33 “I Love You” Nautical Flag Decor

These oyster shells read “I Love You” in the universal language of nautical flags. Too cute. 

This gift is a meaningful piece of art for a desk, dresser, or bookshelf. Gift it as an earring holder or candy dish.

Each shell is hand-picked from Cape Cod Bay and hand painted. The edges have gilded gold rims, and the inside is finished with multiple layers of a top coat.

#33 Sun Hat

This hat is an all-around friend to anyone who spends time in the sun. The cute leather drawstring will keep it from flying away as the wind picks up. It has a nearly 3-inch brim and offers UPF 50+. 

No matter how much sunscreen we slather on, sunhats add that extra layer of protection for noses and cheeks. Give this hat to a loved one who always comes home sunburned.

#34 Etched Nautical Stemless Wine Glasses

Nautical-themed etched wine glasses make fun boat gifts for couples tying the not. Stemless wine glasses are less likely to be knocked over in tight quarters. 

This set uses dishwasher-safe plastic that looks and feels like glass. Plastic is a safer option for boaters who don’t want to worry about cleaning up broken glass.

#35 Nautical Porthole Clock

Consider some decorative boat accessories if you’re looking for a great gift idea for a new boat owner.

Give your favorite boater this nautical porthole clock for their study, or hang it in a marine-themed bathroom. The clock is brass with a glass window.

#36 Nautical Leather Bracelet

This leather bracelet with anchor and loop closure adds a touch of personality for dinners at the yacht club. It comes wrapped in an adorable gift box, ready for birthdays, valentines day, and anniversaries.

#37 Custom Flag

Custom flags are another fun holiday gift for the family. When I was a kid, my aunt and uncle always had colorful flags flapping in the wind behind their boat. 

Let your boat name or family name fly high with this flag that spells out words with nautical symbols.

#38 Portable Folding Boat Chair

Compact folding chairs make a useful birthday gift for a daughter who enjoys reading on the boat.

Instead of laying out flat on a beach towel, she can sit in the cushioned comfort of this waterproof folding chair.

#39 Clippy Battery Fan

Boating in the heat of summer is fun when you are in the water or speeding along. Once anchored, these clip-on battery-powered fans will keep the boat deck cool. 

There are no cables, and the fan can hang from a pole overhead.

#40 Monogrammed Yeti Tumbler

Help your boat lover seas the day with a to-go coffee mug. Each mug comes with a laser-etched helm design and personalized name. 

These monogrammed Yeti tumblers are the perfect gift for a captain or first mate. 

Yeti mugs have insulated walls for hot or cold drinks so that the crew can drink their coffee or rum and coke on the go.

This mug will fit in a cupholder when the favorite fisher in your life needs two hands to reel in a big one.

#41 Rothy’s Shoes

A good pair of shoes can make a perfect gift for a boater.

Rothy’s are 100% machine washable and made from recycled plastic water bottles. How’s that for a party trick? 

These aren’t your average boating shoes or water shoes. Your sweetie can look stylish and feel comfortable while networking on the yacht deck. 

Then they can toss their Rothy’s in the washing machine for a “straight out of the box” look again and again.

#42 Inflatable Solar Lamp

Planning a romantic anniversary on the water? String these color-changing solar lamps to the side of the boat or let them float as you skinny dip and sip wine. 

Afterward, deflate the lamps, slip them into the glove compartment, or set them in the dash to recharge when the sun comes up.

#43 Biodegradable Boat Soap

Growing up, my uncle cleaned his boat obsessively. My dad always commented on the number of harsh chemicals that were flowing into the lake where we swam. 

Gifting eco-friendly products is a gentle way of encouraging sustainable habits. Help someone avoid harsh chemicals and use biodegradable soaps like Star Brite. 

Just like sunscreen, it’s also vital to choose phosphate-free washes. Phosphates inhibit water oxygenation processes and lead to the suffocation of healthy marine environments.

#44 T-shirt

It’s hard to go wrong with T-shirts. If you know the person’s size, order them a T-shirt they can enjoy on and off the boat. 

The first shirt I’m linking to says “Lake Life” in cursive lettering with a sketched heart. 

It’s simple for throwing on over a bathing suit or dressing up for a casual dinner in town. I like that this shirt comes in an assortment of colors and cuts. The navy V-neck is my favorite.

Looking for a good laugh? My second suggestion is for all of those sexy pontoon boat captains.

Dad will get a kick out of this one and wear it with pride weekly. This shirt is 100% cotton and comes in S – 2XL.

#45 Deck of Waterproof Playing Cards

I carry a deck of playing cards on every adventure. These waterproof cards are the perfect gift idea for anyone who hangs out around the water. They’re a thin plastic that is easy to shuffle. 

Drop a deck into Dad’s stocking so he can play Go Fish when he can’t go fishing.

#46 Remote Control Speed Boat

This remote control boat reaches 20mph. Yeah, it’s pretty cool. My uncle had a model speed boat that zipped back around forth across the lake. 

These boats have a range of 120 meters from the remote control and a recovery mode for flipping the boat right side up if it rolls. Get two for the family and hold speed boat races at the lake house.

#47 Underwater Camera Drone 

Check out the underwater marine environment with this remote-controlled underwater camera. We can all look up at the sky, and now we can look under the water with “Dory.” 

This underwater drone is the perfect solution for viewing deep-water fish from the safety of the dock. Dory’s tether is 49 feet long, giving her plenty of room to explore. 

If someone already has a flying drown, they will love adding an underwater drone to their collection. On the flip side, this is one of the best gifts that you can give a kid–marine–biologist.

#48 Floating Swimming Platform

As someone who grew up on the lake, giant swimming platforms are one of my favorite gifts for boaters. The kids have their island to play on while the parents talk and relax.

My dad used to tie a floating pad to the back of the boat while anchored. My sister and I played King of the Mountain for hours without running back and forth on the boat. 

Swimming pads are also good gift ideas for people with disabilities or injuries who need reliable floaties.

This swimming platform is made of 1.5-inch thick foam and has straps to roll one end into a pillow. Trust me, don’t bother buying the 9-foot pad. 

Go straight for the 18-foot pad and enjoy your private island.

#49 Columbia Rain Jacket

Every boat owner needs a good rain jacket when the clouds roll in. 

These Columbia raincoats have waterproof seams for lightweight protection in heavy rains, and the inner mesh lining prevents the material from sticking to damp skin on humid days.

When the sun is out, simply stuff the jacket into a pocket for easy packing.

#50 Suction Cup Organizers

Suction cup organizers are the perfect gift for anyone who cooks or sleeps overnight on their boat. 

These suction cups are water resistant and keep clutter off of the countertops. Buy two sets; one for cooking utensils in the kitchen and another for toothbrushes or shampoo in the bathroom.

#51 Boater Education Card

Boaters in California must pass a boater safety exam and obtain a Boater Education Card. Gift a new boater an online course to prepare for their boater safety test. 

Anyone over the age of 16-year-old can take the test. Law enforcement can ask to see a boater’s card at any time, just like a driver’s license.

#52 Corkscrew Wine Bottle Opener

Don’t mess around with novelty openers when opening a nice bottle of wine. Let me introduce you to the “waiter’s key.” 

A waiter’s key is ergonomic and simple. It has all the necessities: corkscrew wine opener, bottle opener, and serrated edge for cutting foil. 

Pick up a premium quality wood-finished handle for your cousin’s yacht. Save the day at an upcoming bachelorette party with wine openers for everyone.

#53 Portable BBQ

Portable grills are a popular gift for boaters. This magma BBQ mounts to the fishing rod holder. It swivels and is easily adjusted to take up space on a small boat. 

The handles have a protective plastic coating, and the lid opens on hinges to prevent it from blowing off. When it’s time to start the grill, the chef can adjust the lighter valve so it is out of the wind.

#54 Waterproof Binoculars

Binoculars are a handy tool for wildlife-watching and excellent gifts for boaters. They’re perfect for figuring out what that UFO (Unidentified Floating Object) is up ahead. 

I like these binoculars because I don’t have to worry about splashing water on them. 

Kayakers can easily toss them into a daypack or carry them on a lanyard around their neck. Give a pair of binoculars to someone going on a cruise so that they can spot dolphins and whales.

Balance practicality and style with this perfect gift for her. 

These gloves will keep her hands warm and look fashionable as she sips a hot cup of mulled wine. The rubber grip on the palms and fingers means that she can keep a firm grip on glasses, cell phones, and metal railings. 

The pointer fingers are touch screen compatible, so using her phone doesn’t mean having cold hands.

Is your friend a fan of winter boating? Check out our recommendations for the best heated gloves .

#56 Commissioned Painting of Their Boat

Still haven’t found the perfect gift for him this holiday season? Commission a custom painting of the family boat. Each watercolor painting is made to order. 

Simply email the artist a picture of your loved one’s boat and special requests for background elements. 

Consider surprising the gift recipient by hanging it on the wall on Christmas morning. Then see how long it takes for them to notice.

#57 Boat Maintenance Log

Every captain needs a maintenance book, whether they have a big boat or a small boat. 

This boat maintenance log has four sections: Parts List, Vessel Information, Engine, Generator and Battery Specifications, and General Information. 

Boat logs are one of the best gifts for boaters because they’ll no longer have to scrounge through years of loose papers. Now they can write down everything and leave notes for the future.

Plus, an organized maintenance log makes selling the boat easier because it’s clear how the boat was cared for. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jodelle Marx

Jodelle Marx is an artist and writer, adventure seeker, and collaborator. She hikes, swims, chases after her dog, and hums off-tune. When Jodelle is not nerding out about traveling, she is probably working on a community project or performing spoken word poetry.

Are you shopping for gifts for a whole family of adventurers? Check out these related articles below!

Fun & Best Gifts for Long-Distance Friends 

Best Travel Gifts for Every Budget

Best Gifts for Hikers

Best White Elephant Gifts Under $20

Best Gifts for Kayakers and Canoeists

Best 25th Anniversary Gifts

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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Home » Blog » Gear » 60 boating gifts for boat owners [2023 guide]

60 boating gifts for boat owners [2023 guide]

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: August 4, 2023

We’ve scoured the seas (and Internet!) to put together the ultimate list of boating gifts that I (and other boaters) would genuinely LOVE to receive.

As a bluewater sailor and lifelong boater, I’ve given and received dozens of boat gifts. However, it was while I was living on a boat for five years (with very limited space), that I came to appreciate what items make for the most useful and thoughtful gifts for boat owners.

So, before I jump into our list of boater gifts, here are a few quick thoughts on what makes a great boat gift (or you can just scroll down to our 60 boat gift ideas ).

What makes the best gifts for boat owners? 

The best boat gifts for your the beloved boaters in your life will likely be:

Boats are small, minimalist spaces, and there isn’t much room for anything that doesn’t serve a practical function. Practical gifts might include things like multi-tools or travel-sized snorkeling fins.

Consumables gifts are great too. Check out my recipe for margarita marmalade and other homemade boating gifts .

The best gifts for boaters are things that have a little something extra, the thing you would love to own but might not buy for yourself (e.g., an auto-inflating lifejacket with all the bells and whistles).

Built to last

The marine environment is extremely harsh so this is not the time to skimp on quality. Look for items with water resistance ratings and non-corrosive materials (e.g., jewelry, zippers).

Boaters do more than just boat! They may enjoy fishing, snorkeling, cooking, sailing, reading a book, or playing music on their boat. Find out what your boater friend or family member loves to do aboard and tailor the gift to their interests. We’ve got plenty of suggestions for personalized gifts below.

This post includes affiliate links—so we’ll earn a small commission if you purchase—however, the opinions are 100% our own.

  60 boating gifts for boat owners and enthusiasts

Waterproof rubber boots keep toes toasty and dry both on and off the boat. I especially love ankle-height rubber boots because they’re light and versatile. I wore mine daily when I was living on a sailboat in Vancouver (a.k.a. Rain City)

Grundéns Deck-Boss Ankle Boots

Auto inflatable life jacket

Auto-inflating life jackets cost a bit more than your standard non-inflatable but they are extremely light and comfortable. I don’t even notice that I’m wearing one. They make a great gift for keeping a loved one safe. Look for one with a tether and harness for anyone going offshore cruising.

Boat cookbook

If you know a boater who loves to cook (or eat!), this classic boating cookbook is a great gift idea. It includes contributions from top chefs and sailing legends (e.g., Sir Robin Knox-Johnston), helpful tips on galley organization, and plenty of mouthwatering (but approachable) sea-to-table recipes.

Online boating course

Online boating courses  on topics like navigation and weather make great gifts for the holiday season because they give boaters something to do in the off-season: learn new skills! 

I recently took (and would highly recommend)  Boat Electrics 101 , an online course co-created by marine electrics guru, Nigel Calder. I wish this course had been available when we bought our first cruising sailboat—it would have saved us so much grief! Read my  Boat Electrics 101 review  for more details.

Boat Electrics 101

Dry bag backpack or duffel

Rule to live by: you can never have enough dry bags on a boat! A waterproof backpack or duffel bag is especially handy for carrying personal belongings on and off the boat. I love the look of these Fishe dry bags, designed in Anchorage, Alaska. Keep your gear dry and haul it around with comfortable straps. Best of all they come in a range of psychedelic fish prints.

Fishe Groovy Grayling Duffel Dry Bag

Boat binoculars

Boat binoculars are a practical gift that will last a lifetime and they don’t have to cost a fortune. My mother gave us a pair of Westmarine binoculars for our bluewater sailing trip across the Pacific and we loved them.

Be sure to buy a marine set with 7x magnification, anything more and you’ll have a hard time focusing on an object. Read more about how to choose a pair of binoculars in our  2022 best binoculars for boating guide .

Swim leggings

Swim leggings are made from bathing suit material and can be used both in the water and out. They’re great for watersports, protecting from the sun (and jellyfish stings). These leggings, made by Waterlust, feature cool oceanic prints and UPF protection (great for sunny days!). Not only that but 10% of profits go to fund environmental science.

Waterlust swim leggings

This stainless-steel multi-tool is a Swiss army knife on steroids and it makes a great gift for boat lovers. It has 18 functions including heavy-duty pliers, a knife, a screwdriver, scissors, and wire cutters. On a boat, they’re handy tools for undoing seizing wire, tightening loose screws, tightening shackles, and opening hard knots.

The Leatherman Wave is an international best-seller. We took a similar model on our three-year sailing trip.

Waterproof Bluetooth speaker

We received this tiny waterproof speaker as a gift and still can’t get over how much sound it delivers. It’s taken years of abuse and the tunes keep coming. You also can’t go wrong with the price.

Polarized sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses are a great gift idea for boaters who need to protect their eyes from the sun and glare. While I might personally opt for a cheaper pair of polarized sunglasses , these high-end sunglasses from Maui Jim would make a very special gift.

Stand up paddleboard

SUPs can be a practical way for people to get from the boat to shore, but mostly they’re a fun way to explore and get a bit of exercise.

iRocker is one of the leading makers of paddle boards and their Cruiser Ultra is described as the most stable board on the market, perfect for SUP yogis, families with kids, and beginners. It’s spacious enough for two riders or additional cargo.

Waterproof jacket

When you live in the Pacific Northwest, finding a truly waterproof rainjacket becomes an obsession. My husband loves his Helly Hansen Roan Waterproof Rain Anorak which is seemingly designed for commercial fishermen (who know a thing or two about staying dry!). Made from PU cotted knitted polyester, it features neoprene cuffs to keep your wrists dry, and costs a fraction of a rain jacket made from technical waterproofing materials.

Helly Hansen Roan Waterproof Rain Anorak

Marine smartwatch

The Garmin quatix 7 boasts some pretty mindboggling marine features including tide data, anchor alarms, and charts, not to mention connectivity with compatible chartplotters, autopilot, and other devices. That’s all on top of fitness tracking and the usual GPS smartwatch features you’ve come to expect. It’s one of the pricier boating gifts on our list, but perfect if you really want to make a splash!

Towing and boatside assistance

What is a good gift for a new boat owner? When you’re new to boating it can be stressful! BoatUS’ membership plans offer some peace-of-mind with on-the-water towing, jump-starts, fuel delivery, and soft ungroundings. The service is good on any boat you own, borrow, or rent.

You also get loads of discounts on marine products and services, not to mention access to BoatUS Magazine which is loaded with helpful information, how-tos, and great boating stories.

Full disclosure: I’m an editor at BoatU.S. Magazine, so of course, I think the content is top-notch!

BoatU.S. Membership

$25.00-200.00

Water bottle and thermos

Hydration is key at sea, which is why we considered our water bottles must-have-on-deck gear.

Grab one of these double-walled, vacuum-insulated, water bottles that do double duty, keeping your drinks hot or cold.

Choose from six marine-inspired designs and 10% of the profit will be donated to environmental research and education organizations. They’re dishwasher safe, and corrosion resistant and the handy D-ring is easy to clip in the cockpit (so your drink won’t go overboard).

Waterlust insulated bottle

Nautical jewelry

Jewelry is a great way to mark a special occasion. For the boat, choose pieces that won’t rust (stainless steel is a great option) and are affordable (less of a loss if it goes overboard!). I love the look of these minimalist nautical knot bracelets.

Sterling silver nautical knot bracelet

Carbon fiber guitar

Spoil your favorite boater with the ultimate boat guitar.

Journey’s Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar is collapsible, fits into a carry-on backpack, and you can assemble it in 20 seconds. The carbon fiber constructions make it stable and durable, so you don’t have to worry about it warping in the humid marine environment.

My mum brought one of these on the World Arc and it was the centerpiece of many singalongs and boat parties. It’s one of the most high-end gifts on this list, but it’ll probably last for life.

Stainless steel harmonica

If the price tag on a guitar is too much to stomach, there’s always the harmonica! The Easter Admiral harmonica is great for beginners and even has a sailing ship inscribed on the front. Time to learn some sea shanties!

Sun protection shirt

Keep your loved ones safe in the sun with a UPF 50+ shirt from Grundéns. The Solstrale hoodie also has anti-odor, stain-release, and thermo-regulating properties making it a great shirt for anglers.

Grundéns Solstrale Hoodie

Sailor’s beanie

What could be saltier than a sailor’s beanie? I normally hate how I look in hats, but I love this recycled cashmere beanie from Canadian manufacturer, ANIÁN. It fits beautifully and the cashmere is so comfortable (and not itchy!). 

ANIÁN Cashmere Beanie

Every boater needs a knife and these corrosion-resistant, lightweight knives from Spyderco make great boater gifts. In case the name didn’t give it away, Spyderco’s Salt Knives are 100% designed for the marine environment. They’re extremely popular and were our knife of choice when we sailed our 35-foot sailboat across the Pacific.

Personal locator

ACR ResQLink 400 personal locator beacon is a GPS-enabled rescue beacon that will guide rescuers to your location whether on land, sea, or in the air. Best of all, it doesn’t require a monthly subscription

Superstitious sailors pour a shot of rum overboard to appease Neptune before long voyages. I’m pretty sure the tempestuous sea god would appreciate this Stanley Classic Hip Flask. This 8 oz stainless steel flask is perfect for happy hour adventures on land or at sea.

Seasickness care kit

This gift is a bit of a gag (get it!?) but there is some science behind it!  Acupressure has been shown to relieve nausea in some people . These anti-nausea bracelets come in a range of colors and make a fun gift for any boating enthusiast. They’d be perfect for a new boat owner or their first mate. Pair them with a bag of these  GinGins Ginger Chews  for a good laugh.

Unbreakable glassware

GSI Outdoor’s unbreakable glasses were our go-to glasses on the boat. Not only do they stand up to the rigors of boat life, but they also take up minimal space in the galley. Available in clear and stainless steel. They also have unbreakable stemless wine glasses or champagne flutes (for when you feel fancy).

Handheld VHF radio

VHF radios are an indispensable tool for getting weather information, communicating with other boaters and marinas, and reaching out to the Coast Guard in the event of an emergency. The benefit of handheld VHF radios is that they’re wireless, so you can use them anywhere on the boat.

For the person who spends more time in the water than on the boat, a swim robe is a super luxurious gift. These fleece-lined, windproof, waterproof jacket are beloved by outdoor cold water swimmers, surfers, SUPers, and divers. It’s great for drying off, warming up, discrete changing, or prancing around the fancy beach house you rented on AirBnB.

Mountain Hardwear Wave Swim Robe

Garmin Inreach Messenger

If you worry about boat-loving friends or family member when they’re out on the water, this tiny, rugged, satellite communicator is a great gift for staying in touch.

The latest release in Garmin’s ever-popular Inreach line allows you to send and receive messages from your phone when you boat outside of cellular range or trigger an interactive SOS if you get into trouble.

An active subscription is required and plans start at $14.95/mo.

Waterproof playing cards

Waterproof playing cards are a fun boat gift idea and a great way to entertain your boating friends. It’s probably the most minimalist game you could bring aboard.

This Hoyle Waterproof set is boat and beach-proof and won’t be prone to mildew if it gets left in a damp boat locker.

Filet knife

The Rapala Fish ‘N Filet Knife is a handy tool for enjoying freshly caught meals on the boat, but we also use ours at home all the time.

Cut-resistant gloves

Protect your hands while shucking oysters or preparing fish with a cut-resistant food-grade glove. These NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves make a great gift for the onboard chef or seafood lover.

Boating magazine subscription

Boating magazines provide great advice and inspiration for new boaters and salty skippers alike. For sailing, I love  Good Old Boat Magazine  which has practical projects and advice for people who own pre-2000 boats.

Full disclosure: I’m a contributing editor at Good Old Boat, so am somewhat biased—but I write for them because I love their content!

Good Old Boat Magazine Gift Subscription 1 Year

Electric trolling motor

Are you considering upgrading to an electric boat motor ? Why not dip a toe in the water and try fishing in silence with one of Minn Kota’s electric trolling motors? Minn Kota is very reputable and has been making electric trolling motors since 1934!

Sail cloth toiletry bag

I love the look of these unique, upcycled toiletry bags on Etsy. Perfect for holding toothbrushes and soap for overnights on the boat. Fill them with soap, sunscreen, and an SPF lip balm for a larger gift. Below we’ve listed our favorite nautical ablution gift ideas.

No4 Recycled Sail Cloth Travel Pouch

Sea Salt Soap contains minerally rich salts from seawater—great for shaving or lathering up in the shower.

SPF lip balm

This SPF 15 lip balm is my go-to on land and sea. The blend of organic beeswax and organic olive oil make it perfectly smooth and there’s no weird aftertaste.

Seaweed hand cream

Boating can take its toll on your hands and a nourishing cream makes a nice gift. I can’t get enough of  Swedish Dream’s  seaweed hand cream. The sea lily and kelp scent smells heavenly (and not at all like seaweed).

Boat and reef-safe sunscreen

Hook Ya mineral sunscreen is reef safe, bait safe, and boat safe—it won’t leave stains on your deck. Developed and bottled in Florida (where they know a thing or two about the sun!).

Microfiber towel

Boats are damp and humid environments where cotton towels can take forever to dry. Microfiber towels were essentials for living on a boat  . They also pack down and take up almost no space. 

A boating encyclopedia

Chapman Piloting & Seamanship is one of THE most indispensable and trusted books in boating—it’s been in print for over 100 years! The updated edition covers new technologies, safety tips, maintenance, weather, tides, currents, and navigation. If you’re looking for a gift for a new boater, this is it!

We kept one on our sailboat as a reference book when we sailed across the Pacific and didn’t have access to the Internet. Here are a few other nautical books we’ll never go to sea without .

Waterproof power bank

If you’ve been on a boat, you probably know that most boat captains are battery misers. The Goal Zero Venture 75 Power Bank makes it possible to charge phones, Go Pros, and Bluetooth stereos without draining the boat’s batteries. It has an IP67 water resistance rating and an LED flashlight. Great for long days on the water when you’ve drained your phone from taking photos and blasting tunes.

A guide to sailing anywhere in the world

Written by sailing legend, Jimmy Cornell, this guide shows you how to plan a voyage from anywhere in the world to… anywhere in the world.

With plenty of tips for planning a safe and successful voyage and overviews of the most popular cruising routes, this is the perfect gift for someone who wants to see the world by boat. In fact, any of Cornell’s books would make great sailboat gifts.

Crab, lobster, shrimp trap

My favorite boat breakfast is eggs benny with freshly caught crab. This Drasry fishing bait trap can be used to catch crab, lobster, crawfish, and shrimp. It’s great for beginners and collapses so you easily stash it away in a boat locker. Consider pairing this gift with a  seafood tool kit  which includes shellers, crackers, forks, and a nice bottle of white wine (lobster bibs optional)!

Boating adventure books

We’ve compiled a list of the top  25 classic boating books  that every boater should read. If I had to pick only one to give as a gift, I’d suggest the national bestseller, A Voyage for Madmen by Peter Nichols , a riveting account of the first single-handed sailing race around the world. Nine men set out at the start of the race but only one finishes.

Waterproof case

As a boater, it’s really not possible to own enough waterproof storage containers. This Pelican water-resistant (IP67), the crushproof case offers versatile protection for cell phones, cameras, watches, and other small electronics and valuables. Made in the USA and comes in different colors. Fill it with your boating friend’s favorite chocolate or candy for a more personalized gift.

Boat cleaning kit

This collapsible bucket and sponge set make for an easy-to-store boat cleaning kit. If you’re feeling especially generous you can always include a homemade gift certificate good for one boat cleaning service by yours truly.

Better Boat Fiberglass Hull Cleaning Kit

Travel fins

These Seavenger snorkeling fins are great for travel or stashing away in a boat locker. The perfect gift for boat owners who enjoy swimming and snorkelling.

Personalized captain’s log

While I’m not always one for customized boat swag, I think this is one place where it makes sense! Have a journal or log book made up with the boat name and captain’s name inscribed on the front. A thoughtful gift for someone who wants to document their sea travels.

Neoprene gloves

If you spend time in the water, your hands and toes are bound to get chilly. These 1.5 mm neoprene gloves can help keep your hands warm while mainting your dexterity. Great for snorkeling, paddling, wakeboarding, surfing, and spearfishing.

It’s hard to take good photos on a boat because you’re in close quarters, leaving you stuck with a pretty narrow field of view. Not to mention you don’t want to get your camera wet.

GoPros are the solution! Their fish-eye lenses offer much wider fields of view, so you can capture more of the scene. They’re also waterproof, so you can keep them on deck, ready to capture memorable moments.

Nautical artist’s sketchbook

The perfect present for the seafaring artist! Capture the light on the water with this nautical sketchbook. These make boater gifts because each one is handmade. Pair this gift with a couple of brushes and a set of watercolor pencils .

Sketchbook covered with a vintage sea chart

Boat life was made for al fresco dining and what better way to cook than break out the grill! The Magma Marine Kettle Gas Grill makes a great gift for the BBQing boater in your life and is sure to be enjoyed by all crew members. Pair it with these heat-resistant BBQ gloves . Hopefully, you’ll earn yourself a dinner invitation!

A good headlamp is essential for sailing at night and I’d recommend them for any sailing packing list .

Be sure to get one like  Black Diamond Storm  which is a waterproof design and has a red light for preserving your night vision.

Anyone who likes to boat in the shoulder or winter seasons will appreciate a high-quality set of thermal underwear. My personal favorite is Icebreaker’s 100% Merino base layers. While not inexpensive, mine have lasted for almost a decade and were vital when we sailed down the coast from Vancouver to California in 2015. 

Water-resistant notebook

This is one tough little note-pad! These all-weather notebooks repel water, mud, and grease and can even survive the laundry. They come in different sizes and are perfect for navigation and taking notes onboard.

Boat rental

If you think an experiential gift would be most appreciated, a Boatsetter gift card can be put towards a boat rental anywhere in the world. Whether you want to book a local fishing boat or a yacht in Thailand, Boatsetter has thousands of options. You can even choose to hire a boat captain if you want to just sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience.

Boatsetter rental gift card

Celestial navigation course

Perfect for stargazers, offshore sailors (and people who love doing math!). Learn the art of celestial navigation with this comprehensive guide. Pair it with a sextant for a bluewater sailor gift.

Spearfishing pole spear

A spearfishing setup is a great gift for someone looking for a new and exciting way to fish. The Mako Spearfishing Traveler Pole is a good pole spear for beginners and packs down well for travel, so that any boating trip can become a fishing trip.

Water socks

Protect your feet on the beach and keep them warm in the water with Seavenger’s Zephyr 3mm Neoprene Beach Socks. They come in lots of fun colors and patterns for maximum foot flare. Great for swimmers, divers, and water babies!

Cruise and learn

Whether you’re just learning to sail or want to up your offshore sailing skills, cruise and learn courses offer you an opportunity to learn on a boat over a weekend, week, or longer. These immersive courses are available in all kinds of exotic locations (why not learn in the Caribbean!?) so it can be learning and vacation all wrapped into one. Check out our list of  of fshore sailing school s  for some great opportunities.

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Best Christmas gifts for sailors: 39 top picks in 2023

• Toby Hodges
• November 8, 2023

Stuck for gift ideas for the sailor who has it all? Yachting World is here to help with dozens of great ideas as we list our best gifts for sailors all selected by our expert editorial team

Are you wondering what to get the sailor in your life for their birthday, for Christmas or for any other celebratory occasion? Here is our pick of the best Christmas gifts for sailors that would make a perfect present for the keen boater in your life.

We appreciate everyone is on a different budget, so we’ve sectioned this piece by price. Hit the links below to jump straight to the price bands.

Best gifts for sailors under £25 Best gifts for sailors £25 – £100 Best gifts for sailors £100 – £200 Best gifts for sailors £200 – £500 Best gifts for sailors £500+

Editor’s choice Christmas gifts

Hattiers Premium Reserve Rum

Synonymous with sailing since the mid 17th Century, rum continues to be the yachtsman’s favourite tipple.

This south Devon firm, which currently sponsors our Letters pages and has also teamed up with Spirit Yachts, produces some dangerously good sipping rums. A personal favourite is its premium reserve blended Egremont rum – wow!

Buy it now on Amazon

Gerber EZ-Out Rescue knife

This is a single blade with a rounded tip and no other tools or features. Although the blade remains safely sprung closed, it is easy and safe to open one-handed.

The 7.8cm-long blade is serrated, but not so heavily that the knife grips a rope when it should be cutting it. We found the EZ-Out Rescue the most effective cutter in our test. Whether faced with the tough Dyneema halyard, the webbing or the awkward polypropylene line, this blade scythed through in a few seconds at most.

The blade locks well and is easily returned via a push point on the rear. At 73.7g, the EZ-Out Rescue is very light and there is a lanyard point as well as a pocket clip.

That bright yellow, reinforced thermoplastic handle is mottled for grip and Gerber has boosted this with a raised black rubber lip on each side. The overall unit is relatively thin but perfectly comfortable to use.

This knife comes with a lifetime warranty.

Standard Horizon HX210E

This affordable 6W waterproof and buoyant handheld VHF is compact yet feature packed. The lithium battery-powered radio has chunky keys, a bright backlit screen, a water-activated strobe and an integral FM radio.

Looking for more options? Check out our guide to the  best handheld VHFs .

Sealskinz Bacton waterproof

Keeping your head warm and dry is vital to enjoying winter sailing. This waterproof Sealskinz beanie looks like the ideal way of achieving that. It is water and stain repellent, with a three layer construction for warmth, durability and waterproofing. The waterproofing will keep your head dry, breathability will keep you warm even when working hard.

Looking for a different style? Check out our guide to the best sailing hats on the market.

Red 40lt Kit Bag

This waterproof bag is stylish and lightweight, with smooth zips designed not to snag, and the best part is that it’s made out of recycled plastic bottles (TPU). And the zips and seals really work too. We tested a selection of waterproof bags and this was our favourite blend of style and practicality.

Buy it now from Red Original

Best Christmas gifts for sailors under £25

For those of us with land locked loved ones in our lives that are keen to take to the high seas Meg and Christopher Clothier may have the gift for you. Sea Fever is a book stacked to the gunnels with interesting facts, practical advice and esoteric seaside lore – once you’ve read it, you’ll never feel like a landlubber again.

Buy it now from Amazon

With each product is a ‘Buy it now’ link. If you click on this then we may receive a small amount of money from the retailer when you purchase the item. This doesn’t affect the amount you pay.

Creative ropecraft: a treasure trove of knots, hitches, bends, plaits and netting.

the updated edition of Creative Ropecraft: A treasure trove of knots, hitches, bends, plaits and netting by the late Stuart Grainger.

Now in colour for the first time, this compendium of all things knotty is a great collection of practical nautical knots and decorative rope work.

The Nautical Puzzle Book

How much do you really know about the oceans? The National Maritime Museum has packed this book with hundreds of questions and a mix of maps, world games and trivia. Available in hardback or Ebook form this stocking filler is designed to suit veteran sailors and armchair navigators alike.

Sugru Mouldable Glue

Sugru is a new material that feels like play dough but acts like superglue and sticks to most objects and surfaces. It’s very user-friendly, highly malleable and waterproof and comes in 10 bright colours. It’s ideal for both fixing things and giving items a new lease of life as it sets like silicone rubber (flexible and insulated) – it’s also surprisingly fun to apply.

Rick Tomlinson Calendar 2023

Any office/home study would look bare without a wall hanging calendar – particularly one that inspires dreams of getting afloat. One of our favourites is from Cowes photographer, Rick Tomlinson who consistently takes great sailing images and his annual calendar is always guaranteed to be chock-full of great snaps.

Best Christmas gifts for sailors £25 – £100

Spinlock essentials chest pack.

Spinlock’s Essential Packs are snug fitting solutions for keeping accessories like a mobile phone, VHF, or personal EPIRB to hand on the water. They are available as belt, side or chest packs that attach with Velcro tie-downs, and neatly compliment Spinlock’s Deckvest 5D lifejacket.

C-monsta wetsuit hangar

This odd looking hanger is designed especially for your wetsuit and its accoutrements like the gloves and boots. It’s lightweight, so easy to bring with you and strong enough to take the extra weight of soaking wet neoprene. The design also helps your wetsuit dry quicker and reduces wear and tear.

Reeds Nautical Almanac 2023

This year sees the 90th-anniversary edition of the Reeds Nautical Almanac. An annual compendium of all the navigational data you might need to plot a course around the Atlantic coast. It includes the UK and Europe all the way from Denmark to Gibraltar.

Gill Deckhand Sailing Gloves – Long Finger

The Gill Deckhand gloves have been my go to glove for years now. For a while there was a women’s option available which was a much better fit than the unisex version.

The way the glove is tailored to the curve of the hand makes them easy to wear and easy to grip lines and other control surfaces. They do get a bit soggy to wear when wet and I keep a few pairs to be able to swap out while the others dry off. They usually last me a season and need replacing but I keep buying the same gloves because they are so comfortable to wear.

Arthur Beale Riggers bag

Arthur Beale’s all natural oiled wool pullovers are the company’s signature item today, but it also has dozens of gift ideas, including this Rigging Tool Bag. Made from canvas and leather it features 24 external and 18 internal pockets plus practical handles and lanyards.

Buy it now from Arthur Beale

Gill Tarp Barrel Bag

All sailors need a decent kit bag. This 60L no-nonsense barrel bag is made from durable waterproof tarpaulin and features a two-way zip and padded shoulder strap.

Carboteck bracket and bezel

An upgrade for the dinghy sailing enthusiast in your life. This forged light and impact resistant carbon bezel is designed for use with a Velocitek Prism or a Raymarine Tacktick Micro Compass. The forged carbon is created by mixing paste fibres with resin, then squeezing the material into the desired shape.

Buy it now from Carboteck

Spinlock Lume-On lights

The simple ideas are the best. These compact LEDs stick to the underbelly of each bladder, which uses the large fluorescent surface like a diffuser to maximise the visibility of the flashing light.  Once activated, the Lume-On provides up to two hours of intense flashing light. It adds very little extra weight, has a smooth profile so will not chafe the bladder, and is very simple to retrofit to most lifejackets.

Boatworld Free Wheeling Outboard

This Australian innovation blends rowing with outboard motors to produce a clever lightweight solution for your tender. It uses a 3:1 gear ratio contained in the collar by the handle, driving a high-pitch propeller to provide a smooth, silent and fuel-less means of manual propulsion in either direction. Time to ditch the outboard, oars or both?

TackingMaster

Race tactics involve decisions based on the wind direction and trends, gleaned from the yacht’s compass. This Danish TackingMaster helps make wind shifts quick and easy to gauge using a watch-style wrist mount.

Once the wind direction and course to the mark have been set, you can track any shifts by using its inner course dial. So you can easily see how a shift may affect the next tack or leg and keep track of the average wind trend.

Buy it now from Tackingmaster

Restube Beach Float Buoyancy Aid

Anyone who partakes in extreme watersports will know there are times when wearing a lifejacket is simply not practical afloat. And others may simply want the comfort of a personal flotation device without the bulk, perhaps when taking a swim away from an anchored yacht.

The Restube is a personal lifebuoy developed by a kitesurfer that stows into a small bum-bag like pouch. It uses a vertical or horizontal belt attachment, and a sports model is available with a harness mount.

FlexSafe by AquaVault

Keeping keys, passports, wallets and electronic gadgets safe when travelling can all too often be a challenge. The FlexSafe is a lockable bag made of slash-proof materials that cannot be cut open with a knife and incorporates a piercing 110db motion sensing alarm. When on shore simply attach the bag to a convenient tree, your folding bike, the dinghy or any other suitable structure.

Gill Stealth Timer

Stealth Timer If you’re late to the start wearing this watch, there’s no excuse! As well as the large, super clear display, modes include a digital compass and course shift as well as the ‘stealth’ feature of a silent countdown so you can outsmart the opposition on the line.

Best Christmas gifts for sailors £100 – £200

Yeti rambler 36oz.

When two fishermen brothers couldn’t find a robust icebox/cooler, they started Yeti, which produces coolers you can stand on, throw around a boat and that will keep ice cold for days.

The drinkware range looks just as practical, whether water bottles, the ramblers to keep your coffee hot, or the wine tumbler to keep your Côtes de Provence ice cold.

The Rambler gallon/half gallon jugs make a lot of sense for day sailing racing, either for warming soups hot or keeping your Dark’n’Stormy fresh!  See Stones/Yeti for options

Buy it now from Yeti

Shakespeare emergency inflatable VHF antenna

If you’re planning a trip a little further out to sea or just want the safety of a powerful emergency antenna without cluttering up your deck this could be the low space answer for you. The Galaxy®-INFL8 VHF 3dB is an inflatable antenna that can be rapidly deployed via a CO2 cartridge to 5ft (1.6m) to offer a full 3dB antenna with a range of up to three times greater than any existing helical emergency antenna.

Sealey SPB160W 31200mAh Lithium AC Power Pack

This lithium ion power back offers a potential solution to the problem of keeping gadgets charged while on board. It’s compact and weighs only 1.5kg, but has a 31,200mAh capacity that’s sufficient to deliver half a dozen full charges for a smart phone, or to fully charge a typical laptop twice.

Oakley Split Shot

Wearing a good set of UV-protected sunglasses with polarised lenses year-round can help protect against serious eye damage. But it can be painful and expensive if, like me, you are prone to losing glasses over the side. Oakley’s Split Shot glasses come with Prizm lenses and provide a detachable lightweight and ultra thin wire leash attachment to its wraparound glasses to suit watersports in particular.

Looking for a different style? Check out our guide to the best sailing sunglasses on the market.

Dubarry Commodore XLT

YM editor Theo Stocker has been putting Dubarry’s Commodore XLT moccasin boat shoes through their paces for a few months now.

He believes they represent a happy medium between traditional moccasins and their sporty competitors.

Theo says: ‘Their key selling point is that they are, as the name suggests, extra light. In fact, they are roughly half the weight of my previous boat shoes.

‘Despite this, they still have a good degree of cushioning in the sole and are firm enough to give my foot some support, with the three-hole lacing keeping them secure on my foot.’

For more options, from deck trainers to leather moccasins, check out YBW’s guide to the best boat shoes available right now.

Buy it now from Robinsons Shoes

Exposure Weatherproof Head Torch

This compact, lightweight double-ended torch shines a powerful white beam from one end and a red light from the other. Both can be operated simultaneously for a variety of uses from onboard, to the tender ride or cycle home.

Accessories include a headband that allows either colour to shine forwards, a reflective neck lanyard, plus stanchion, helmet and magnetic mounts.

Fizzics portable beer tap

Sailors are discerning types with quality tastes. So why not ship a portable beer tap for draught-tasting beer with the perfect head? The founders of Fizzics have really delved into the science (or ‘fizzics’) of beer drinking, and created a device that they say will deliver the perfect pour, creating an ‘ultra dense, long-lasting foam head’ from any standard size beer can or bottle – and all beer types from lager and ale to stout.

It’s strictly for those who take their drinking seriously – I’ve asked Santa for one.

Best Christmas gifts for sailors £200 – £500

Ocean Signal rescueMe MOB1

The more portable personal rescue devices are, the more likely they will be worn or carried. Ocean Signal’s new MOB1 is 30% smaller than competitor AIS MOB devices .

It can alert any AIS-equipped vessels in the vicinity to the precise location of a casualty in the water, and it will fit on any inflatable lifejacket’s oral tube. It also includes DSC alerting so can both pinpoint a MOB location via AIS, plus trigger the yacht’s own VHF alarm.

Decathlon Tribord Sailing Jacket Offshore 900

This French company develops and retails its own brand products, but doesn’t change its ranges unnecessarily merely to suit the whims of fashion. The result is long-lasting gear at very competitive prices.

This is the firm’s top-specification offshore jacket, made from a three-layer fabric with four times the waterproofing rating of typical inshore products.

It also has a high collar, adjustable hood with rigid visor, double sleeve seals and two hand warmer pockets. In addition, there are two cargo pockets and a further secure and drier pocket under the storm flap.

Buy it now from Decathlon

Garmin Virb Ultra 30

If your choice of action camera is more defined by durability, audio and picture quality, consider Virb cameras. Garmin continues to upgrade its rugged and waterproof (to 50m) Virb cams with increased resolution and a variety of mounting options.

Buy it now f rom Garmin

Spot X satellite messenger

A neat two-way satellite messenger, with communication via SMS or email. The Spot X has a Qwerty keyboard, can be linked to Facebook and Twitter accounts, and has tracking and SOS functions. Satellite coverage is via the Globalstar system. Note that you will require a subscription to use this on top of the purchase price.

Garmin Instinct 2S Solar

The Instinct 2, launched in February 2022 is Garmin’s all-round watch, which they call their outdoors watch. Features that are particularly relevant to sailors include GPS positioning on charts; barometric pressure and a compass.

It has smartphone connectivity, receives emails and texts, and can control music via a phone. This watch also has an inbuilt thermometer and heart rate monitor.

The Garmin Instinct is available in no fewer than 20 different styles and colours. It’s actual diameter is 47mm (1 13/16” in) but the viewable face is 32mm (1 1/4”). The Instinct is 16mm (5/8” in) thick and weighs 53g (2 oz).

For racing sailors, it also has multiple start sequence options. We have an indepth review from long term testing of this watch coming soon.

The Garmin Instinct watch is a good alternative for anyone seeking a more moderately priced alternative to the Garmin Quatix 6 .

Best Christmas gifts for sailors £500+

Quench manual watermaker.

Hydro Wind Energy is aiming to produce 100 million Quench Sea desalinators in the next seven years! This unit has triple pre-filtration and a small state-of-the-art reverse osmosis replaceable membrane rated for the production of 18,000lt of fresh water. It weighs 0.7kg and produces 2lt of water an hour.

Note: the first units aren’t scheduled to ship until October 2021, but a voucher for one could be welcomed as a Christmas gift with a difference.

Buy now from Quench Sea

Swellpro Spry+ Plus Waterproof Dron e

Swellpro made the first fully waterproof quad copter that also floats. This new drone is an update to that ‘splash’ model and has many of the same great features including the ability to shoot 4K video and 12MP images. It also has a payload release feature for carrying and releasing items, including safety gear. SwellPro has released the 3 rd  generation of the SplashDrone, with improved features, including a ‘follow me’ mode. Use it to capture some unique footage of your yacht, take a beer to a friend, or even drop a life-ring to a casualty in the water.

Bluefin Cruise inflatable paddle board

The Bluefin Cruise is very stable for paddling and has a fair amount of buoyancy thanks to its width and depth. Of course this does also mean it is more affected by wind and waves than other, smaller designs.

I like that the grip runs almost all the way to the tail of the board, meaning you still have grip to stand on if you have a heavy dry bag strapped to the attachment point on the nose of the board – or a small child – both of which would see you stand much further back than normal

This model excels in versatility and manoeuvrability, making it well-suited for most novice or occasional paddlers.

Garmin Quatix 6 sailing watch

The latest generation of Garmin’s sailing smartwatch adds optional Bluechart g3 cartography enabling it to function as a standalone plotter. It also gains a larger 1.3in always-on screen and a MOB detection feature. As with previous generations, it can be used to interface with Garmin chartplotters and instrument data, as well as controlling autopilots and on-board entertainment.

If your budget quite won’t stretch that far, read our guide to the best sailing watches available right now.

Best Christmas gift ideas for sailors

If you didn’t find anything in this list that’s perfect for the sailor in your life, you might want to browse some of the options below for a whole range of sailors’ favourites. And if you’re still stuck, there’s always the good old gift card…

Best watches for sailors Best handheld VHF radio Best gloves for sailors Best binoculars for sailors Best stand up paddle board Buy Gael Force Marine gift vouchers Buy Bass Pro Shops gift cards

Travel Tips and Trivia

Last Updated: January 23, 2024

25 Great Gifts for Boat Lovers [2022 Best Boating Gifts Guide]

Searching for the best gifts for boat lovers? Check out this guide! You’ll discover 25 incredible gift ideas for boat owners and enthusiasts.

Danny Newman

Hunting for great gifts for boat lovers? I hope this post helps!

We all know someone who lives and breathes for their next adventure on the water.

Indeed, around 4 million Brits go boating on one of the UK’s 1 million registered watercraft every year.

Meanwhile, across the pond, a whopping 100 million Americans take to the water every year on more than 12 million registered boats!

Do you have friends who are passionate about boating?

Would you like to get them some boat accessories or boating gifts they’ll love (and actually use)?

Well, read on!

Here’s a go-to list of great gifts for boat lovers.

Heads up, this post contains affiliate links.

Here we go then: 25 great gifts for boating enthusiasts!

Looking for gifts for boat owners? You might also like these…

• 30 Best Gifts for Long Distance Friends
• 60 Best Travel Gifts for Men
• 50 Best Gifts for Kids who Travel
• 100 Best Gifts for RV Owners
• Gifts for Hikers

25 Best Gifts for Boat Lovers

Whether you need boating gifts for him or for her, that serve a practical purpose or simply add to the fun, there should be something here that does the job!

Practical Boat Owner Gifts

Let’s begin with 5 top gifts for boat owners that solve a problem onboard!

1. Waterproof Dry Bag

Nothing puts a damper (quite literally) on a boating excursion than uninvited water.

Rough seas, high winds, or a passing shower can wreak havoc on an otherwise pleasant outing.

That’s why waterproof dry bags are some of the most practical boat owner gifts you can give.

They allow people can easily store their phones, cameras, food, outerwear, and anything else that needs to stay dry.

2. Cocktail Bar Drink Caddy

A day on the water isn’t complete without some type of tipple.

The problem is that it can be tricky to keep those drinks from spilling!

Keep those bottles, cups, and glasses secure with this classy caddy from Docktail Bar.

Pre-cut slots keep two bottles, three cups, two knives, and two bar accessories safe and secure — no matter how big the waves get.

3. Electronic Fish Finder

A relaxing day of boating is one thing. A serious fishing trip is another.

If your boating friends love to fish, they won’t want to spend hours circling the shores looking for the best catch.

Make their lives easier with this high-resolution, sonar-based fish finder.

The split-shot transducer reveals exactly what’s under the boat, while the GPS plotter makes navigation a breeze.

4. Premium Boat Scuff Erasers

These gifts for boat lovers may not be the sexiest, but they’re essential boat accessories that every owner will appreciate!

A few drops of water is all it takes to activate these erasers, which effortlessly remove scuffs and dirt from the boat’s interior and exterior.

There’s no bleach or other harsh chemicals, so they’re safe to use on virtually any surface.

5. Fishing Tackle Storage Bag

Tackle, lures, and bait, oh my!

If your boating friends love to fish, they know how frustrating it can be to keep track of all those tiny items they need.

Make it easier for them to land their next big catch with this convenient tackle bag.

It’s tough and water-resistant, with seven internal and external compartments to hold a variety of fishing gear.

The best gifts for boat lovers don’t have to be practical! Sometimes it’s all about having fun.

Fun Gifts for Boating Enthusiasts

Some of the best gifts for boat lovers are all about fun. Here are 5 lighthearted items they’re sure to adore:

6. Vinyl Floating Keychain

If you drop your keys when you’re getting into your car, no big deal — you can bend over and scoop them up.

But if you drop your keys overboard when you’re on a boat, that’s a whole different story!

Perhaps one of the most practical gifts for boating enthusiasts is this adorable floating keychain.

Whether the keys go overboard or your friend dives in and forgets their keys are in their pocket (whoops), this keychain will float right to the surface.

7. Heartland Boat Plaque

Did you know there’s a patron saint of sailors and seafarers?

Legend has it that the adventurous Saint Brendan sailed from Ireland in the 6th century and made it as far as Iceland, Greenland, and even the shores of America!

St. Brendan the Navigator has been protecting sailors for 1,500 years, and he can do the same for your boat-loving friends.

Get them this small brass plaque for their boat so they’ll have ultimate peace of mind every time they raise the anchor.

8. Matching Captain & First Mate Hats

Who’s in charge when all hands are on deck?

These adorable embroidered caps leave no room for mystery.

The baseball-style caps are 100% cotton with fully adjustable closures, ensuring a perfect fit for both men and women.

As to who actually gets to wear each cap, we’ll let your friends decide!

9. Custom Engraveable Compass

Before the days of GPS and Google Maps, sailors had to rely on compasses to navigate.

Compasses are among the best gifts for boat lovers because they’re not only thoughtful but highly practical.

This customisable compass is made of corrosion-resistant antique brass.

Its lightweight, pocket-sized design makes it easy to carry anywhere. Choose from one of their inspirational quotes or write your own to engrave on the inside.

10. “Things I Love” Funny Coffee Mug

Would you describe your boat-loving friends as coffee connoisseurs?

If so, this hilarious mug could be the perfect boat gift idea.

Beneath the ship’s wheel design is a list of things the drinker “almost” loves as much as their boat.

As you may have guessed, the list includes items like talking about, driving, and looking at their boat. It’s sure to bring a smile to their face and — bonus — it won’t break your budget either.

Next up: some boat owner gifts that involve eating and drinking.

Food and Beverage-Related Gifts for Boaters

Know someone who loves taking good food, cold beers, and fine wine out onto the boat with them? The following boating accessories could make ideal gifts:

11. Nautical-Themed Stemless Wine Glasses

Next up on this list of great gifts for boat lovers is a set of wine glasses that look like they’re made of glass but are actually made from BPA-free plastic.

The stemless design is perfect for a day on the water, and the four unique designs mean there’s no need for wine charms.

They’re also perfect for the beach, the pool, a day by the lake, or anywhere else you don’t want to use actual glass cups.

12. Ship’s Wheel Cheese & Charcuterie Board

If you’re hunting for a really clever gift, look no further than this wooden cheese tray in the shape of a ship’s wheel.

It’s not only unique, but it’s incredibly practical too.

The round design sits on a lazy susan, making it easy to spin on any surface.

And the spokes of the “wheel” are actually an assortment of pullout cheese tools that fit into magnetic slots!

13. Beer Coolie Nautical Gift Set

Is that your beer or mine?

With this beer coolie set, no one will ever lose or confuse their beers onboard again.

The six-pack set includes six uniquely decorated coolies with funny quotes such as “Knot your can” and “What happens on the boat stays on the boat.”

They’re machine washable and they also fold flat for easy storage on or off the boat.

14. “I’m the Captain” Stainless Steel Tumbler

Keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold with this elegant stainless steel tumbler from The Navy Knot.

This cup is sure to bring a smile to your friend’s face when they read the tagline:

“I’m the captain, to save time let’s just assume I’m always right.”

It’s cheeky, it’s fun, and its spill-proof, insulated design makes it ideal for all seasons.

15. Oversized Floating Cooler

Storage space is limited on most boats, and keeping drinks cold can be a real challenge on those hot summer days.

Solve both problems with this ingenious Airhead Aqua Oasis floating cooler.

Your friends can tie it to the side of the boat for easy access whether they’re in the water or lounging on the deck.

Bonus: It also works great in pools and at the beach!

Looking for boating gifts that involve gadgets, electronics, or useful little gizmos? Check out this next section:

Gadgets and Gizmo Gifts for Boat Owners

Some boat owners can never have enough gadgets on board! If you’re buying a present for someone like that, then check out the following 5 ideas:

16. DeckMate 6-in-1 Boating Tool

It can be frustrating to keep track of different tools on a boat, especially if you need to adjust or fix something quickly.

This handy (and downright ingenious) tool is one of the best boat gift ideas I’ve seen anywhere!

The tool includes a bottle opener, toggle pull, hex nut socket, shackle key, flathead screwdriver, and universal deck keys, all attached to an ergonomic handle.

It also includes a lanyard to ensure it won’t fall overboard.

17. Motor-Powered Underwater Scooter

This underwater scooter is sure to make your boating friends the coolest people on the water!

Lightweight and portable (yet surprisingly powerful), this scooter is easy for both adults and kids to use.

Simply power it up, grab ahold, and relax as it propels you effortlessly through the water at a leisurely 3.35mph.

18. Spot Gen4 Sat Messenger

Everyone wants to stay connected these days, even when they’re enjoying a day on the lake or the sea.

And, in the event of an emergency, it’s crucial to be able to connect with the mainland!

This satellite messenger fits comfortably in the palm of your hand, but it’s packed with mapping and tracking features.

It also uses global GPS to transmit location, which means it works even if the boat’s outside of normal cell phone range.

19. Marine Bluetooth Stereo Radio

Do people still listen to standard AM/FM radio stations?

With this marine radio, your boat-loving friends can stream all their favourite playlists from Pandora, Spotify, and much more.

It works with any device that’s Bluetooth-enabled, including tablets and smartphones.

It also has a built-in mic for answering incoming calls, meaning they won’t have to fumble for (and potentially drop) their phones while onboard.

20. Inflatable Two-Person Kayak

Unless your friends have a yacht, chances are there’s not much space onboard for additional watercraft.

That’s why this inflatable kayak is such a brilliant buy!

When it’s fully inflated, it’s over 3 metres long and can comfortably and safely hold two adults.

When it’s not in use, it can be stowed away inside a convenient carrying bag with the oars and pump.

Last but not least, let’s go through some unique gift ideas for boat owners.

Unique Boat Gift Ideas

Still hunting for the perfect gift for a boat lover in your life? This set of unique boat accessories may have what you need:

21. 438 Days: An Extraordinary True Story of Survival at Sea

Whether your friends are seasoned sailors or novices, they’re sure to appreciate this incredible story of survival at sea.

The book is the true story of two fishermen who left for a weekend fishing trip from Mexico.

An unexpected storm pushed them out to sea, where one of the men survived for fourteen months before washing up on an island in the South Pacific — over 7,000 miles away!

22. Antique Ship Decanter

A lot of these gifts for boaters are designed for use onboard — but probably not this one.

However, your boating friends will enjoy using this beautiful gift in their home!

This handcrafted decanter features a striking antique sailing ship design and four stemless glasses with world maps.

It’s perfect for wine, whiskey, or scotch and is sure to become the focal point of any room they keep it in.

23. Anchor Fleece Throw Blanket

What’s a boat lover to do when it’s too cold to be on the water?

The next best thing is to cosy up at home beneath this nautical-themed throw.

The micro-plush blanket is velvety soft to the touch and easy to care for — it’s machine washable in cold water.

Choose from a variety of colours stylishly decorated with anchors, sealife, or other fun patterns.

24. Swedish Dream Seaweed Hand Cream

Nothing takes a toll on your skin like long days in the sun and saltwater.

If you’re out of ideas for boat accessories, why not give your friends something to help them take care of themselves?

The same family has been making this seaweed-based skin cream for over 25 years.

Its rich formula is made with shea butter, lavender, calendula, and other natural ingredients to nourish dry, rough skin.

25. Ship’s Log/Boat Journal

This beautiful hardbound journal is sure to win a coveted place in any cockpit.

Its 100 pages are lined with places to track excursions and maintenance.

There’s also room to include photographs and other memorabilia from different outings.

A pen holder, place marker, and gilded monogram of a sailing ship complete this book’s distinct look.

Remember These Great Gifts for Boat Lovers

This list of the best gifts for boaters could have gone on much longer!

But hopefully the suggestions above have given you some inspiration for what to buy.

From funny items like coffee mugs to big-ticket items like fish finders, there should be something here to float peoples’ boats.

And remember, no matter which boating gift you choose, the best gifts for boating enthusiasts come from the heart!

The recipient’s sure to appreciate the thought as much as the item itself.

Now you’ve perused this list of great gifts for boat lovers, what comes next?

Well, why not check out these gifts for beach lovers too?

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30 Nautical Gifts for Boaters They’ll Actually Want

By Grace Healy

Any kind of water-based activity requires special equipment, so it can be hard to choose the right things. This is why we have put together this collection of useful and thoughtful gift ideas for boaters, which will not only make your life easier, but will make their next sailing, kayaking, or fishing trip even more enjoyable. And for the times when they’re on terra firma, there are gifts for the home that they’ll actually want, too.

Life Preserver Ring

This personalized life preserver is for decoration purposes only, which is just as well as it looks too lovely to use. Made from Styrofoam, it comes personalized with any names, dates, or 2 line message (up to 24 characters) and is perfect for hanging on the wall of a pool house.

Atomic Bear Paracord Bracelet

If you’re buying for any adventurer, whether it’s on land or by sea, this bracelet could save their life. Combining five of the most essential tools any survivalist could need, this adjustable bracelet includes a firestarter, compass, emergency whistle, knife, and 12 feet of paracord which could just prove invaluable.

The Nautical Origins of Everyday Expressions Book

Many of today’s well-known phrases can be traced back to naval beginnings, and this book explains many of them. With 200 words and phrases included, Three Sheets to the Wind explores the origins of these classic expressions and will fascinate wordsmiths and seafarers alike.

Boat Hair Don’t Care Baseball Cap

Whether it’s from the wind or the salty air, boating isn’t conducive to having a neat hairstyle. With this trucker cap she can show the world that it doesn’t bother her. There are four designs to choose from, but each one declares ‘Boat Hair Don’t Care’ along with pink or blue detailing.

Mariner Cheese Board and Tool Set

The ideal way to serve cheese either on the boat or on land, this beautiful cheese board and tool set will make a fabulous gift for boaters. Made from durable rubberwood, the revolving board is in the shape of a ship’s wheel, and includes four handy tools that hide away on the side.

Captain's Word Brass Sign

They can remind their workmates, shipmates, friends and family exactly who’s boss with this fun brass sign. Fully lacquered so it can be used indoors or out, this handsome plaque comes with wall or door fixings, and reads ‘The Captain’s Word is Law’ along with a nautical anchor.

Personalized Boat Mat

Safe for all kinds of boats including teak, this boat mat will add a cozy finishing touch to their pride and joy. Available in three sizes and three colors, the mat comes with a non-skid back that won’t leave a mark, and can be personalized with ‘Welcome Aboard’ plus the boat’s name.

Stemless Boat Wine Glasses

A wonderful set to add to their boat’s collection, this quartet of stemless wine glasses has a subtle but stunning nautical theme. Made from a durable BPA-free plastic with the look of real glass, these glasses are each etched with an elegant seafaring symbol – an anchor, compass, life ring, and wheel.

Island Reef Coasters

Remind them of the ocean even when they’re firmly landlocked by giving them this set of four striking drinks coasters. Handmade using a beautiful tropical blue resin and real beach sand, these coasters each contain tiny silhouettes of some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures.

Custom Love Boat Portrait

This fun portrait makes the ideal gift for a couple who messing about on the water. Sitting together in a tiny rowing boat, this couple can be customized to resemble the people you know and love, and can be ordered already framed, or left unframed so you can choose your own.

Seascape Cast Currency Sculpture

The intricate detail on this Seascape Sculpture is even more remarkable when you realize that the tiny boats are hand cut from coins before being cast in bronze. Mounted on brass tubing, the boats and the waves appear to be floating on water, a feeling boat lovers will instantly appreciate.

Row Boat Serving Bowl

This superb salad server will bring the joy of boating to even the most landlocked dinner party or barbeque. It’s made from aluminum ‘wooden planks’ to give it its finished sheen, and comes with a pair of sheesham wood serving utensil oars, which sit prettily in their oarlocks when not in use.

Coastal Serving Board

This stunning serving board will add an instant coastal vibe to any dinner party, whether it’s formal or informal. Not designed for cutting on, this board is made from maple wood and features the most remarkable resin detail that will make them feel as though they’re picnicking on the beach.

DeckMate 6-in-1 Boating Tool

There’s no doubt about it, sailing can be hard work, and as such, it requires a whole bunch of specialized tools. Save hassle and space with this 6-in-1 boating tool, which houses deck keys, shackle key, zipper pull, hex tool and screwdriver in one handy non-slip instrument.

Weber Portable Propane Grill

Compact and portable, this grill is ideal for taking on their next river or sea-faring adventure. Arriving fully assembled, this grill runs on Propane gas and features one stainless steel burner and porcelain-enamelled cast-iron cooking grates. With an easy-start ignition, it’s ideal for beach and river-side cook-outs.

125 Piece Marine Tool Set

Like any vehicle, boats can and will break down and go wrong. Make sure they’re equipped to deal with boating DIY with this GreatNeck 125 Piece Marine Tool Set. With ratchets, sockets, hacksaw, pliers, and more included, the whole set comes in a waterproof case that actually floats should the worst happen.

Captain & First Mate Hats

Make sure they know their roles with this pair of matching hats. Made from 100% cotton so they’re durable but cool, one of the caps comes embroidered with ‘Captain’ on the front, while the other reads ‘First Mate’, along with an attractive golden anchor motif. Available in black or white.

Funny Boating T-Shirt

While sailing is, for the most part, a relaxing hobby, there are certain times when it can really cause tempers to flare. This hilarious t-shirt comes in five colors, and is printed with a large white anchor motif, along with an apology that reads ‘Sorry for What I Said While Docking the Boat’.

Boat Gadget

The less stuff they carry onto the boat, the better, which is why this Boat Gadget is so useful. Doing the job of ten individual tools, this gadget incorporates a bottle opener, corkscrew, plug wrench, whistle, gas cap and key, fishing line cutter and more into one handy handheld tool.

3 Bottle Insulated Wine Tote Cooler Bag

If leisurely trips out in the boat are on the cards for a boater you know, this insulated tote bag will prove invaluable. Available in four colors and designs (including nautical blue and white stripes) the tote can hold three full-size wine bottles and comes with a handy corkscrew opener.

Heartland Saint Brendan Protect Us Boat Plaque

This plaque will look stunning on their boat, and it comes supplied with two mounting screws to make it super easy. Made from brass, this plaque is made in the shape of a ship’s helm, and features the figure of Saint Brendan – also known as The Navigator – along with a short blessing.

Ship's Log

This Ship’s Log will make a really practical gift for boaters as it covers 5 logs in one, meaning they don’t need loads of extra paperwork lying around. With a Ship’s Log and Cruising Log, this book also covers Vessel Inventory, Fluid Changes & Fills, and Maintenance, Repairs & Upgrades.

Nautical Knot Tying Kit

Tying knots is an essential part of sailing, and it can take time to learn all the different knots needed. This Nautical Knot Tying Kit will speed up the process, as they can practice the art anywhere. Covering 20 most-used knots, the kit includes waterproof instruction cards, cords, and cleat.

Laichow Braid Boater Hat

Few items of men’s clothing are more reminiscent of a gentler age than the classic boater hat. Made from 100% Laichow straw, this charming hat includes a twill sweatband inside to keep him looking and feeling cool, as well as a two-tone stripe grosgrain band and bow.

Boat Scuff Erasers

If their boat is their pride and joy and they can’t bear to see any scuff marks on it, give them this set of three Boat Erasers. Free from bleach or other harsh chemicals, these erasers work like magic at removing marks on deck, console, and seats, as well as the interior.

AIRHEAD Dockline

With a built-in bungee cord concealed within the rope, this dockline acts as a shock absorber, protecting the boat from bumps and scrapes. With two foam floats situated along the length of the line, there are also sliding adjusters to ensure the loops fit over whatever cleat is available.

Custom Map Tide Clock

Very clever and a great conversation piece, this clock measure the ebb and flow of the tide rather than time. Custom printed with a coastline or waterway of your choice, this clock is divided into high and low tide, and the hours leading up to them.

Personalized Family Canoe Art

You can choose from 2 to 14 characters to include in this fun and alternative family portrait. Customized with clothes, hair color and style, and skin tone, there are even options to include the family pet, with each character being accompanied by their name and a place that holds special meaning.

Lake Topography Art

Give them a gift to remind them of their favorite lake with this beautiful topographical artwork. Framed in cherry wood, each 3D map can be made in a single or multi-layer format from painted maple plywood and shows water depths as well as surrounding landmarks, towns, and roads.

YETI Roadie 20 Cooler

They can stay hydrated and cool while off on a day’s sailing with the YETI Roadie 20. Designed with extra-thick insulated walls, this cooler is virtually indestructible and can accommodate up to 14 cans, while keeping ice icy thanks to the 2 inches of PermaFrost insulation.

Sperry Men's Sea Kite Sport Moc Boat Shoe

Half moccasin and half sports shoe, the Sea Kite offers all the comfort and versatility of a deck shoe, with the performance of those worn on the track. Available in a variety of colors, from Sudan Tan to Gray with orange detail, these shoes are a must have for boaters.

Funny Boat Shirt

T-shirts make a great gift idea for boaters as they always need comfortable clothing for when they’re out and about on the water. This funny tee is super soft and made from ringspun jersey cotton for a relaxed fit, and comes with a funny boating slogan on the front.

ReelSonar Bluetooth Smart Fish Finder

Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, the iBobber will let them find fish wherever they go. Using an iPhone or Android device, users can map out locations, water depths, species, water temperature and more, and even share on social media with their other fishing buddies.

SailorBags Wallet

Made from sailcloth, this wallet is ideal for sailing and boating as, unlike leather, it can be washed in the machine to get rid of salt stains and tide marks. Less bulky than a standard wallet, this one sits comfortably in a back pocket, making it a more comfortable fit.

JBL Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Now they can have some tunes when they’re messing about on the water, thanks to the JBL FLIP 4. With wireless Bluetooth streaming and 12 hours playing time, the Flip 4 is waterproof and perfect for all-weather playing, and even allows for conference calls, and Siri or Google Now activation.

Row Boat Serving Bowl with Wood Serving Utensils

This salad serving bowl makes a fun and functional gift idea for boaters. Crafted from silver-plated aluminum in a high-shine finish, the rowing boat also comes with a pair of oars (serving utensils) which have been carved from beautiful sheesham wood and sit in the brackets when not in use.

Lake Life Hoodie

Perfect for when they want a cold one but need to keep their hands free in between sips, this Lake Life hoodie acts as a helping hand. With a hidden neoprene bottle holder concealed inside the pocket, there is also an attached bottle opener for added convenience.

Boat Cleaner Microfiber Sponge Kit

Space is at a premium on boats, and the smaller they are the less room they have. Help them keep theirs shipshape with this cleaning kit, which includes a collapsible bucket for easy storage, as well as chenille and microfiber sponges, and a lint-free cleaning cloth inside a handy bag.

Ray-Ban Wayfarer Polarized Sunglasses

Sunlight is intensified when it bounces off water, so a good pair of shades is essential. The New Wayfarer from Ray-Ban is as stylish as ever and comes in a range of colors and styles, but features 100% UV protection, meaning their eyes will be protected without compromise.

Nikon Zoom Binoculars

You get a totally different viewpoint from the river, lake, or sea to the one you get on dry land, and it would be a shame to miss all the wonderful sights. These binoculars are both lightweight and ergonomic, and offer a non-slip grip even when hands are slick with water.

Sea Salt Soap

With a beautiful, fresh scent, this bar of soap is made from salt which has been harvested naturally from the ocean. Known for its skin softening properties, this Swedish-inspired bar produces a rich lather which is ideal for showering, bathing, or a close wet shave.

Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak

Give them the means to spend hours on the water with an inflatable kayak. This model is designed to seat 2 people comfortably, and comes with aluminum oars and air pump, so it includes everything needed to get going. And for added safety, it’s bright yellow for easy visibility.

Folding Deck Chair

Much more comfy than a standard folding chair, this one is ideal for whiling away the hours on the deck of a boat. With composite feet to keep floors safe, this thickly padded chair is mildew-resistant, and folds flat when not in use so it won’t get in the way.

Set Sail Wind-Up Sculpture

A lovely gift for someone who’s missing the ocean, this sweet diorama can sit on their desk or bookshelf. Handmade from wood, this cute little box features a metal handle which, when turned, creates waves inside with a sailing boat bobbing happily up and down.

Sailing Ship Kite

This has got to be one of the coolest kites ever made, and it will delight sea dogs and spectators alike. Creating quite a spectacle as it soars through the sky, this bright white galleon is handmade by Balinese artisans and actually uses its sails to help it to fly.

Carhartt Men's Mayne Lightweight PVC Bib Overalls

Perfect for fishing or for warding off sea spray, these PVC bib overalls are – of course – totally waterproof so will keep him dry in even the toughest conditions. Machine-washable, they come in green, yellow, or black, and feature electronically welded seams for added peace of mind.

Custom Lake Art Cribbage Board

For those times when they can’t be out on their favorite lake, there’s always cribbage. This wooden board has been laser-etched with a map of their favorite body of water, complete with topographical details, and comes with aluminum pegs and a bronze-filled cork plug.

The perfect gift for a very special occasion, this seascape has been entirely created by hand from coins. Using both American and foreign coins, the tiny boats are hand cut and then cast in bronze, before being captured in a beautiful porthole-like frame in keeping with the nautical theme.

ONYX Kayak Fishing Life Jacket

Keep them safe while also being fully equipped with the ONYX kayak fishing life jacket. Fitted with numerous pockets to hold all their essential gear, this jacket also has a high back to accommodate seating, and six adjustable straps to ensure a safe, comfortable fit.

YETI Hopper Sidekick Dry

Keep belongings bone dry even in the wettest of conditions by using the YETI Hopper Sidekick Dry. Designed to be attached to one of many Hopper models, plus the Camino Carryall and HitchPoint Grid, this pouch is completely impenetrable, even if it takes a dunk in the water.

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Best gifts for sailors: everything you need for the boater in your life

• Duncan Kent
• June 20, 2022

Long time sailor, Duncan Kent casts his eye over the boating market and picks our his suggestions of the best gifts for sailors available right now

Whether you need to buy a present for a boating obsessed partner, sailing sibling, or paddle board loving parent, finding the best gifts for sailors and watersports enthusiasts can be difficult.

As experts in the sailing and watersports fields, we’ve gathered up some of the top watersport gifts in the market to help you to choose whether whether yor budget is small or big.

Best sailing gifts for watersports lovers

Optimum Time Sailing Watch OS11

Easy to use in a sailing environment, the Time Series 11 watch comes in black with a soft-touch PU strap and stainless-steel buckle.

It has a large 26mm diameter LCD with clear 10mm high digits, making it simple to read even in high stress situations. Being water-resistant to 5m depth also means it will shrug off spray and rain.

Features include common sailing timers such as pre-programmed start sequences, 5/4/1/0-minute warning countdown alarms and a synch button to ensure spot-on accuracy.

Buy it now from Amazon

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Wurkkos DL30 Diving Torch

If it’s good enough for professional scuba divers, it should be rugged enough for even the most adventurous sailors. Sporting three powerful Samsung LH351D LEDs, the DL30 has three easily selected light levels, the most powerful of which provides 3,600 lumens of light with a range of up to 220m. Normally powered by a 4,800mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery, it is also compatible with standard 18650 batteries should you need an instant energy refresh.

The torch is made from aircraft grade 6061 aluminium, so is rugged, lightweight and non-corrosive. It’s also fully waterproof to IPX8 standards (submersible to 50m depth) and comes with a stout wrist lanyard.

Aquapac armband phone case

This armband phone case is UV resistant and fully waterproof down to 10m, yet it still allows you to hear and be heard, plus operate all the touchscreen functions (except for fingerprint recognition) when sealed shut with the quick twist catches.

Ideal for staying in touch or even keeping an eye on a remote navigation app, the strong Velcro arm strap is fully adjustable and allows the phone to be rotated around the arm for easier viewing.

Available in two sizes.

Ultra Dry Premium Waterproof Bag

Available in three sizes (10l, 20l, 30l) and five attractive colours, this premium dry bag will keep your clothes completely fresh and dry no matter how leaky the boat is!

The bags also feature a handy, splashproof, zipped side pocket for small items such as phones, keys, knives etc.

The smaller 10l bag has a single shoulder strap, while the 20l model has two. The 30l bag also has two straps, but these are padded for extra comfort. There is a separate, quick-grab handle on the top of all of them.

Free with every bag is also a waterproof phone case on a lanyard.

Shoreline Marine Self Inflating Key Buoy

The Davis Key Buoy is designed for those dreaded moments when you let the boat keys slip from your hand and into the water. Attached to the a keyring like any other keyfob, it leaps into action as soon as it is submerged, inflating a small built-in bag that then forces it to rise to the surface for easy retrieval. A bargain for such peace of mind!

Reeds Skipper’s handbook

The popular, pocket-sized Reeds Skipper’s Handbook is packed with useful information for the small boat skipper and its concise and easy to read format makes it an invaluable quick reference guide or memory jogger.

The latest (7th) edition has been thoroughly revised, with updated text and clear illustrations throughout.

Victorinox Skipper knife

Makers of the renowned Swiss Army Knife, Victorinox, produce a nautical version that boasts all the best features of the SAK, such as its top-quality stainless-steel corkscrew, bottle opener and tin opener.

The additional Skipper’s tools, however, are designed specifically for the sailor and include a shackle key, marlin spike, pliers with wire cutters, flat and crosshead screwdrivers and, of course, a super sharp, locking serrated blade for slicing through heavy rope in an instant. A must for the sailor’s belt!

Don’t miss our guide to the best boat knives

Underwater camera

Compact cameras are still preferred over their built-in mobile phone equivalents in specialist environments such as on or under the water. This budget device has dual 2.7in and 1.8in (selfie) screens, 48Mp still resolution, powerful 2K 1080p video resolution, USB connectivity and a MicroSD card slot for up to 128Gb of storage.

It also has a variable self-timer, continuous still shooting (six frames each press), a built-in flash and is waterproofed to IP68 standards, which means it can be used down to 3m deep for up to an hour without the risk of water ingress.

Glare-proof sunglasses

Designed with sailing in mind, these sunnies are light (just 31gm), flexible and boast a wide field of view. The indestructible, polarised, grey-tinted lenses cut the glare from the sea and their 100% UV resistance protects the wearer’s eyes from possible UVA and UVB damage.

Rubber inserts on the inside of the temples and nose provide a good grip on the face, even in windy and active situations. The nose pads are also designed to aid free air circulation, preventing them from steaming up.

The frames, which float if dropped overboard, come in dark petrol blue and in two sizes, S and M.

Buy it now from Decathlon

A knot a day

Not many of us can remember more than a dozen or so useful knots so this 368-page, info-packed book makes an essential addition to the chart table bookshelf.

The book offers a new knot challenge for every day of the year and includes some of the more decorative craft knots as well as all the essential bends and hitches.

Knots are colour coded by their category and step-by-step colour photographs and illustrations provide an easy-to-follow guide to their completion.

Adult sailing gloves 900

Neoprene-based sailing gloves are ideally suited to cold, wet conditions as they continue to provide good grip in all conditions. The material of these full-fingered gloves helps trap heat around the hands, keeping your fingers warm enough to work with lines, winches etc., while the palms are coated with Duragrip (polyurethane), to protect your palms from abrasion.

Available in three sizes, in black/grey colour only.

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22+ best gifts for boaters, sailors, captains, & yacht owners.

Do you have a family member or friend that is passionate about boats and seamanship?

Giving meaningful gifts to boating enthusiasts is a pretty hard task, especially when it involves someone close to us. What if you give the wrong gift or something that is totally unusable for the recipient?

We know the struggle. There are so many sub-niches to consider when talking about boating that one can easily go wrong when trying to understand what to give on a special occasion. That’s exactly why we decided to write this article.

Whether you want to offer a gift to a young yacht captain, an inexperienced deckhand, a sailing enthusiast, or a prestigious yacht owner, we’ve got you covered! In the next few chapters, we list the best gifts for boaters, across all budgets and interests, to help you get more ideas.

Table of contents

Best gifts for sailors

Gifts for yacht owners.

• Gifts for yacht captain
• Other boating gifts

In this section, we share some of favorite gift ideas for sailors. They are more focused on the crew of a vessel (deckhand, 1st Mate) and others that are more actively involved with the day to day maintenance of both the interior and exterior of the ship.

Arc’teryx Squamish Hooded Jacket (For men)

Arc’teryx is known as one of the most popular yacht clothing brands and the Squamish hooded jackets are a staple among boaters. They are lightweight, windproof, and built especially for weather shifting conditions. This specific jacket is considered to be one of the most popular options for men and comes in many different colors. So next time someone isn’t sure what to wear on a yacht, especially when working outside, you will have a great gift idea.

Price: $159.00

Gill Crew Sport Lite Jacket (For women)

Speaking of windbreakers for sailors, the Gill Crew Sport is considered to be essential outerwear for women onboard. It is built with anti-pill polyester fabric that makes it both waterproof and very comfortable. Aside from the obvious, the jacket also features a thermal collar,  pockets to warm up your hands, and an internal pocket to protect your valuables.

Price: $143

Boat Name Embroidered Hats

The most unique gifts for sailors are obviously those that are personalized. And while there are many options to benefit from custom-made items, a simple hat can already go a long way. Not only is it great for the crew of your boat, but it also makes a budget gift with sentimental value for those that decide to head over to their next adventure. There are many options when it comes to the customization of such hats, so make sure you check what works best for you.

Price: Starting from $22.99

OLAS Guardian Wireless Engine Kill Switch

On the other hand, if you are looking for some cool gifts for sailors, you might look for something that is both usable and somewhat “techy”. That’s exactly what the wireless engine kill switch from OLAS is. The gadget is built to stop the engine of a vessel automatically, in case of falling overboard, and creates an alarm sound to inform the rest of the crew. It is the best gift for boaters that operate in rough weather conditions.

Price: $323

OLAS Float-On

Another very useful gift that any experienced boater should have is a compact floating torch. The OLAS float-on is a multifunctional safety-aid that has both a strong alarm system and a water-activated strobe. It connects with a native app to control all aspects of its performance and is useful during rescue situations.

Price: $136

Best yachting magazines - Annual Subscription

Are you looking for a great gift for sailors that still fit within a reasonable budget? Then an annual subscription to their favorite boating magazine might be the answer. Note that it might be hard to give this if your friend or family member spends most of the year on sea since delivery is made to a single address. However, in situations where they have to remain stranded for longer periods of time, it makes for a good present.

Price: Varies

Are you visiting a friend’s yacht for a party or a short holiday? Do you want to thank your hosts for choosing you are their captain? There are many reasons to browse gifts for boat owners. We tend to believe that (super)yacht owners are very versatile in their preferences, which is why we chose gifts along with all types of budgets. Let’s delve in!

Best sailing hat - Tilley LTM6

Tilley hats are certainly not a budget option, but they are well known within the yachting industry for their durability during all sailing conditions. The hat is specifically made for seamen and comes with many features, such as UPF 50+ scores, water resistance, floatation, and a strap to protect from windy weather conditions. The top of the hat is also built to not sit against your head, which adds to its breathability. The hat itself comes with lifetime insurance and its manufacturers claim it is the last hat you will ever buy.

Personalized wooden board sign

If you are looking for something more personalized while still remaining on a budget, then you might want to offer a wooden board sign with an inside joke about the owner, the name of the vessel, or anything else that comes to mind. The size of the board is 21cm x 11cm, and that includes the 8mm natural jute rope which “frames” the wooden canvas. Overall, it is one of the best yachting gift ideas if you wish to give a pleasant surprise to the owner of the vessel.

Custom-made Yacht painting

One of our favorite yacht gift ideas (especially for proud boat owners), is a custom painting of their vessel. This type of gift is very thoughtful and makes a perfect present for people who celebrate the purchase of their yacht. Note that the drawing is custom made but needs to be downloaded as a digital product and printed on high-quality paper. You will also need to purchase the frame separately, which may add to the cost.

Exotic hardwood backgammon board

Board games are an excellent onboard activity for yacht owners and their guests. And since the interior of most yachts is most often decorated with wooden elements, it might be a good idea to consider a matching gift. And who doesn’t love backgammon? The board of this set is made of solid woods that include oak, maple, Sapele, Padauk, and Peruvian walnut. Its price is in the “mid-range” of our recommendations.

Price: $390

“Arcachon” Oyster Knife

Another elegant yet unusual gift idea for yacht owners is an oyster knife. This specific model has a natural cocobolo wood handle that hugs a stainless steel blade. It is named after one of the most popular oyster capitals in the world and produced by Larusmiani.

Price: $570

IWC Schaffhausen Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph

If you want to give a high-end gift that speaks to yacht owners, then you might want to consider the Portugieser Yacht Club watch. The marine-colored watch comes with a rubber strap, perfect for humid weather conditions, is water-resistant to 6 bar (60 meters depth), and offers a sporty look.

Price: $14.700

Yacht captain gifts

Choosing gifts for boat captains is probably one of the hardest things to do, as there are many different options to consider. For the sake of this article, we will focus more on young captains, possibly those recently promoted, who are mainly responsible for (super)yachts.

Best sunglasses for boating - Cinder Cone Hero

Polarized, lightweight sunglasses make one of the best gifts for yacht captains. They are not only aesthetically pleasing but more so essential for sunny weather conditions. The Cinder Cone Hero is all that and more. Weighing less than one-third of normal aviator-type sunglasses and comes with a titanium frame, which makes it extra durable. The pair also comes in different shade colors.

Price: $299.99

Best waterproof binoculars - Steiner Bluhorizons

Another very important yet often overlooked essential for captains is a pair of good binoculars. The Steiner Bluhorizons is one of the best options thanks to their lightweight, small size, and water resistance. They are a great addition to a captain’s basic equipment and surely make one of the best gifts for boaters.

Price: $270

Straight Razor Set

One more essential for captains is their shaving equipment. While most will choose to shave with safety razors, you could take things one step further, gifting a straight razor with all its necessary additions. The A.P. Donovan set offers the highest quality in the market. The blade is made from Japanese steel which is incredibly sharp, and the handle consists of Mahogany wood, making the razor well balanced. The shaving brush is equipped with badger hair, while the leather strap is made from Kazakh cow skin which sharpens the blade better than grindstone.

Price: $189.95

Funny t-shirt for captain

What about some less expensive boat captain gifts? There are many options to consider, but if you want to have a good laugh, consider giving this funny t-shirt with a word twist. It is a great gift idea for new captains, and will certainly make for a memorable moment.

Stone Island Sweater

The high-end fashion brand is an excellent choice when trying to find appropriate clothing for yacht captains. This particular sweater comes in marine tones, is made of navy wool, and illustrates a symbol that represents the cardinal directions, an important element for captains.

Price: $678

Tiffany 1837 Makers silver compass

This is probably the best gift for captains from all the options on this list. A compass is an essential item for captains, and this piece from Tiffany’s takes things to the next level. The branded compass is made from sterling silver which makes it both an elegant accessory and an investment piece.

Price: $1000

Rolex Yachtmaster 42 

Of course, one of the most high-end gifts you can give is a Rolex watch specially made for “yacht masters”. This beautiful timepiece comes with an Oysterflex strap for extra durability, water resistance (10 bar), and a rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel which can be used, among others, to calculate the distance between two buoys. It surely makes one of the best gifts for boaters, but comes at a very high cost.

Price: $27.800

Best gifts for boaters - Other options

In the final chapter of this article, we will show you some alternative boating gifts. We showcase cool boat accessories and gadgets, as well as other types of essentials you might need while onboard.

Xiaomi M365 Electric Scooter

Electric scooters seem to be the new trend within big cities, and for good reason: They are easy to carry, small in size, and very practical for those that want to get around. This is exactly why they are one of the best gifts for boaters. From the moment you dock, this handy electric scooter can get you around in style, while saving time and money.

Price: $546

The Superyachts 34

The Superyachts 34 is a high-quality hardcover book showcasing the world’s most prestigious superyachts, ranging from 37 to 136 meters. This collection of illustrations makes a great gift for yachting enthusiasts and can be given on any occasion, but its price is considered to be above average and thus not a budget solution.

Price: $200

Deck Boss Ankle Boots

While discussing the best gifts for boaters, we should also mention our favorite footwear. The Deck Boss ankle boots are built to accommodate the needs of those that spend a long time on the water. They feature thick insoles that provide shock resistance, razor siping which improves the boot’s grip on wet surfaces, and a natural gum rubber outsole to maximize water resistance. Whether you are looking to buy these books for a deckhand, captain, or yacht owner, it is a gift that will improve daily life at sea.

Price: $99.99

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Cool Boating Gifts for the 2020 Holiday Season

• By Boating Tech Team
• Updated: November 3, 2020

Boating’s 2020 Holiday Gift Guide delivers a list of boating gifts from the expensive to the affordable (cheap, even!) and in a variety of categories from DIY, to clothing, to marine electronics, accessories, and more. It is a gift list curated by the world’s foremost powerboating experts, the editors of Boating, to help you choose the best gift for the boat owner in your life. Even if that boater is you!

Whether you need a gift for a new boat owner or someone that seems to always have everything onboard, you’ll find something on this list. If you need more gift ideas, check out some of our previous gift guides . Happy Holidays!

Quatix 6 Solar

Garmin’s Quatix 6 marine smartwatch will make a great gift for the boater on your list, thanks to a solar-charging face that extends time between charges even longer than previous-generation Quatix and Fenix watches. It still interfaces with Garmin navigation equipment and Fusion audio systems, all while tracking steps, heart rate, sleep quality and ­duration, and more. An internal GPS module makes it a legitimate navigation device with downloadable maps. The watch has a Bluetooth module to connect to smartphones, and a Wi-Fi module to connect to a smartphone or network. It can run weeks, not days, on a single charge with GPS and Wi-Fi turned off. $700 for standard model, $1,000 for Titanium; garmin.com

Zhik Face Mask

For a great stocking stuffer, check out this -weatherproof, washable face mask. It is -comfortable to wear when on the water. Made of polyurethane foam, it is not medical-grade, but helps boaters who need to practice social -distancing. It has a one-way valve to help with breathing. $34.95; zhik.com

Time Concepts Hawaiian Lifeguard Association Watch

Give the gift of time with one of these sporty-looking watches with stainless-steel housings. They are waterproof to 656 feet. The rubber straps are easy to buckle and can be changed for a different look. $250; timeconcepts.net

Grundens Men’s Gaff 11-Inch Shorts

These rugged nylon-spandex shorts have a rugged DWR (durable water repellent) finish to stand up to any offshore environment. They dry quickly and feature a zippered security pocket to keep your keys or cash from falling overboard. $74.99; grundens.com

Booe Hybrid 20 Waterproof Backpack

Any boater will love to get this waterproof and airtight backpack as a holiday gift. Its waterproof zippers prevent leaks into the bag. While it floats, it’s also submersible to a meter (3.2 feet) should you laden it down with tons of gear. $199.99; booe.com

Flylow Davis Jacket

Wrap up this breathable windbreaker for the boater on your list. It’s great for heading out on the water when there’s a chill in the air. It adds a layer of protection and water resistance, yet is lightweight and breathable enough to help prevent overheating. $93.75; flylowgear.com

Salty Crew Men’s Palomar Pinnacle Hooded Tech Shirt

Boaters everywhere will love this technical hoodie made of four-way-stretch poly fabric with a UPF 40 sun-protection rating. It also features a quick-dry fabric. The long sleeves have thumbholes to offer additional protection for your hands. $46; westmarine.com

Surf Monkey Gear Face Shields

A good face shield is one of the best stocking stuffers you can give to your boating and water-loving family members, and Surf Monkey Gear makes some of the coolest. Made 100 percent in America at its Florida factory, the Surf Monkey Gear shields are versatile, breathable and moisture-wicking, and feature SPF 50-plus protection. There are hundreds of designs to choose from for all your friends and family, including one that works perfectly for those ugly-sweater parties. $27.99 to $34.99; surfmonkeygear.com

Heybo Boca Grande Long-Sleeved Shirt

Make sure the boat captain on your list looks great whether on an office Zoom call or working the rods in the cockpit of a center-console. The UPF 30 fabric helps shield the wearer from the sun, and dries quickly should it get wet from a rain shower or spray. $54.99; heybooutdoors.com

Huk Kona Woven Short-Sleeved Shirt

With seven cool Hawaiian-esque styles to choose from, the Huk Kona short-sleeved shirt will keep the boater on your gift list cool and dry on the water while looking good. The lightweight, breathable fabric dries quickly, and is soft enough to clean sunglasses at the helm while being stylish enough to wear for dockside dining. $55; hukgear.com

Marine Electronics

Clarion Sport Grille RGB LED Speakers

Watch the ears perk up when the boater on your list sees these Clarion CMS-651RGB speakers. Built to last in the marine environment, they offer outstanding sound. They put on a light show too with the RGB version, and adjust the light to match any mood. The 6.5-inch speakers are waterproof, corrosion-resistant and UV-protected. A woofer cone gives thumping bass, and a polymer tweeter is high-pass-protected for a long life of providing clear, crisp notes. $149.99 per pair; clarion.com

Icom America M93D VHF Handheld

Give the boater on your list this fully equipped handheld VHF with all marine and weather channels. It’s equipped with GPS, can save 50 waypoints, and gives steerage information on the LED screen, including speed and course for accurate navigation. The radio floats for added safety and security, and comes with a battery pack, AC adapter/charger, ­12-volt outlet cable, belt clip and a hand strap. Durable and protected by a three-year warranty, it is a coveted holiday gift. $249.99; icomamerica.com

Any boater on your list will love this nifty video camera. GoPro’s new Max offers 360-degree mics and a crisp shotgun mic. It can capture 270 degrees of distortion-free footage with excellent stability control. It is also a 360-degree camera or an amazing VLOG cam with a front-facing screen. Using GoPro’s app, a boater can pan to any segment of the surrounding imagery and record video. It shoots 6K for standard or surround, and comes with a free 64 GB microSD card. $499; gopro.com

Ecoxgear SolJam Audio Player

Big sound from this little device comes from dual 10-watt speakers and a passive subwoofer. That makes it a great holiday gift for the boater on your shopping list. It plays for up to 12 hours on a charge, and it will play longer with solar support. It’s waterproof and dustproof, with an IP67 rating. A waterproof charging port connects to a charger, or plug in your smartphone to recharge it. It floats if dropped, and there’s also a threaded hole on the bottom for versatile mounting options. $150; westmarine com

Roswell R1 8-inch LED Stereo Speakers

With 200 watts of peak power and 100 watts of continuous power, these 90 dB speakers make a great boating holiday gift. The polymer woofer cone is illuminated by LEDs and the 1-inch silk tweeter in the center renders the high, clear notes. They are available with black or white frames and grilles, and a snap-on ring to conceal fasteners. $379 per pair; roswellmarine.com

Lowrance Hook With Fish Reveal

If the boater on your list also likes to fish, this might be the perfect gift . Genesis Live Time Charting enables a boating angler to create personalized, detailed sonar charts. Fish Reveal combines Lowrance CHIRP and DownScan sonar on one screen, giving incredible detail and contrast. SideScan sonar is also included. Sonar is auto-tuning, so there’s more time to fish. Split Shot allows four different sonar displays, or the sonar and chart to display side by side, and the entire system is available complete with transducer in 5-, 7- and 9-inch screens for $349, $399 and $799, respectively; lowrance.com .

Fusion StereoActive

This portable Bluetooth stereo features a 40-watt amp and dual 20-watt speakers, giving the boater on your holiday list big stereo sound. A single three-hour full recharge lets it play music for 20 hours from a Bluetooth-equipped device or a low-profile USB drive. It’s internal AM/FM/Weatherband radio plays music and reports weather independent of any other device. It comes with an adhesive mounting puck, or select the Active Safe mount ($100) to keep your keys, wallet and phone in watertight security in your firmly connected StereoActive. $220; fusionentertainment.com

Harbor Freight Battery/Alternator Tester

Boaters deal with many electrical problems. While it’s no replacement for a digital multimeter, this tool can help the boater on your gift list narrow down the cause of battery or battery-charging problems aboard the boat. Functional and inexpensive, it’s a great stocking stuffer. $3.99; harborfreight.com

Watersports

Liquid Force Launch Wake Foil

Looking for a unique gift for the adventure- loving boater in your life? Check out the Launch Wake Foil from Liquid Force. Wake foils can be ridden behind any kind of boat or even a PWC, and bring a whole new floating feeling to watersports. The Launch is designed for first-time riders, with a foil that offers more stability at slow speeds, and a wider board that’s easier to ride and features removable foot straps—great for those learning to get up. $1,299.99; liquidforce.com

HO Marlin iSUP

Give the gift of enjoying the water in a new, convenient way this year. A lot of inflatable stand-up paddleboards aren’t great in the performance department, but HO’s new Marlin series is designed to change that. Built to be more rigid and lighter weight, the Marlin features a longer, narrower shape for faster, more efficient cruising. Two bungee tie-downs make bringing extra gear easy, and the Marlin comes with a two-way hand pump, paddle and comfortable carrying case. $899.99 for 12-foot-6-inch model, $999.99 for 13-foot-6-inch model; hosports.com

Sharkbanz 2 Shark Deterrent

Keep the boater on your list safe from sharks with the Sharkbanz 2 , which straps on a wrist or ankle. The deterrent uses powerful built-in magnets to keep sharks at bay—no batteries needed. $84; sharkbanz.com

Radar Session

A great gift for the water-skiing fan in your life is the new Session ski from Radar. Built with more surface area for added stability and ease of use, the Session is designed to be fun without feeling sluggish like other larger water skis. Getting up and arcing turns, even on open-water lakes, are easier than ever before thanks to the Session. $299.99; radarskis.com

Slingshot Boss Hoss

The Boss Hoss , the latest wakesurf board from Slingshot, is designed to take the frustration out of trying to ride the waves, and that makes it a great gift for boating enthusiasts. The Boss Hoss is designed to be ridden on even the smallest of waves, and still allows riders to drop the rope and experience what surfing behind the boat is all about. Think of the Boss Hoss as the gift that keeps on giving. $599; slingshotwake.com

Want to give one of the coolest gifts of the year? Look no further than the YuJet, a jet-powered, all-electric surfboard that is guaranteed to deliver big fun. Featuring a high-powered, swappable battery and wireless remote throttle, the YuJet can reach speeds up to 24 mph and run for 40 minutes. The design features a stable platform and padded decking, making it easy for all skill levels. $9,999; yujetusa.com

Fishing Gear

Penn Fathom Low-Profile Reel Series

We used to call these reels baitcasters, but today’s versions do so much more. That’s why the angler on your list will love a new Penn Fathom Low-Profile reel. Available in 200, 300 and 400 sizes, these streamlined reels are easy to cast, and feature metal bodies, strong gears and smooth drags for battling powerful fish in fresh and salt waters. Starting at $249.99; pennfishing.com

Spro King Daddy Frog

If the boating angler on your list likes to fish lily pads for bass, then get one or two Spro King Daddy Bronze Eye 90 Frog lures as stocking stuffers. These lifelike topwater lures are snag-proof and come in new colors like Navy Seal, Yellow Sparkle, Outback and Albino. They are designed to be cast into heavy cover and twitched back, and generate explosive strikes from bass or even muskies. $16.22; spro.com

Seaguar Gold Label Fluorocarbon Leader Material

If you’ve priced fluorocarbon leader material , you know this will be a hit as a stocking stuffer. Seaguar’s Gold Label fluoro is tough and strong, but also supple, thin and virtually invisible underwater. The angler on your holiday list will hook and land more fish as a result. Available in 2- to 40-pound-test, all in 25-yard spools. Starting at $18.99; seaguar.com

Ocean Born Flying Popper Tuna Rocket

Saltwater lures don’t get any cuter or more effective than the 100 mm size of Ocean Born’s Flying Popper Tuna Rocket . The angler on your list will love the way it pops, spits, walks and creates a bubble trail. It comes with single hook in floating, sinking and super-long-distance models in four color patterns, and is great for tuna. $18.50; abandofanglers.com

Gamakatsu Stainless-Steel Pliers

You can’t go wrong by giving the boating angler on your holiday list these stainless-steel fishing pliers from Gamakatsu. With a PTFE coating, they ward off rust, and have jaws that serve as line cutters, crimpers, a split-ring tool and a hook remover. They include a nonslip grip, lanyard and sheath. $24.99 for 6-inch model, $26.99 for 7-inch; tacklewarehouse.com

PowerPro Depth-Hunter Offshore Braid

PowerPro Depth-Hunter Offshore braid features colors that repeat in a pattern of five—blue, yellow, red, green and orange— every 100 feet, so the angler on your list can gauge the amount of line let off the reel. It’s low-stretch to provide outstanding sensitivity and hook-setting performance, and available in 65-, 80- and 130-pound-test in spools of 1,000, 1,500 and 3,000 yards. Starting at $129.99; powerpro.com

Minn Kota Raptor Shallow Water Anchor

Make room under the tree for this because it’s big, and the bass- or bay-boat owner on your list will love it. The Raptor hydraulic anchor pole from Minn Kota can hold boats securely in place in shallow water. It features hydraulic deployment and retrieve, Auto Anchoring, Auto Bottom mode and more, and is available in a range of colors. Starting at $1,499; minnkotamotors.com

Plano Z-Series Tackle Bag Series

With all the tackle you’re giving the boating angler on your list, you’d better include a way to keep it all organized. One of the two new Z-Series zipperless tackle bags from Plano will hit the mark. These durable bags feature a waterproof base and PVC fabric, with not a single zipper to corrode and stick. $64.99 for 3600 model, $79.99 for 3700; planomolding.com

Bubba Hook Extractor

Once an angler on your holiday list catches a fish, the hook needs to come out. That’s where the Bubba Hook Extractor comes in. The sturdy 6-inch tool makes it easy to remove hooks with one hand, even hooks that are deep. Give it a twist with the spring-loaded hook, and you can release or keep your catch. This makes a great stocking stuffer. $29.95; midwayusa.com

Morakniv Floating Knife

Boaters love knives , and this one with a polymer handle encased in cork will be a big hit. If dropped while cutting lines or limes on board, it will float. And the lime-green, plastic-handle core and sheath make it easy to spot if it goes overboard. $29.99; industrialrev.com

Boater’s Choice

Fujinon Techno-Stabi TS 1440 14×40 Binoculars

The boater on your holiday list needs powerful binoculars ; the more powerful, the better—to a point. When they get too powerful, the motion of the boat and hands is amplified, making it difficult to get a clear view of the target. Fujinon eliminates that in these 14×40 highly magnified optics with electronically stabilized imaging. The subject remains steady in the eye pieces, and that means this holiday gift won’t tire the eyes. Pricey? Not when they add so much safety to your pilothouse. $1,300; westmarine.com

Mercury 3.5 hp Outboard

Powerboaters love power. And whether it’s to power the dink that gets the boater on your list to her boat, or the primary power for a small fishing boat, Mercury Marine’s 3.5 hp four-stroke outboard motor can get the job done. $1,089.89; westmarine.com

Forespar Sta-Plug

Here’s a gift you hope never gets used. Its soft-cone-shaped design allows it to fill the irregular shapes of hull-impact breaches, as well as any round hole leak from a hose or through-hull. Edge-gripping riblets help hold the plug in a hole, keeping water out, sealing a leak near the edge where a tight fit is crucial, and holding the plug more securely in place. $19.95; forespar.com

We love boating with our dogs. (Who doesn’t?) If the boater on your gift list feels the same, then we suggest the gift of Load-A-Pup . This doggie-boarding platform easily attaches to a swim ladder, and allows cruising canines easy access to and from the water. Available in several versions, including saltwater and hunting editions. $180; greatdayinc.com

Sea Sense EZ In Garboard Plug

Forgot the drain plug? Doh! Now your boater has to travel all the way back home. However, with this high-visibility key fob, she’ll likely remember the plug in the first place. And if not, this one even works as a temporary garboard plug. $2.99; academy.com

Quicksilver Gear Lube and Pump Kit

If you are buying a gift for the handy boater, consider this gear lube and pump kit from Quicksilver. It contains a hand pump with a fitting made for 3/8-16 threads and a 32-ounce bottle of Mercury Quicksilver 90-weight gear lubricant. $26; amazon.com

Allied International Lifting Magnet

Whether used to retrieve a set of car keys dropped overboard, or simply for the fun of fishing for whatever ferrous metal objects might be lurking at the slip or anchorage, the boater on your list is sure to enjoy this PVC-coated, powerful magnet with 110 pounds of lifting strength. $24.99; westmarine.com

Attwood Bottle Opener

Attractive, functional and oh-so old-school, the boater on your list will love to mount this solid stainless-steel Attwood bottle opener in a key location of the galley or cockpit, perhaps right over a special cup to collect the bottle caps. That’s how boaters did it back in the day. $12.59; amazon.com

Motorguide Tiller Extension Handle

Got a boater who runs a dinghy or trolls from a small boat? That boater will appreciate this universal extension handle , which allows them to sit farther forward while operating the outboard motor. That allows for a better-balanced boat without a lot of bow rise. Adjusts up to 24 inches. $28.65; amazon.com

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51 gifts for boaters that are guaranteed to make a splash.

Anchors up! If you’re shopping for a gift for a boater, you might knot know where to start. Between fishermen , sailors , water sports enthusiasts, and lake lovers, there are all sorts of gifts on the market to appeal to one’s nautical side. And this list has all of the best ones, right here in one place! The nautical gifts on this list have a little bit of everything. From floating drink coolers that’ll turn their boat into a booze cruise, to cool maritime fashion, to handy maintenance tools, to must-have fishing equipment, you simply can’t go wrong. So, read on for gift ideas for boaters that will REALLY make a splash.

Waterproof Solar Powered Portable Charger

The Big Bobber Floating Cooler

Docktail Drink Bar Caddy

Magma ChefsMate Boat Grill

Personalized Captain Name Baseball Cap

The Underwater Camera Drone

Magic Boat Erasers

Sorry For What I Said When Docking The Boat

DeckMate 6-in-1 Boating Tool

Dog On Water Ramp For Boats

ReelSonar Wireless Bluetooth Smart Fish Finder

FishEye Prank Gift Box

Yeti Loadout Bucket

Captain Hat

Personalized Nautical Tumblers

Bote Hangout Suite

Intex Inflatable Floating Cooler

Personalized Engraved Working Compass

Barefoot Water Socks

Waterproof Floating Dry Bag

My Boat My Rules Personalized Shirt

Big Joe Captain's Chair Float

The Waterproof Rope Knots Guide

Boat Cleaner Microfiber Sponge & Bucket Kit

How To Make Knots Coffee Mug

Saltwater to Freshwater Converter

Tickets To The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Roxant Grip Scope Monocular

A Personalized Portrait Of Your Boat

Waterproof Wearable Pouches

Paracord Tactical Survival Bracelet

Yeti Indestructible Gear Box

sublue Underwater Scooter

Big Joe Massive Floating Waterpad

Ship In A Bottle Whiskey Decanter

Full Face Snorkel Mask

The Floating Boating Knife

JBL Charge 3 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Boat Cleat Bottle Opener

E-SeaRider Marine Beanbag

Anchor Bracelet

Rite In The Rain Weatherproof Notepad

Sailor's Knot Wreath

BoatUS Unlimited Towing Membership

SeaKits Damage Control Kit

100-Piece First Aid Kit

Talos Lightning Strike Detector

DOMETIC Portable Refrigerator & Freezer

Xtratuf Performance Rubber Deck Boots

KastKing Polarized Sport Sunglasses

Vexilar SonarPhone With Transducer Pod

Personalized Captain Name Shirt

Quick Adjusting Boat Trailer Hitch

Garmin Quatix Marine Smartwatch

Garmin InReach Mini

Fisherman's Scrub Bar

CreekKooler Floating Drink Cooler

WORKPRO Electrical Repair Kit

Marmot Waterproof Rain Jacket

Salt-Away Salt Removing Cleanser Kit

Yeti Rambler Vacuum Insulated Mug

Sperry Billfish Boat Shoes

Cleat Fridge Magnet

Leatherman 21-in-1 Multi-tool

SOG Keychain Pocket Knife Multi-Tool

UV Protection Face Mask

ACR Wearable Personal Locator Beacon

Yeti Tundra Cooler

Sea Salt Soap

Clear Threat Lobster Net

DemerBox Waterproof Drybox Speaker

Sailing Bookends

Other Gift Ideas

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70 Most Seaworthy Gift Ideas For Boat Owners

A’hoy there, captain! When it comes time to get your sea-worthiest pal and favorite boating enthusiast a little something for their boat or home, we have got you covered with these great gifts for boat owners.

We did all the leg work, so sit back and scroll on! Below, we’ve curated 70 excellent gift ideas for boaters, each one better than the last. 

They’re always ready to head for open water, but this must-have-on-deck gear will get them borderline giddy to set sail.

Best Gifts for Boaters

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1. Custom Watercolor Boat Painting

Turn their favorite sailboat into a custom watercolor painting ! This will grace their cabin walls for a long, long time. It’s super easy, too. 

All you do is choose your size and send the talented artists a photograph of your beloved boaters vessel. Voila! 

A truly one-of-a-kind gift that they will swoon over. Way better than a gift card if you ask us…

2. Custom Captain Hat

Leave no doubt to who is manning the helm with this cute, custom captain’s hat. 

Perfect for keeping the sun out of their eyes as they float and sail along, this cap is personalized with their name. Great for men and women alike!

3. Marine Binoculars

What’s that there on the horizon, matey? Check it out with a great pair of marine binoculars like these! 

Totally practical, your seafaring rover will be reaching for these again and again. An ideal gift for your fine boating friend.

4. Boat Boarding Mat

Welcome aboard all of your friends and family members with this fun boat boarding mat! 

It brings a touch of style and whimsy to your boat, and everyone will love it. A simple way to spruce up your space, and it’s so practical, too! 

5. Inflatable Kayaks

For water sports, these inflatable kayaks are the bee’s knees! Easy to store when not in use, they won’t take up too much space in their garage like normal kayaks do.

They’ll get so much use out of these “small boats,” and they make the perfect gift. So easy to set up, too.

6. Personalized Fish Tumbler

This personalized fish tumbler will come in handy on the boat, and it’s made of high-quality stainless steel so you know it will last and last! 

It will keep all of their hot beverages warm and toasty, and their cool drinks nice ‘n frosty. What more could you ask from a tumbler?

7. Custom Nautical Map

What a fun gift this custom nautical map is! You can pick the size and — not only that — you can choose from metal, acrylic, or canvas, too. 

Totally unique and made to please even the most finicky boat captain. 

8. Sailor’s Farewell Dish Set

What a beauty this ‘Sailor’s Farewell’ dish set is! It’s almost like a work of art that is also completely functional and useful. 

The set is made of the finest bone china and trimmed in 24k gold. And the whole collection tells a story, which might just be our favorite part. 

9. Cobra Floating VHF Radio

This Cobra floating VHF radio is going to be their favorite new piece of technology guaranteed! 

As practical and essential as it is nostalgic, they’ll love staying in communication with one another in such a timeless way.

Get updates on weather emergencies, US and Canadian as well as international radio channels, and so much more. 

And it’s not only top of the line in water resistance, it’s also fully submersible , too! That means if it accidentally goes over the side of the boat there’s nothing to worry about. Unless you can’t swim…

10. Coastal Navigation Class

Live your best sailing life with a coastal navigation class! Get educated and really know your stuff — you’ll be so glad you did. 

A super thoughtful gift for you and all of your boat-loving friends, they’ll be so grateful that you’ve given a gift that really is priceless — knowledge.

11. Wireless Waterproof Speaker

This wireless, waterproof bluetooth speaker turns your ordinary day on the boat into something special! 

Crank up your favorite tunes while sailing along under the blue skies — doesn’t that sound like a perfect afternoon? 

12. Engraved Fly-Fishing Gear Box

Help protect the coral reef with this engraved, fly fishing gear box! 

Rustic and handsome, this box will be something special that your boater friend passes on to the next generation one day. 

13. Blue Lizard Sunscreen

Don’t come back from sailing looking lobster red! Keep your skin safe and protected with this great sunscreen from Blue Lizard. 

No one ever regretted putting on sunscreen, after all, but we can’t say the same for the other way ‘round… 

14. Stained Glass Ship Art

With its vibrant blues that remind us of the ocean, this stained glass ship art is original and lovely! 

Such a great gift idea for boat lovers, it will fit right in with their boat decor whether at home, on deck, nestled in with their fishing gear, or used as a centerpiece. 

15. StaYmo Boat Shock Absorber

Get rid of the wibbles and wobbles on your boat as you calmly troll the waters with this StaYmo boat shock absorber! 

Those fishes won’t know what sneaked up on them. And it comes in a variety of different colors which just makes it extra fun. 

16. Garmin Fishfinder

Find out where that mother lode of fishes is hiding with a Garmin Fishfinder! 

Totally worth its weight in gold, this makes a day of fishing like a day at the beach… Well, you know what we mean. 

Related: The Fisherman Gift Guide

17. Stamp Boat Bookmark

Never lose your page and do it with style with this great stamp boat bookmark. It’s surprisingly easy to keep your TBR pile to a minimum when you never need to worry about finding your place. 

Time for “one more chapter!” 

18. Waterproof Floating Dry Bag

A waterproof backpack? Say no more! This floating dry bag will come in ever so handy at all the opportune and inopportune times.

Never worry about soggy phones, lunches, or shoes again. The waterproof design is patented to keep your goods high and dry.

19. Beer Subscription

What’s a day on the lake without some beer? Lame, that’s what! This beer subscription is a great gift for a boater. And they’ll get to appreciate it and thank you each and every month. 

20. LifeStraw Filter Water Bottle

These LifeStraw Filter Water Bottles are so great for using on the boat where space is limited! 

They’ll be reaching for it again and again. As they should, since it’s so important to stay hydrated when you’re out in the sun all weekend long. 

Boat Warming Gifts for New Boat Owners

21. ship christening champagne.

Do you know what the new boat owner really needs? To christen that new boat with something bubbly and delicious!  But why? Where did this tradition come from?

While the custom of christening ships has been around for thousands of years, in 1890 the US Navy’s first full-steel battleship, the U.S.S. Maine, was christened with a bottle of champagne. Queen Victoria followed suit in 1891 when she christened H.M.S. Royal Arthur, and the rest is history!

It’s tradition and so much fun, after all. Once the new boat has an official name and has been celebrated properly, you can pass around the decadent chocolate truffles.

22. Custom Boat Pillows

Personalize your boating accessories with these great custom pillows . So cute, adorable, and functional, too! 

Did we mention they’re super soft and squishy and perfect for a lazy afternoon nap? Because they definitely are.

23. Welcome Aboard Personalized Welcome Mat

Help them give a hearty welcome to all of their friends and family with this cute ‘Welcome Aboard’ personalized mat. 

It brings some whimsy and character to the entryway and will also keep dirt and debris from coming inside their little mansion on the water. 

These also make a perfect present for their home on land, too! So maybe snag one for each location.

24. Anchors Aweigh Personalized Coasters

For personalized, unique gifts these ‘Anchors Aweigh’ coasters are just the thing! They bring some fashion and interior design into your boat, and also come in handy for all of those times when water rings are trying to bring you down. 

Granted, it is a boat and water is kinda everywhere… But you know what we mean.

25. Custom Boat Name Decal

It took forever to come up with your boat’s name and now you need to tell the world! These custom vinyl boat name decals are an easy and inexpensive way to jazz up the boat’s exterior. 

Easy to apply, yet secure and lasting. Plus, vinyl is the recommended for boats. Win-win!

Gift Ideas for Boat Captains

26. captain jack bottle opener.

Made of maple and walnut woods and cast iron, this chic Captain Jack bottle opener is one-of-a-kind! Totally useful for cracking open all of those bottles of beer on the wall… 

Ninety-nine bottles, wasn’t it?

27. Handmade Italian Leather Sailing Log Book

Keep track of all of your adventures with this handmade , Italian leather sailing log book ! So handsome with its vintage vibe and retro appeal. 

It’s a wonderful way to jot down your sailing thoughts, observations, directions, and the like. 

28. Personalized Wooden Captain Sign

Whether your captain chooses to display it at home or on the boat, this personalized wooden captain sign will show everyone who’s the boss.

Crafted from thick, solid cedar wood and customized with raised lettering, this Made in the USA beauty is a creative and long-lasting gift for your favorite boat enthusiast.

29. Cigar Subscription

Argh, matey! A great sea captain needs an excellent cigar, don’t you think? 

This great cigar subscription scours the globe to find the very best in sophisticated smoking. Each and every month they can find a new favorite!

30. Personalized Decorative Life Ring

Every boat needs a life ring, but not every boat has one this good looking and personalized! Keep your sailors and guests safe and secure with a high quality ring like this one. You’ll be glad you did! 

Well, we hope you won’t have too many occasions to use it, but it’s still a good idea to have this handy tool close by.

31. Engraved Sailboat Whiskey Decanter

For a cool gift that can’t be beat, try this engraved sailboat whiskey decanter. So handsome and sophisticated! And so very unique, too, like a piece of art you can actually use. 

Get ready to hear the question “Where did you find that?!” quite a lot. 

Boat Gifts for Her

32. waves ring holder necklace.

Keep your favorite ring safe and near to your heart instead of on your finger where it can get in the way! Or worse, find its way into the depths of the ocean.

This pretty ring holder necklace is an accessory all on its own, but it comes in really handy as a great way to show off your ring and keep it safe as well. 

33. Insulated Wine Tote

This insulated wine tote keeps your favorite bottle of vino at exactly the right temperature, which is so important! 

Now you’re halfway to having that perfect picnic on the boat. Just add food…and you! And maybe a guest or two if you prefer.

Related: Best Gifts for Travelers

34. Boats Well With Others Shirt

Stay stylish yet casual with this cute ‘Boats Well with Others’ shirt! Your fellow boaters will be jealous and might want one of their own. 

You can pick out your favorite color, and the sizes range all the way from XS to 3XL. 

35. Handmade Sun Hat

For sunny days, this handmade sun hat is a real life saver. Well, a scalp and face saver, anyway! 

Plus it’s so cute and stylish, you’ll find yourself wearing it even on overcast days. We love a good hat like this. 

36. DIY Fishing Lure Earrings

Just because you’re a fisherwoman doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style and jewelry! 

These DIY fishing lure earrings are so fun and fashionable. And all your friends will want a pair, so get cracking, Linda. 

Practical Gifts for Boat Owners

37. floating keychain.

Raise of hands for anyone who has ever lost their keys while fishing? *Sheepishly raises mine.* 

Never again with these clever and oh-so smart floating keychains! Relax and keep reeling them in, all while not worrying about the state and location of your keys. 

38. Fire Extinguishers

Sure, you’re on the water, but you still need to have a good fire extinguisher! These fine specimens are not your mama’s fire extinguishers. 

So quirky and practically a work of art, you can choose your favorite design. And don’t even think of hiding it away in the back of a cupboard. These are meant to be seen!

39. Premium Flip Up Boat Seat

Relax in style with this premium, flip-up boat seat! So comfortable you’ll wonder how you ever got along without it. A great gift for a friend or for yourself, it pays you back in supreme comfort!. 

Good news for you and your tush.

40. Portable Solar Power Bank

This portable solar power bank is like having the power of solar panels at your beck and call. It will come in really handy during power outages, or just for use on the daily. 

Splash proof, too, making these perfect gifts for boat owners! 

41. Instant Pour Over Coffee

There’s a real lack of floating Starbucks, isn’t there? Well, until someone fixes that problem, we’ve got this great instant pour over coffee to the rescue!

Stay caffeinated, awake and happy with a great cup of joe on the lake or the ocean. And it tastes better than store bought, too! Now that’s a win-win.

42. Boat Scuff Erasers

Keep that fiberglass shiny with these great boat scuff erasers. Honestly, practical gifts make some of the very best boat gifts, if you ask us.

The only thing better than sailing on your boat is keeping it in tip-top shape! It’s super easy with these magic erasers. Cleaning has never been so addicting. 

43. Water-Proof Games

When boat life is family life, you’ll love having these great waterproof games to play! After all, you can’t swim your life away — sometimes you just have to dominate at some cards! 

44. Dynamic Life Vest

Life jackets and life vests are certainly not optional when you’re on a boat! These Dynamic vests are just the thing. They’ll fit everyone from the littlest tot to the largest seafaring family member. 

45. Waterproof First Aid Kit

Waterproof and water resistant first aid kits are such a great invention! 

Having this great one on your boat will give you peace of mind and will come in handy with everything from those darn fish hooks (hooking everyone but the fish), to scrapes and burns.

Here are some things you’ll want to consider adding:

• Pocket Guide to Emergency First Aid
• Needle Free Syringe — emergency eye-wash pump
• Mylar Thermal Blankets

High-End Gifts for Boat Owners

46. waterproof yeti cooler.

Splish! Splash! This waterproof YETI cooler is such a great gift idea. You’re going to look like a rock star when they unwrap this puppy. 

Hey, maybe now you’ll finally land that invitation for a weekend on the boat…

47. Damascus Steel Fillet Fishing Knife

You can never have too much fishing gear. Perish the thought! This Damascus steel, filet fishing knife is so good looking and really practical, too. 

It’s a great time for a fish fry, don’t you think?

48. Paid-For Boating Experience

Whether we’re talking short trips or long ones, boating experiences are so wonderful for your water loving friend. 

This paid-for experience is one for the record books. Order it ahead of time, get an instant voucher, and give it – then plan your trip!

They’ll love having the time of their lives, all thanks to your generosity and thoughtfulness. 

49. Bluetooth LED Distress Signal

Having a distress signal available in case of emergencies on the boat is super smart. 

 This bluetooth LED distress signal will give great peace of mind just by knowing it’s there if you need it. And hopefully you never will! 

50. Luxury Wine Chillers

These unique, luxury wine chillers are totally posh, and we are so here for them. Handsome as ever, they will keep your boat parties sophisticated and high-end — even if it’s a party for one! 

Funny Gifts for Boat owners

51. i wonder nautical mug.

Funny and cute! This mug will make your friend laugh and laugh because it’s simply so true. Great for coffee and tea — or a nightcap on the high seas — this delightful mug will be a hit. 

52. New Boat Fund

Something will break, it’s just a matter of when… So, stay ahead of the boating fund emergency by planning for the future now. This cute piggy bank is just the thing!

53. Metal Poop Deck Sign

Made of reclaimed wood, this sign is a keeper! We love it for the boat, but love it even more for its tongue-in-cheek humor in the head. 

54. River Life Beer Holding Hoodie

A hoodie with a can cooler and a bottle opener built right in? This is a gift that will give them a good laugh, but will also be worn just about every weekend. 

Bring on the party! Choose your size and favorite color until this hoodie is just right. 

55. Mystic Conch Shell

Based on an old SpongeBob SquarePants episode, this magic conch shell makes the hard decisions for them! Sassier than its cousin the Magic 8 Ball, this great gift will be the talk of the boat. 

56. Custom Moving Tide Clock

This handsome moving tide clock reveals a secret at low tide — either a stash of sea glass or a charming crustacean. Whichever you choose! 

So unusual in all the best ways, these are great gifts for boat owners or just for your favorite sea lover. 

57. Personalized Boating Socks

Now we’ve seen just about everything with these hilarious, personalized boating socks. They are going to look so great with a pair of Crocs and some Bermuda shorts, baby! 

We’re certain your favorite boater will love them, but if not, they’ll definitely get a hearty laugh at least.

58. Give a Man a Fish Beer Plaque

Turn the old adage into something even truer with this great beer plaque! 

The high-quality craftsmanship really stands out in a nice way, and the sign itself will totally transform your living space with its vintage appeal and funny wording. 

59. Custom Dude in Boat Bobblehead

What’s better than a bobblehead on a boat? One that looks like them of course! This custom dude in a boat bobblehead makes a great personalized gift. 

They’ll laugh and laugh, then put it in a place of honor so everyone can admire it properly. 

60. Sorry For What I Said

Yup, this one made me laugh out loud! This clever and oh-so-very true sticker is an easy and inexpensive gift for all your boating friends. We can all certainly relate…

Christmas Gifts for Boat Owners

61. engraved sailboat ornament.

An entire Christmas tree dedicated to boating and sailing? That would be sawweet! And this is a great place to start. 

This engraved sailboat ornament is cheery and festive, and will look absolutely amazing on your tree. 

62. Custom Anchor House Flag

When they have to be in their house instead of out on the boat, at least give a little nod to their seafaring ways with this custom anchor house flag. 

A great housewarming or moving gift for your friends this holiday season! 

63. Puffin Drinkware

Who says gifts for boat owners have to be all tactical and practical and stuff? Find the perfect drinkware for your friends with Puffin!

These clever and whimsical life jackets for your cans are so funny and delightful. We want them all! 

64. Water Skiing Rope

Get some high-quality water skiing rope that won’t break the bank! This great set is everything you ever wanted or dreamed of for your favorite water sport. 

Your friends will appreciate such a thoughtful and practical gift, too! 

65. No-Drill Clamp Cup Holder

It’s portable, easy to use and remove, and will be their favorite new “tool!” 

These no-drill clamp cup holders will come in handy all over the boat, while down at the docks, sitting around a campfire…there’s no place they won’t want to use this cool gift! 

66. Travel Inspired Scented Candles

Since the lake only goes so far, keep the travel dreams alive with these travel inspired candles ! Great for the boat cabin or for the home, they will fill your hearts (and nostrils) with wanderlust. 

67. Personalized Towels

A great set of towels — yes please! These personalized sets make the best Christmas gift, but we also think you might want to order a few for your own family. Oversized and ever-so plush, they won’t disappoint. 

Related: Beach Lover Gift Ideas

68. DIY Nautical Soap

Make some cool and fun nautical soap with this clever DIY ! It might just become your new addiction, and we know all your boat loving friends will appreciate a bar or two or three. 

69. Waterproof GPS Tracker

Don’t get lost out there while adventuring!! Or do, if that’s your prerogative… But we recommend not going missing.

This waterproof GPS tracker takes all the guesswork out of sailing. This is one of those must-have gifts for boat owners that they just shouldn’t have to live without. Second star to the right and straight on till morning! 

70. Sailing Ship Kite

We’re just in love with this beautiful sailing ship kite! It’s gorgeous enough on land, so just imagine it gliding through the air over the beach.

 A wonderful gift for the friend who has everything (because we’re sure they don’t have this!).

Read Next: Best Gifts for Boat Owners, Sailors, and Sailing Enthusiasts

Melyssa Williams

Melyssa Williams has been writing since she could hold a pen (or a quill, as she was an odd little duck). Sadly, she was born to two loving parents who fed her broccoli, taught her manners, and raised her with...

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41 Fantastic Gifts For Boat Owners That Will Make Them Happy

Looking for the best gifts for boat owners in your life? This post will give you ideas of practical boating gifts they’ll love and actually use!

If you know any boat owners, you probably already know how crazy they are about sailing. That’s why they’ll always appreciate getting some sailing-themed or boating gifts.

However, picking the perfect gifts for boat owners can be tricky, especially when you don’t understand anything about sailing yourself! Thankfully, you’ve come to the right place; we’ll give you some pointers.

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First, avoid buying boat engines or expensive pieces of equipment unless they ask you to.

Otherwise, you might accidentally spend hundreds of dollars on something that’s not actually compatible with their boat. Second, try opting for things they may need but currently don’t have!

Still confused? Don’t worry! Here are 41 amazing gift ideas for boat owners that will make them happy! So, let’s check them out!

Best Gifts for Boat Owners

From useful items they can use while boating to trinkets that will remind them of their favorite activity, here are our favorite boat gifts ideas in no particular order!

1. Premium Boat Scuff Erasers

Finding scuffs and dirt can be a nightmare for new boat owners. That’s why every boat owner needs to have a scuff eraser in their boat cleaning and detailing kit!

As the name suggests, this eraser can quickly remove any scuffs, dirt, grease, and stains from the boat’s body, deck, seats, and more!

They only need to add water to the eraser, scrub a bit, and everything will be as good as new!

2. Boat Cover

Heavy-duty boat covers are excellent gifts for boat owners. They’re essential for maintaining and keeping the boat in tip-top condition.

Made of PVC-coated canvas fabric, this boat cover is waterproof and UV resistant, so it can keep the boat protected all year round.

It also comes with elastic cords, buckles, and straps for easy installation. The best part? It’s universal so it can fit boats up to 14ft-16ft long with no problem.

3. Explorer Compass

Every boat owner needs a compass to navigate the water. This mountable explorer compass will be perfect for the job!

With built-in compensators, they can easily adjust it for deviations. It also has internal green light illumination, so they can still use it even when it’s dark outside.

4. Survival First Aid Kit

Safety first! Every boater needs a first aid kit on deck. Show your boater how much you care by giving them this 250-piece survival first aid kit .

It doesn’t just include regular medical aids, but it also contains survival necessities, such as a tactical flashlight, a multifunctional paracord bracelet, glow sticks, rain ponchos, and more. It will help keep your boater safe, no matter the situation.

5. Waterproof Dry Bag

Dry bags are a must-have for anyone who spends a lot of time on the water. They can help keep their items safe and secure, even in the worst weather.

Featuring a built-in IPX8 certified waterproof phone case, this dry bag is guaranteed to keep their smartphone dry no matter what.

Plus, the bag is made of waterproof and durable PVC, so it’s guaranteed to be a reliable sailing partner for years to come!

6. Binoculars

Binoculars may not be an essential sailing accessory, but they will certainly elevate your boater’s adventures!

These compact roof prism binoculars will allow them to bask in the beauty of mother nature.

Additionally, they come with a smartphone mount, allowing them to take better pictures and videos for their social media accounts.

7. Marine Bluetooth Stereo Radio

This is the perfect gift for boat owners who love tuning in to the radio every day.

This marine radio is a traditional AM/FM radio with Bluetooth connectivity. So, aside from listening to the radio, your boater can also use it to listen to streaming services and even answer phone calls!

8. GPS Fish Finder

If the boat lover also loves fishing, then this fish finder will be the perfect boating gift for them!

This ingenious gadget will help them navigate the water to find nice fishing spots.

Featuring Clear Vu Sonar, this gadget will give them near-photographic images of their surroundings, allowing them to spot fish easily.

9. Fishing Lures

And of course, anyone who loves fishing will appreciate extra lures!

This set contains various baits, including crankbaits, spinning lures, plastic worms, and more!

Everything is packed in a convenient double-layer box, making it a perfect gift for fly fishers who are also boaters.

10. Bimini Top Cover

Even though everyone wishes for blue skies and perfect weather every time they go sailing, nature doesn’t always comply.

Every boat owner must be prepared for any weather, which is why this bimini top cover is essential!

Made of marine-grade polyester canvas with PU coating, this bimini top can protect the deck from the scorching sun and unexpected showers alike!

11. Boat Cleaning Kit

The idea of cleaning a boat might not seem very appealing to new boat owners but it’s essential to maintain the boat’s condition. After all, no one wants to sail on a dirty, grimy boat, right?

That’s why they need this boat cleaning kit ! It contains everything they need to clean the interior and exterior of the boat, such as mesh sponges, cleaning cloths, and more!

Plus, everything can be stored in a compact storage bag, perfect for small boats with limited space.

12. Marine Tool Set

The number one rule of becoming a boater is to always be prepared. Keep your boater ready for every situation with this versatile marine toolset .

This 125-piece tool set contains everything a boater will need on a voyage, including screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, and more!

Even better, everything is water-ready! All the tools are water and rust-resistant. The carrying case can also float, so your boater can easily retrieve it if they accidentally drop it in the water.

13. 10-in-1 Boat Tool

Sometimes, a boater might prefer to pack light for short weekend trips. And that’s where this handy 10-in-1 boat tool comes in!

Instead of bringing a huge and bulky toolbox, they can just carry this gadget in their pocket.

Featuring a survival whistle, a flat top drain plug tool, a fishing line cutter, a bottle opener, and more, this gadget has everything they need!

14. Solar Power Portable Charger

Some boaters have power plugs available onboard, but some aren’t that lucky so it can be difficult for them to keep their devices powered during their voyages. That’s why they need this solar-powered portable charger !

Armed with a solar panel, it can charge itself during the day and provide plenty of juice for smart devices later on! It can be a lifesaver during emergencies!

15. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Everyone loves to relax and hear the sounds of nature cascading all around. But after a while, it can get kind of dull. Keep your boater entertained with this waterproof Bluetooth speaker !

With powerful stereo and crystal clear sound, they can enjoy their favorite jams no matter where they are.

It also has an  IPX7 waterproof design, so they don’t have to worry about water damage.

Equipped with a 1000mAh high-performance lithium battery, the speaker has a long battery life, so the party can keep going for hours on end!

16. Hand Warmers Rechargeable

The weather can be unpredictable when you’re out on the water. Sometimes, it can be scorching hot, and sometimes, it can be freezing cold.

These hand warmers will keep your boater toasty and comfy during those cold spells since they can heat up within seconds.

They also have three different heat settings so your boater can adjust the heat to their needs.

Better yet, these hand warmers also double as an emergency power bank to charge their devices!

Small yet incredibly useful, these are some of the best gifts for boaters.

17. Wacaco Minipresso

Even though there’s no premium coffee shop in the middle of the ocean, that doesn’t mean that your boater has to settle for lousy instant coffee during their trips. Not when they have a Minipresso!

This portable espresso machine can provide them with the perfect cup of joe no matter where they are! It doesn’t even require any battery or electricity!

They just need to add some ground coffee and boiling water, apply slight pressure to the gadget, et voila! They have the perfect shot of espresso to start their day!

18. Portable Outdoor Coffee Grinder

This is one of the yacht gifts for the fancy coffee connoisseur who expects nothing less than premium, freshly ground coffee!

With 50 grind settings, this portable coffee grinder will precisely prep their beans to perfection.

So, even if your boater is on a month-long journey in the Pacific, they can still have delicious freshly ground coffee on the go!

19. Portable Liquid Propane Gas Grill

Take your boater’s adventure to the next level with this portable gas grill!

Designed for on-the-go grilling, this grill is sturdy, convenient, and compact, perfect for small boats with limited space.

With this grill, your boater can have amazing BBQ parties despite being in the middle of the ocean!

20. Waterproof Cellphone Dry Bag

Everyone dreads having their phone water-damaged while sailing. That’s why every boater and their passengers need to have this waterproof cellphone pouch !

Being IPX8 certified, this pouch offers waterproof and weatherproof protection for any smart device with a size up to 7″ diagonally.

With clear windows on both sides, the recipient will still be able to use their phone and take pictures while using this pouch!

21. Heavy Duty 2 5 QT Cooler

Every boat owner needs a cooler! After all, no sailing trip is complete without some ice-cold beer!

This heavy-duty cooler can keep everything inside cold for up to four days, perfect for weekend escapades and short trips. It also comes with four tie-down points and non-slip corners to keep it secure on deck.

Psst, there’s a built-in fish ruler inside, so it’s perfect for boaters who love fishing as well!

22. Non-Tipping Can Cooler

Imagine setting your newly opened beer can on the deck only to have it tip over. Thankfully, you can give your boater this fantastic non-tipping can cooler !

Unlike regular can coolers, this one has a powerful suction cup at the bottom, so it will stay put even on a rocky boat.

With a double-wall insulation system, this can cooler will also keep their drink cool and refreshing even when it’s unbearably hot outside!

23. Rite In The Rain Weatherproof Notebook

Some boaters love to keep a log of their journeys. But a regular notebook won’t do! What they need is this weatherproof notebook !

The paper can repel water to avoid losing their logs even if the notebook gets drenched.

Plus, they don’t even need any special writing tool; a regular pen or pencil will work just fine!

24. Portable Hammock

Nothing feels better than lounging on the deck under the blue skies. Well, unless they have a hammock!

A hammock can instantly make their excursion even more enjoyable. Lightweight and easy to set up, your boater can have this hammock ready within a few minutes, so they can immediately relax and enjoy the sun!

25. Power Boating For Dummies Book

Power Boating for Dummies is a must-read book for new and experienced boat owners alike.

This educational book contains everything a boater needs to know about sailing and owning a boat.

The book will walk them through everything, from purchasing their first boat, maintaining it, handling emergencies on the water, and more!

26. The Boater’s Cookbook

Cooking on a small boat is completely different compared to cooking in a spacious kitchen on land. But that doesn’t mean that your boater has to settle for bland instant meals!

The Boater’s Cookbook contains some of the easiest, most delicious, and sailor-approved recipes to cook onboard.

With this cookbook , your boater can enjoy a full 3-course meal despite having a cramped galley.

27. Storing Food Without Refrigeration Book

Not every boat is equipped with a good refrigeration system, which can be a problem when your boater wants to go on an extended sailing trip.

But with some planning and a little help from this book , they can store various food items onboard without the use of a refrigerator.

That way, they can still whip up delicious meals without having to install a heavy fridge or freezer on their boat.

28. Kindle Paperwhite

Boaters with a penchant for reading might find themselves worrying about not bringing enough books on their month-long journey. Also, what if water splashes damage their favorite book?

Kindle Paperwhite is the perfect solution for their problem. With this Kindle , they can access thousands of amazing books just with a single touch. And since Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof, they won’t have to worry about water damage either!

Hey, if you’re feeling generous, why not include this Kindle subscription as well? That’s guaranteed to keep your boater entertained on longer trips.

29. Custom Flag

Every boat has a unique name, and it brings a sense of pride to the owner. And what better way to display it than with this custom flag ?

Available in a variety of sizes and colors, now your boater can proudly display their baby’s name wherever they go!

30. Engraved Compass

Yes, we did list a compass before, but this one is different. With an elegant vintage style, this handmade brass compass will be a lovely keepsake for your boater.

You can get their name, initials, or even a short message engraved on the back of the compass to make it even sweeter.

Creative and useful, this is one of the personalized gifts for boat owners that they’ll hold dear for years!

31. Captain Hat & First Mate

These cute sailor hats will be excellent gifts for new boat owners and their loved ones!

They’re guaranteed to feel like actual sailors with these on! Besides, the matching captain and first mate hats will make any sailing pics thousand times more adorable!

32. Anchors Personalized Whiskey Glass

This personalized whiskey glass is the ideal gift for boaters who love a touch of luxury in their lives.

This elegant, nautical-themed whiskey glass will be a wonderful addition to their minibar.

33. Nautical Personalized Pillow Cases

Cool and stylish, these embroidered cushion cases are the perfect gifts for yacht owners.

Simplistic yet charming, these cushion cases will look amazing on deck or on their living room sofa alike!

They’re the perfect gifts for sailboat owners who are also obsessed with the nautical-themed decor!

34. Sail Patent Patent Blueprint

If your boater also happens to be a boat nerd, then they’ll adore this wall art !

It depicts the patent blueprint of the Catamaran 1956, one of the most iconic boats in the modern world.

This patent blueprint will look super cool hanging on their living room or office wall!

35. Unisex Boating Shirt

If you’re still unsure of what gifts for boat lovers to buy, then this boating t-shirt will save the day.

Designed with a boat sailing on a heart bit, your boater will be happy to show off their love for sailing with this t-shirt.

Plus, it’s 100% cotton which makes it soft, breathable, and comfortable. It also comes in various colors so you can choose what they like.

36. Mariner Cheese Board

Does your boat owner love cheese? Then they’ll love this boat-themed cheese board . Unlike ordinary cheese boards, this one is made to look like a boat steering wheel!

The board also comes with pullout cheese tools that safely fit in the board including cheese knives and forks.

Every boat owner who loves cheese will be happy to receive this gift.

37. How To: Knots Coffee Mug

Mugs are usually considered boring gifts but not when they’re as cute as this one.

Besides being cute, this mug describes the different ways of knotting knots with vivid pictures printed on it.

They’ll not only be able to enjoy a good cup of coffee but they’ll also learn a great deal from this cup.

Fun yet educational, this is one of the funny boating gifts your loved one will appreciate.

38. Row Boat Serving Bowl with Wood Serving Utensils

Help them bring their favorite toy to the dining table by giving them this cute row boat serving bowl .

Designed to look like a rowboat, it also comes with serving spoons which are replicas of the real rows.

Now your favorite boat owner can sail away even in the house. And since it’s made of aluminum, it’s sturdy enough to carry even on the sea as they go on water excursions.

39. Rowboat Serving Bowl with Napkin Holder

This rowboat serving bowl with napkin holder is too cute we just couldn’t leave it out!

As the name suggests, this dish is made to look like a rowboat while the napkin holder part looks like the masts of a sailboat.

It also has various compartments so they can use it to serve various fruits or vegetables. You can be sure that it’ll be a hit among boat owners.

40. Personalized Sailing Rug

This sailing rug is one of the cool personalized boat gifts for new boat owners! The rug won’t only make a statement at the entrance of their boat but they can also use it to decorate their home.

Made of strong and durable synthetic fabric retains, this rug can withstand any weather conditions regardless of where they end up using it.

Plus, it can be customized with the boat owner’s name or any message to make it extra special.

41. Personalised Watercolour Boat Sketch

Boat owners will love nothing more than having their boat hanging in their living room or even their bedroom!

But since it’s not possible for the actual boat, you can gift them this personalized watercolor sketch of their boat and they’ll be over the moon excited.

All you have to do is to send the artist a high-quality picture of their boat and they’ll do the rest.

The piece will also be personalized by adding the name of the recipient to make it extra special.

Beautiful and thoughtful, this is a cool gift for a boater!

Final Thoughts on The Best gift ideas for boaters

That wraps it up! We hope this list has helped you find the best gifts for a boater in your life.

If you’re still unsure about what to buy, make sure to find out what the recipient needs, likes, or wants.

Don’t forget to do more research about their taste, personality, and style. Do your homework, and you should be fine on your gift hunt!

Otherwise, happy shopping, and good luck!

More gift ideas to help you choose the perfect gift for your loved one

• Fun gifts for dolphin lovers
• Best sailing gifts
• Cool beach gifts for her
• Unique gifts for bee lovers
• Cool gifts for Scuba divers
• Unique gifts for sea turtle lovers
• Best gifts for Ocean lovers
• Cool gifts for Kitesurfers
• Unique gifts for Kayakers
• Thoughtful gifts for Surfers
• Cool gifts for swimmers
• Best gifts for Outdoorsy kids
• Fun experience gifts for kids
• Cool gifts for a camper van owner
• Personalized gifts for camper owners
• Unique gifts for RV Owners
• Best gifts for Beach lovers
• Practical gifts for Outdoor Women
• Unique gifts for History buffs

Was this post of the best boat gifts ideas helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others

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Last Updated: March 20, 2024

Rokas Mickevicius

Rokas is a founder of GiftingDeer and has a bachelor's degree in Business Management. He spends a considerable amount of time every day researching gift ideas and creating guides that help people find the perfect present for their special someone.

Navigating the Waves: 36 Perfect Gifts for Boaters

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There’s something inherently majestic about the open water and the allure it holds for those who can’t resist its call. Boaters, with their salty sea-dog spirits and adventurous hearts, share a unique bond with the world’s waterways. To celebrate this aquatic love affair, we’ve curated a specialized gift guide, offering a treasure trove of thoughtful presents that are bound to buoy any boater’s spirits.

Selecting the perfect gifts for boaters requires a keen understanding of their passions, hobbies, and the challenges they face while navigating the high seas. From practical marine accessories that make their expeditions safer and more comfortable to unique, nautical-themed keepsakes that reflect their love for boating, we’ve got all the bases covered. You’ll find gift ideas for seasoned sea captains and novice sailors alike. Whether you’re looking for boater gifts to elevate their sea-faring experience or sentimental keepsakes to remind them of their maritime adventures, this guide is your first port of call.

Our approach to the gift selection process has been thorough and conscientious, to provide a range of options that cater to diverse tastes and needs. Every item has been chosen with a deep understanding of what it means to be a boater: the sense of freedom, the thrill of exploration, and the peace that comes from being at one with the water. We’ve traversed the vast seas of possibility to bring you the best gift ideas for boaters.

Best Boat Gift Ideas

1. straw hat.

For boaters seeking a blend of protection and style, consider gifting them the Straw Lifeguard Beach Hat. This well-crafted summer essential not only provides a cool shield against the blazing sun, preventing sunburns, but also carries an effortless charm that is adaptable to all outdoor escapades, whether on the open sea or rugged land. With its durability and style, it is an accessory that transitions seamlessly through all the seasons, making it a thoughtful, versatile gift for boating enthusiasts.

RELATED: Gift Ideas for Beach Lovers

2. Underwater Drone

Dive into new depths of discovery with the high-tech Underwater Drone, a stellar gift for boaters. This drone hosts a top-tier camera, offering unmatched clarity even in the deepest, darkest waters, thanks to its illuminating lights. The ability to probe and record the underwater world in all its majesty before the fleeting moments vanish forever opens an ocean of exploration and memory-making. A truly unparalleled way for boating enthusiasts to enrich their maritime journeys.

3. Zippo Hand Warmer

Say goodbye to chilly fingers with the Zippo Hand Warmer, an ideal companion for boaters braving the cooler weather. Its odourless operation and extended warmth make it a perfect fit for a range of outdoor activities, from hunting to snowmobiling, skiing, and ice fishing. Complete with a handy filling cup for fuel top-ups, this is more than just a hand warmer; it’s a cold-weather essential that ensures continuous comfort when navigating the waters, making it an excellent gift choice for any boating enthusiast.

RELATED: Top Gifts for Snowboarders to Shred in Style

4. Grill for Boat

The Cuisinart Petit Grill is a dream-come-true for boating gourmets. This compact yet mighty grill easily attaches to open square pontoons, ensuring safety from potential fire hazards or smoke. Its stainless steel mounting brackets are not only durable but also incredibly adaptable to varying boat layouts.

5. YETI Tundra 45 Cooler

For boating enthusiasts who enjoy taking their adventures to the next level, the Tundra 45 cooler is a must-have. This robust cooler, with a capacity to accommodate up to 26 cans along with just double the quantity of ice cubes, is a champion in retaining the frosty coldness. It boasts an exceptional insulation system, ensuring that the ice remains untouched by the outside temperature throughout the journey. It’s a terrific gift for those who love to relish a chilled beverage amidst the tranquil waves, enhancing their outdoor experience manifold.

6. Headlamp

Illuminate any boating adventure with the power of this LED headlamp, capable of emitting a striking 300 lumens of light. Designed with Quad power LED and Double Power white LEDs, it offers a suite of modes including full strength, dimming, and an emergency strobe. Its unique “PowerTap” feature enables an instant switch between full and dimmed light with a mere finger swipe, providing optimal light customization. Equipped with a lock mode to prevent accidental activation, it ensures safety during nocturnal activities. It’s an excellent gift for boaters enhancing visibility and safety during their maritime excursions.

7. Vacuum Mug

The YETI Rambler 14 oz Mug serves up a nautical necessity for those sea-loving souls. With its double-wall, vacuum-insulated construction, it keeps beverages perfectly chilled or steaming hot, regardless of the external temperature. Your hands remain comfortable, never affected by the temperature inside. Its broad opening permits easy access to your favorite drink, and the included lid ensures a splash-free journey.

8. LEATHERMAN

It’s equipped with the largest pliers and longest blades among multitools, boasting an impressive 21 functions right in the palm of your hand. Key features include wire cutters, file openers, saws, screwdrivers, and many more. Easy-to-use locks provide safety and convenience when you’re in action. Whether it’s challenging tasks on the boat or do-it-yourself projects at home, the Leatherman Surge is an incredibly handy companion for boaters.

9. Premium Boat Scuff Erasers

Keeping a boat pristine is made effortless with these premium eraser sponges, a phenomenal solution for swift clean-ups. These sponges are remarkably versatile, designed to be both robust and gentle, ensuring that every surface of your boat gets a meticulous clean without leaving any streaks or smudges.

10. Stanley Flask Classic Wide Mouth

For boaters who appreciate practicality and longevity, the Stanley flask is the perfect companion. Crafted to contour comfortably against the body and slip effortlessly into a pocket, it embodies convenience. Its intelligently designed cap stays secured even when tipped over, offering extra protection against moisture and dirt. Constructed from durable 18/8 BPA-Free stainless steel, it not only promises longevity without the threat of rust, but also a safer drinking experience. It’s a gift that merges style, durability, and practicality in one.

11. Anchor Cozy Hand Mug

Echoing the love for the open seas with its high-quality nautical design, it not only serves as a stylish accessory but also a functional one, boasting a generous twenty-ounce capacity. Whether enjoying a leisurely sip at the helm or savoring a hot brew on the move, this mug infuses every coffee moment with a dash of maritime charm.

12. Garmin Striker Plus

It’s more than just a fishing tool – it’s a seafarer’s guide, equipped with innovative mapping software that allows the creation of bespoke navigational maps. Its unique contours aid in charting future explorations, transforming every fishing trip into an exciting journey. Gift this to a boater in your life to elevate their on-water experiences and fishing pursuits.

13. Salt and Pepper Shaker

An excellent addition to a boater’s kitchen, these uniquely crafted salt and pepper shakers come with a touch of maritime elegance. Their resilient ceramic bodies have been hand-stripped, ensuring longevity even on the high seas. The set also features a stylish wooden stand, augmenting its distinctiveness and offering a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. It’s the perfect gift to enhance a boat lover’s culinary space and give it a dash of nautical charm.

RELATED: Captain’s Choice Must-Have Gifts for Sailors

14. Boat Trash Bag

A boon for boating enthusiasts, this mesh and nylon boat trash bag transforms on-deck cleanliness from a chore into a breeze. Boasting a robust construction, it stays secure and stable, regardless of the waves or movement. With a generous capacity, capable of accommodating over 20 cans, it ensures a tidy deck at all times. The easy-to-handle design further simplifies the cleaning process. This practical and thoughtful gift will certainly be appreciated by those who love spending time on the water.

15. Fishing Sling Pack

Encompassing the essentials, it allows more casts without bogging you down with gear. Fitting comfortably, the pack makes equipment readily available for each trip. The balance of functionality and comfort ensures it’s an ideal gift for those passionate about their time on the waters.

16. Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Amp up your marine adventures with the JBL Portable Bluetooth Speaker. This resilient speaker not only withstands water but can simultaneously connect and play from various devices. With an impressive 20-hour battery life from just one charge, the IPX7 rated speaker ensures non-stop musical entertainment, making it an ideal accompaniment on boating escapades. Enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves complemented by your favorite tunes, enhancing your boating experience manifold.

17. Morakniv Floating Fixed-Blade Knife

This unique knife features a handle designed with cork for buoyancy, ensuring it won’t sink if dropped overboard. Its high-visibility green colour ensures easy spotting in water or on land, making it an ideal companion for boating adventures. Practical, resilient, and easy to locate, this knife is the perfect gift for boaters seeking reliability and convenience in their equipment.

Transform the way you capture your boating adventures with the HERO Black, the pinnacle of action camera technology. This camera’s state-of-the-art image sensor delivers an impressive 5.3K video resolution, providing a level of detail that far surpasses 4K and 1080p. The HERO Black is the ultimate boating companion, offering limitless creative possibilities and unrivalled image clarity.

19. YETI Utility Bucket

Engineered to withstand heavy loads without showing signs of wear or breakage, this robust bucket stands head and shoulders above the rest in terms of longevity. Whether hauling fishing gear or carrying provisions on board, it delivers an impressive performance time and again, eliminating the need for future replacements. With this trusty bucket in their boating arsenal, they can focus on the adventure at hand without worrying about the reliability of their equipment.

20. Full Face Snorkel Mask

This mask’s distinct comfort-centric design facilitates a wider and clearer underwater view, enhancing the entire snorkeling experience. A thoughtful gift for boaters, this mask truly bridges the gap between adventure and safety.

21. Funny Fishing Socks

Take a humorous twist on fishing with these witty fishing socks. Designed specifically for anglers, these socks will not only keep feet cozy but also inject a bit of fun into their day, whether they’re out waiting for the next big catch or just kicking back at home. Injecting a touch of humor and comfort into the fishing sport, these socks make ideal for any boater who enjoys a good laugh while staying snug and stylish.

22. Underwater Sea Scooter

Dive into a mesmerizing underwater adventure with the CellBee sea scooter, a dream-come-true for those with a deep affection for the sea. Its chic, advanced design enables you to capture stunning underwater pictures effortlessly. Perfect for underwater explorers or water sport aficionados, this sea scooter doesn’t limit you to just underwater exploits, but also enhances the quality of photos above the sea.

23. Yacht Captain Hat

Whether it’s steering a boat trip, elevating a Halloween outfit, or simply reigning supreme at a party, this hat seamlessly integrates into various settings. It’s also an exceptional gift for that special sailor in your life, helping them command attention and respect wherever they go. Boaters, enjoy a splash of tradition in every voyage with this iconic headwear!

RELATED: Funny Gag Gifts for Every Occasion

24. Garmin inReach

For those with an adventurous spirit and a taste for the wild, the inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator is a reliable companion. Tailored for the unexpected, this device allows you to send messages from the remotest corners of the world, ensuring your loved ones are always updated about your whereabouts. Its exemplary functionality even in areas where signal coverage is scant makes it an essential tool for emergencies or distant adventures.

25. Ultra Absorbent Towel for Boat

Its exceptional absorbency effortlessly soaks up moisture, leaving your vessel spotless and free from residual water droplets. This towel outperforms ordinary towels, preventing unwanted water damage and enhancing your boat’s appeal.

26. Fishin’-Opoly

It’s a captivating board game featuring four different gameplay modes, from brisk, thrill-packed rounds to leisurely play, allowing players to set their own pace. It’s not only a fun way to pass time but also a platform to share the passion for fishing, making it an ideal family game. This engaging pastime combines the thrill of angling with the camaraderie of a board game, making it a perfect gift for boating and fishing lovers alike.

27. Sailor Ship Yacht Boat Captain Hat

This adjustable, one-size-fits-all hat is an ideal gift for boaters, seamlessly fitting adults and teens alike. Whether it’s a nautical-themed birthday bash or a vibrant bachelor/ette party, this cap adds a dash of old-world appeal to any event. Imbued with a spirit of the high seas, this hat elevates the bearer’s charm, making it the perfect accessory for every sea-lover’s wardrobe.

28. Katadyn Vario Water Filter

Katadyn Vario Water Filter serves as a trusted companion for every boater, ensuring access to clean, drinkable water. It is meticulously designed with a dual-action filtration system, utilizing a ceramic pre-filter for contaminated water and a pleated glass fiber filter for clearer water. With two modes of operation, this versatile filter offers a rapid flow mode that delivers two quarts per minute and a long-life mode producing one quart per minute.

29. Garmin Multisport Marine Smartwatch

Garmin Quatix 6 Multisport Marine Smartwatch takes navigation technology to a whole new level. Designed with a robust 1.3″ display and fortified by a stainless steel bezel, this smartwatch is more than just an accessory—it’s a navigator’s best friend. It comes with enhanced sail racing assistance, including virtual starting line and race countdown timer features, ensuring a competitive edge. In addition, pre-loaded apps offer functionalities like autopilot control, Fusion-Link, anchor fishing, and tidal data, consolidating all navigation essentials right on your wrist.

30. Rapala Touch Screen Tourney Scale

Ideal for the angler in your life, this durable, water-resistant scale from renowned brand Rapala is a trustworthy tool for any fishing expedition. Offering a backup memory and three weight display options, it provides practicality and flexibility to match any situation. Known for their reliable quality, Rapala ensures this scale will endure countless fishing trips. Its longevity and function make it an invaluable gift for avid fishermen and boaters alike.

31. Universal Boat Flag

This marine-grade, universal boat flag is an exemplary gift for boaters passionate about showcasing their patriotism. Crafted from resilient, lightweight nylon, it stands out regardless of the weather and boasts sturdy clips designed to withstand high winds, making it ideal for year-round use. Whether enduring summer tempests, winter blizzards, or hurricane-strength winds, this vibrant banner remains unyielding. A perfect representation of indomitable spirit, it adds a distinctive touch to any boating adventure.

32. Spot SOS Satellite GPS Location Tracker

The Spot Gen4 Satellite GPS Tracking System is an exceptionally compact yet powerful gadget, offering peace of mind for those who venture out on the water. This nimble device diligently sends location updates every hour, ensuring that help can locate you quickly if an incident occurs. With its discreet size, it can be placed conveniently without hindering your activities, making it an ideal gift for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts who value safety and efficiency.

33. Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Water Filter

Ideal for those always on the move, the Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Water Filter offers an effective solution for hydration needs in challenging environments. Its distinguishing trait is its capability to rapidly transform murky waters into clean, flowing streams – contributing to more pleasurable outdoor experiences. With its swift flow rate, this water filter is a remarkable gift for boaters and adventurers alike, making hydration easier and ensuring no adventure is held back due to lack of safe drinking water.

RELATED: Ultime List of Gift Ideas for Outdoors Lovers

34. Castable and Portable Fish Finder

The only of its kind, it combines three beam frequencies for precise and clear images, offering unrivaled accuracy in detecting target species and predator fish in deep water. Whether you’re casting your line from the shore or in deeper depths, this tool swiftly locates optimal fishing spots. This unique device makes an exceptional gift for any angler, enhancing their fishing strategy and boosting their chances of a successful catch.

35. Jetboil Zip Camping Stove

Compact yet mighty, the Jetboil Zip Camping Stove is an invaluable companion for the outdoors. Engineered with innovative FluxRing technology, it boils water in a little over two minutes while consuming significantly less fuel than conventional stoves. Its one-of-a-kind design includes an insulating cozy, preserving your meal’s temperature until it’s time to dine. Moreover, it thoughtfully incorporates a dual-purpose side that functions as a measuring cup and a bowl, making packing light a breeze.

RELATED: Best Unique Camping Gift Ideas

36. Stanley Classic Vacuum Bottle

Stanley Legendary Vacuum Insulated Bottle ensures your beverages maintain their desired temperatures throughout the day. Whether it’s for your favorite brew, soup, or any hot concoction, this trusty companion is built to endure a lifetime. Ideal for fishing trips, late-night shifts, or extended road adventures, it’s the ultimate gift for boaters that adds a touch of warmth and comfort to their journeys.

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24 Unique Gifts for Boat Owners

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Looking for unique gifts for boat owners in your life?

What do you get the person who already has it all?

Ok…Ok…

We get it…so maybe they don’t have it all…

But chances are that if you are searching for gifts for boat owners, they’ve probably marked off a lot of things on their list!

The last thing you want to do is get them something else that will fall between the cracks, especially if you know that their boat and the time they spend on the water is truly important to them.

In order to help you with your search, we’ve compiled a list of 24 unique gifts for boat owners in your life.

This handpicked list of great gift ideas is perfect for that special nautical person on your birthday or holiday shopping list.

From fun boat accessories and gifts for fishermen to custom boat shirts , the following list of items is a perfect place for you to begin your search for the perfect gift for a life lived on the water.

Set of High-Performance Dock Lines

First up on our list of great gifts for boat owners are these high performance dock lines.

These navy blue nylon dock lines are a set of 3/8″ x 15′ double braided four boat ropes and storage bag, perfect for your special boater.

Designed in New Zealand by a team with over 60 years of boating experience, this set of performance boat rope stands up to the test of the highly corrosive marine environment protecting against the sun, oil, mold, and rot.

Each rope features a 12-inch eyelet on one end of the braided 24-strand nylon rope . The additional braided strands help to create a more durable rope than competitors while being less likely to snag.

This particular set is recommended for boats up to 27′ in length, making them ideal for the amateur boater.

Cobra Handheld Floating VHF Radio

Who backs up your favorite anglers when they head offshore for that hot bite?

With the best marine VHF radio , boaters can cast away from the dock in confidence knowing that they have a reliable, waterproof communication device ready on-demand, no matter how big your boat may be.

The Cobra handheld includes a number of safety features , including scan mode for finding live channels, and instant access to Channel 16 for emergency situations.

The floating design makes it easy to retrieve if dropped, and the distinctive white and orange colorings make it easy to see in the water.

Featuring 1, 3, or 6 watts for both short and long-range communication, the Cobra MRHH350W comes complete with everything you need, including chargers, a spring-loaded belt clip, and wrist wrap.

Stellar gifts for boat owners who could use a little peace of mind on the water.

Hooway Marine Binoculars

Does your gift recipient have a reliable solution for distance spotting while underway?

The Hooway Marine Binoculars are perfect for marine applications with 7x magnifications and a 500mm objective lens .

These durable binoculars easily adapt to challenging marine conditions featuring an illuminated compass and internal manual range finder.

The waterproof non-slip rubber armor absorbs shock and provides the user with a firm grip to help control and focus the enhancements to your long-distance vision.

If you know that your special someone doesn’t have a reliable pair, these may be the perfect gift for the boat owners in your life.

Shatterproof Plastic Nautical Wine Glasses

Who wants to worry about dropping a real wine glass when you’re out on the ocean?

With these glass-looking, plastic shatterproof glasses , all of the Captain’s guests can enjoy their cocktail on the bridge without any concerns over broken glass.

Best of all, they are dishwasher safe and each glass comes with a different nautical theme, perfect for any galley, big or small!

Hoyle Waterproof Playing Cards

Is your special boater always up for a game?

While a hand of Texas Holdem could be the perfect complement to a day on the water, soggy cards are no fun for anyone!

With these waterproof playing cards , you can keep the party going offshore or at the dock without wrecking your cards in the harsher marine environment.

These playing cards feature a transparent design on standard playing card sizes that help you play anywhere!

The Boat Loop

Let’s face it…

Docking isn’t always the simplest part of a boater’s day!

Things can become increasingly challenging if you are alone onboard, or working with a skeleton crew.

That’s when having a little bit of help can come in handy.

The Boat Loop is an expandable fiberglass pole that features unique tools to assist on the water.

Featuring large and small boat hooks , a quick lock and release mechanism, and a removable flexible loop, the Boat Loop gives anglers of any experience level an extra hand on the water.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Picture this…you’re headed out for a day on the water, but you need to keep a few critical things dry and safe.

Instead of bulky and hard waterproof boxes, wouldn’t it be easier to throw a soft bag over your shoulder on your way to the dock?

With waterproof bags for boating like this Earth Pak Waterproof dry bag , boaters can keep valuables and electronics safe and dry in a lightweight and compact package.

Best of all, the Earth Pak also features a 6.5-inch waterproof phone case that is perfect for smartphones on the water.

Don’t risk your gear when you head out on the water. Protect it with a dry bag!

JBL Charge 4 – Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

What’s better than cruising on your local oceans and waterways with the radio turned up loud and a fresh cocktail in your hand?

With the JBL Charge 4 Waterproof speaker, you’re halfway to your ideal day on the water with a durable solution to blast your tunes!

This powerful little speaker features Wireless Bluetooth streaming so that you can play your music right from your smart device and allows for 20 hours of playtime.

Available in a rainbow of color options , this rugged little device will be the powerhouse for memorable music in the air as you enjoy your boat day to the fullest.

Makes great gifts for boat owners and crew alike!

Boat Scuff Erasers

If you’ve been around boats, you know that the harsh marine environment can do a number on your marine surfaces.

It doesn’t matter if you baby your precious boat, it is bound to get some scuffs in the use of normal wear and tear.

When you need a solution to get your boat looking shiny again, why use harsh chemicals that can harm your boat’s longevity, or worse the fragile marine environment?

That’s where Better Boat boat erasers come in…

These boat eraser sponges quickly and effectively remove dirt, grease, and grime from your vessel all without the use of harsh and corrosive chemicals.

This premium boat care product removes marks and scuffs from a variety of materials including vinyl, fiberglass, plastic, wood & glass.

Perfect gifts for boat owners who like to run a tight ship!

Deckmate 6-in-1 Boating Tool

When you’re on the water, having a handy tool nearby can help solve a lot of issues.

Whether you need to crack open a fresh cold beer or the cap to your fuel tanks, a multi-tool can save you time and headache on your day on the water.

The Ironwood Pacific DeckMate comes with a variety of features created with the boat owner in mind.

Some of these features include 2 deck keys, a shackle key, a screwdriver, a hex tool, and a comfortable and durable rubberized handle.

Best of all, this stainless steel tool features a lifetime warranty to ensure that you can enjoy it for years on the water.

Knot Tying Kit

There’s no getting around the necessity of knot knowledge if you’re a boat owner.

Knowing what knot to tie in high-demand marine situations can be a literal life, or boat, saver.

What better way to learn to tie the knots used in marine applications than a handy walkthrough guide that features the most important marine knots?

This handy knot tying kit comes complete with knot flashcards with detailed walkthroughs, as well as two ropes and a carabiner to practice and follow through with your knot tying knowledge.

This awesome little kit is easy to follow and the waterproof design makes it a perfect solution for any boat owner.

GoPro HERO9 Black

A boat owner’s time on the water is all about the quality time and memories made while aboard.

What better way to help capture all those treasured memories on the boat than a high-resolution, waterproof solution for photos and videos?

With the GoPro HERO9, boat owners can boating families can enjoy the capture of these treasured moments in stunning 5k video and 20MP photos.

Featuring a rugged and waterproof design, this powerful little camera is the perfect solution for boat owners and families who want a versatile solution for capturing all the fun on the water.

One of the most advanced personal cameras on the market, the GoPro HERO9 features time warp, slo-mo and hyper-smooth settings, as well as intuitive controls on both the front and back of the camera.

Swimline Inflatable Floating Dock

Ready to make your sandbar trips even more relaxing?

The Swimline Inflatable Floating Dock is a great gift for boat owners who love to anchor up to enjoy the day but could use a little extra space for friends and family.

This durable inflatable dock gives boat owners tons of extra space and is a stable and easily maneuverable solution to provide your guests with extra space to lay out and play on the water.

With its portable and compact design, this floating dock ties up behind your boat and connects with other models to give your guests extra space to maximize family time on the water!

Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board

What better way to enjoy time on the boat than a stand-up paddleboard for guests to jump on and cruise around when you are anchored up?

The SereneLife Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board features a special wide design for better balance. Measuring 10′ 6″ long with a 32″ width, this soft, stable, and anti-slip board is perfect for beginners to stand-up paddleboarding.

This kit includes an inflatable board, paddle, safety leash, repair kit, and air pump…everything you need to get off the boat and into the water in comfort and with stability.

Expand your water experience with a paddle-board that fits the average boater’s space constraints.

Portable Solar Power Bank Panel

What’s more inconvenient than being on the water and having your phone battery die on you?

For many boat owners, handheld electronics are the lifeline necessary in times when they are offshore.

With this portable solar power bank, boat owners can easily charge devices with two separate USB ports.

This cool little tool also features dual bright flash lights that can serve as a bright service light when needed on board.

Morakniv Floating Fixed-Blade Stainless Steel Knife

A durable knife is a must-have tool for any boat owner. Unfortunately, anything that you take on the boat is at risk of ending up in the drink!

That’s where the Morakniv Floating Knife comes in handy.

This serrated stainless steel knife is a fixed blade knife that floats thanks to the cork handle and lightweight design.

Perfect for cutting, this orange color knife is highly visible in marine environments, making it the perfect tool for any competent Captain!

Makes great gifts for boat owners, family members, and boat crew alike!

Grundéns Weather Watch Hooded Fishing Jacket

Is your boat captain into a little more extreme boating?

Why let them get wet and cold when they head out in rough weather?

The Grundéns Weather Watch Hooded Fishing Jacket is the perfect lightweight solution to keep them dry and comfortable while on the boat in rain and storms.

This marine jacket features a comfortable hood and waterproof, breathable material that keeps boat captains and anglers with a smile on their faces in rough conditions.

Victoper Rechargeable Headlamp, 8 LED 18,000 High Lumen

Having a bright light on board a boat can be a lifesaver. Especially in low-light and dark conditions outside or inside the boat.

With the Victoper Rechargeable headlamp, boat owners have a powerful tool to assist with vision enhancement in even extreme conditions.

Whether an owner is navigating at night or simply searching through cabins for a specific piece of gear, this headlamp is a perfect hand-free lighting solution.

NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves

Whether a boat owner is cleaning fish from a fresh catch or cutting ropes or fishing line from a day on the water, cutting with a knife is standard practice on board any boat.

Instead of risking precious digits to sharp knives, the NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves provide extra added protection for a variety of nautical purposes.

Featuring a design that is 4x stronger than leather, these durable gloves are 100% food safe and machine washable, providing a simple solution to protect from unintended cuts and knicks for boat owners and guests alike.

Surviveware Waterproof Premium First Aid Kit – Large Kit – 200 Piece

Want to get your favorite boater something a little more practical?

How about a boat first aid kit ?

This 100% waterproof boat first aid kit features an IPX7 waterproof rating and is built to provide comprehensive first-aid solutions for boaters.

The kit features over 200 first-aid supplies that are designed to be easy to use for boaters in a complete and durable package.

Some of the great features of this first aid kit include:

• Neatly labeled compartments for easy access to find what you need in times of emergency on board your vessel.
• 100% waterproof material and watertight zippers
• Only 2.25 pounds for easy on-the-go functionality
• Designed by adventurers for adventurers 

Truly great gifts for boat owners to help provide peace of mind on board their vessels.

Star Brite Premium Outdoor Teak Cleaner

Does your special someone have a boat that features teak?

How about a quality teak cleaner ?

The   Star Brite Teak Cleaner   provides a safe and effective solution to help clean and restore the charm of weathered and grey teak onboard marine vessels.

Safe to use on all teak surfaces , this teak cleaner provides a user-friendly solution for boaters who are in need of an effective teak restoration solution.

Serving as the first step in any teak restoration process, this teak cleaner provides multi-purpose functionality for boaters whether in use on teak decks, teak furniture, or other teak accents on board.

From popular marine brand Star Brite , this teak cleaner simplifies the teak restoration process, making it a great gift option for boaters with weathered teak.

Dock Edge + Mooring Whip – 12-Feet with Lines and Hardware

Does your favorite boater have a hard time keeping their boat off the dock?

Mooring whips are a great gift for boat owners in need of a little more protection from the elements when not on the water.

Used in combination with traditional dock lines, mooring whip systems keep boats suspended away from docks and pilings , which helps to protect them from normal wear and tear.

This premium mooring whip (set of 2) comes in a variety of sizes and classes from Dock Edge that allows you to easily target the unique requirements of your boat and dock setup.

Manufactured with strong reinforced cross-wound fiberglass , these whips provide durable, flexible support for your vessel at the dock to help minimize wear and tear.

Another great gift for boat owners looking for added support in the docking of their treasured vessel.

Mission Boat Gear Sentry Boat Bumper

While we’re on the topic of docking, our next gift for boaters takes advantage of one of the best boat fenders available for boaters.

The Mission Sentry Boat Fender is a completely new design to upgrade traditional boat fenders.

Featuring an innovative hanging system that provides easy and flexible placement and positioning for maximum protection of your boat , this boat bumper hugs the contours of your boat’s hull.

Manufactured with cross-linked closed-cell foam that is extremely durable, this powerful boat fender stands up against the harsh elements found in boating environments.

Best of all, an integrated strap easily attaches to your boat’s cleats to make the setup of the fender a breeze.

Great gifts for boat owners that provides a serious upgrade from traditional boat fenders.

Custom Yacht Shirts & Gear

Last up on our list is our own solution for boat owners here at Custom Yacht Shirts .

For the boater who is proud of their sea-going vessel, custom boat gear is the perfect solution to show off their pride and joy anywhere.

At Custom Yacht Shirts , we either work with your existing yacht art, or use a photo of a yacht to create vector boat drawings that are perfect for use on a variety of customized gear.

We feature t-shirts, long sleeves, hoodies, tank tops, pop sockets, phone cases, and much more that make the perfect custom gift for any boat owner.

Best of all, once the art preparation process is complete, all of your custom boat gear is available for on-demand ordering on private Amazon.com product pages.

Order 1-1000 of your custom products easily and simply with your existing Amazon account featuring free returns and free shipping with a Prime account.

The perfect gifts for boat owners!

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10 Best Boating Gifts for Her

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Do you have a woman boater in your life and are wondering what would make the perfect present? There are many affordable options whether you’re looking for a birthday, a new boat-warming present, or a Mother’s Day boating gift.

Remember, she’s not a woman boater, she’s a boater, and they all love and need loads of gear for their hobby (for additional ideas, be sure to read 10 Must-Have Boat Accessories for 2022 ).

To help you narrow down your selection, here’s 10 top boating gifts for her:

1. Sailing gloves

If the woman in your life is a diehard sailor, she’ll appreciate a pair of gloves to protect her hands from chafing lines. Sailing gloves are sized for men and women and can be full-coverage, fingerless or somewhere in between.

Popular brands include Gill , Harken , Ronstan , Mustang and others. These sticky gloves will help her handle lines and the padding will save her skin.

Even better than sailing gloves, why not take it a step further and take her out on a sailboat rental?

Explore sailboats for rent all across the globe.

Keeping gear dry is always a challenge on a boat whether it’s a yacht or a dinghy, but drybags do the trick for all sorts of gear.

Choose one for a cellphone and keys or for something bigger for a laptop and clothing. There are even models that have straps and can be worn as a backpack so you can even get her a set to cover all the bases.

3. Stemless wine glasses

After a hard day of boating, it’s time to relax with a glass of wine. Stemless wine glasses do better on boats due to their lower center of gravity and they can be made of glass, polycarbonate, stainless steel or a rubberized ceramic. Some have integrated grips while others have a sippy-cup topper to minimize spills even if a wake jostles the cockpit .

You can go generic or check out brands like Yeti and Strahl for upmarket choices.

4. Cheese and charcuterie platter sets

No happy hour is complete without snacks. Give her a way to present cheese and snacks with a serving platter and utensils in one.

Generally made from wood or bamboo, options from Royal Craft come with indentations for nuts and fruit as well as drawers for serving knives, so everything’s at hand.

5. Personalized boat gifts

You really can’t go wrong with gifts that speak specifically to her. Most items can be monogrammed or can highlight the name of her boat.

Through embroidery, printing and etching, you can add a boat name or nautical design to towels, pillows, T-shirts, hats, totes, key chains, welcome mats, wine glasses and more. Many marine retailers specialize in these items or browse Amazon for ideas.

6. Nautical jewelry

A bit of bling can be the thing for a boater who loves emphasizing her passion with her fashion. Opt for compass rose stud earrings, a mermaid bracelet charm, or an anchor necklace pendant.

There are many designs to choose from on the general market or go with a marine-specific provider like Nautical Gold Jewelry for Turk’s head rings and chains.

7. Multitool or sailing knife

Boats have gremlins, so you never know when you’ll need a knife or screwdriver for a quick fix. Sailing knives are small and light and have extra features like a marlinspike and a bottle opener.

Look for brands from CrewSaver , Gill or NRS to name a few. For a more comprehensive tool that includes blades, screwdrivers and pliers, find a multitool like a Leatherman . Most knives and multitools come with a sheath and can be worn on a belt so they’re always handy.

8. Headlamp

Whether boating at night or needing to peek into a dark locker, boaters need light and preferably the kind that keeps both hands free. An LED headlamp can be a lifesaver and some come with white and red lights so your boater can preserve her night vision.

Look for lumen (brightness) ratings and IPxx (waterproof) designations. Mantus , Pelican , Petzl and Black Diamond offer many high-quality lights at various price points.

9. Rash guard

Although clothing is hard to buy for any woman, a rash guard is a fairly simple choice that will protect her from the sun when she’s kayaking or provide a bit of warmth when she’s snorkeling. Dive and surf shops often sell rash guards under brands like Body Glove , Roxy , Volcom and ScubaPro .

Rash guards can be short- or long-sleeved, tight- or loose-fitting, and stylish or plain so pick one based on what you know about your boater.

10. A day on the water!

If you’re completely at a loss, go big and give the gift of an experience and make a memory— book a boat rental and enjoy quality time together out on the water.

Let her choose her own adventure, whether that’s relaxing on a sailboat, zipping across the lake on a personal watercraft (PWC) , fishing for her trophy catch, or riding a wave behind a wake surf boat . The options are endless, and you can find the perfect boat rental to build the perfect day for her.

Remember, boating gifts for her open up a whole new adventure in gift giving because your mom, sister, daughter or friend has a passion, so you’ll have great options for years to come.

Own a Boat? Earn an Average of $20K or More by Listing Your Boat

Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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