Picking a gift for those close to you is always a challenge. Even the knowledge that they are really into boating doesn’t help that much. There are so many things that you could buy as a gift, so no wonder why people are getting confused.
To make your search a little bit easier, let us present you with 37 gift ideas for boaters, one of which may well be the perfect gift for your loved one!
Table of Contents
37 Must-Have Gifts for Boaters
1. Emergency Survival Kit
It’s not very likely that you will be caught out in a natural disaster when boating. But even if there is 0.0001% possibility of one occurring, you will need to think of ways to safeguard yourself.
A key item in a boater’s arsenal would be a survival kit. You could easily make one yourself, but there are ready-made kits available out there. And if your friend or relative has been wanting one for quite some time, have a look at this survival kit.
This emergency survival kit includes a 3-day supply of food and water for 2 individuals. Namely, it comes with 2/2400-calorie food packs and 12/4.227-ounce water packs. Aside from that, it includes emergency items like a compass, fire starter, waterproof matches, and more. All this is packed in a water-resistant backpack made of 600D polyester fabric.
2. ACR Buoyant Personal Locator Beacon
A personal locator beacon is another must-have for emergencies. This buoyant little guy has an inbuilt GPS module which, when engaged, sends the boater’s location to Search & Rescue services. As ACR writes, the use of this device requires no subscriptions.
ACR warns several times on the product page that this beacon should only be used in situations of imminent danger to life and that misuse may result in a penalty. This is a thing that the recipient of the gift will have to keep in mind as well.
3. EPIC-id 10-4001BLK USB Emergency ID Band
This USB emergency ID band is also designed for emergencies, but it is a little bit different from the locator beacon.
The purpose of this device is to store important medical information about the wearer for rescuers in an emergency. Say that the wearer is a type 2 diabetic – he or she could input their personal medical history into this ID band to win some time for the rescuers.
This device is also made water- and salt-proof, which is why it can be safely used by boaters.
4. Uniden MHS75 2-Way VHF Marine Radio
Whether boating recreationally or professionally, one would absolutely need to have communication means while away from the shore. However, a recreational boater would benefit more from a basic marine radio like the Uniden MHS75 rather than from a pricey unit filled with various functions.
The MHS75 marine radio doesn’t have features like inbuilt GPS which are common in more expensive models, but it does have everything you’d need for marine use. Most importantly, it is submersible at 5 feet up to 30 minutes. Not only that, but it also has 5 watts of power, dual scan, weather alert, as well as full channel coverage throughout the US and Canada.
5. JAMES Pocket Knife
In certain boating applications, a pocket knife is a must-have. Aside from that, it can be an insanely helpful tool in emergencies. If the recipient doesn’t have a pocket knife yet, make sure to gift them one.
Our suggestion would be this pocket knife by JAMES. Certainly not a cheap gift, this pocket knife is an excellent companion to have while boating. Compact and durable, this stainless steel knife can literally be a lifesaver in an emergency. Its ambidextrous design makes it convenient, as well as allows use in extreme situations where the mobility of one arm is limited.
6. NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves
Aside from emergencies, pocket knives may be used by boaters in a variety of applications. And if you know that your friend often has to use their pocket knife while on the water, consider gifting them these cut-resistant gloves. The use of these gloves actually extends well beyond boating, so the recipient could find make it work for them at home as well.
7. SKYDEX Sea Shocks Helm Mat
Standing isn’t the most pleasant thing in the world, but you can’t do otherwise behind the helm. And if your friend has been complaining about feet pain from the journeys lately, these Sea Shocks helm mat by Skydex may be an excellent gift for them.
With its thick layer of cushioning against the pounding of waves, the Sea Shocks mat delivers anti-fatigue performance for longer voyages where you need to stand behind the helm for a long time. Not only that, but this mat can be used in any other application where prolonged standing is necessary.
Weighing 10 pounds, this mat can be just placed down without complex installation – it will stay in its place firmly. And when done, the core could be easily removed for cleanup.
8. Lifejacket Storage Bag
When boating, you do need to wear a lifejacket at all times. But what do you do with it once you get back home? Well, those who don’t have any dedicated storage space for lifejackets would probably benefit from a lifejacket bag like this one.
This lifejacket storage bag is designed specifically to hold 4 adult type II personal flotation devices, so it’s a great lifejacket storage space for families. If necessary, one could also fit other types of lifejackets in this thing, but obviously fewer of them.
9. Gecko Paracord Survival Bracelet
This paracord survival bracelet is a small yet very nice gift for any boater. This bracelet is designed to be disassembled and be used in a variety of emergency situations. The 7-strand paracord neatly weaved into a bracelet strap is rated for up to 350-pound loads, so don’t be deceived by the toy-like appearance of this bracelet.
Even though one shouldn’t solely rely on this bracelet’s paracord for emergency needs, it serves as a nice spare rope in a compact package. On the other hand, when you do unwind this thing, you would then need to weave it back together.
10. Fortress FX-7 Anchor
The FX-7 anchor by Fortress has been highly praised by its buyers. Around half the weight of traditional steel anchors, it tends to outperform them all. This thing is made from a high-tech aluminum alloy that is pretty much as strong as steel but much lighter.
Aside from sheer strength, the FX-7 anchor seems to penetrate deeper into common sea bottoms as well. What is also great about the Fortress anchor is that it can be disassembled for storage. So if the gift recipient has been looking for an anchor lately, consider gifting them the Fortress FX-7 anchor.
11. PulseTech SP-5 SolarPulse 5W Battery Charger
Solar energy has been rapidly gaining popularity in recent years, finding its place in enterprises, homes, RVs, and even boats. After all, it is an environment-friendly and very efficient method of energy production.
The SolarPurse SP-5 solar charger by PulseTech is specifically designed to power vehicle and boat batteries. This piece of equipment can come in handy with equipment stored outside for a long time, as well as in prevention of battery loss. If the gift recipient often struggles with jump starts – be it in their boat or car – this could be a very useful gift for them.
12. Upow Portable Solar Charger
Yet another solar charger, but this one is more aimed at charging mobile devices. The Upow portable solar charger is equipped with two 5V 2.1A USB ports, which is the current that the charging ports of mobile devices are working with.
Aside from charging USB devices directly, this portable solar charger can be used as a power bank since it has an inbuilt 5000mAh lithium polymer battery. What’s also important in this solar charger is that it is weatherproof, so it could be safely used when boating.
13. Pelican 2720 LED Headlight
Being an insanely convenient and useful tool, a headlight isn’t a thing that will be required by everyone. However, it can make a big difference when working in low-light conditions.
The Pelican 2720 LED headlight, most importantly, allows for hands-free operation for the wearer. This can be especially helpful when doing jobs where both hands are needed. The Pelican headlight further improves its comfort with the gesture activation function. Aside from that, this headlamp has variable light output, as well as dual red LED lights for night vision.
If you have a friend or relative who stays on the water until late evening, a headlight may be an excellent gift for them.
14. Rapala Fish N Fillet Knife
If your friend or loved one is an angler, then this fish fillet knife may be the perfect gift for them. Made from Swedish stainless steel, this knife perfectly does what it is made for. Rapala also ships it along with a genuine leather sheath and a single-stage knife sharpener for added safety and convenience.
While this knife works great for its main task, we also think that it could serve decorative purposes. The genuine leather sheath and the knife itself are exceptionally well-made and look fabulous, so this thing has the potential to become a centerpiece anywhere.
15. YETI Hopper TWO Portable Cooler
If carrying drinks when boating, one would need to have a place for them so that they stay nice and cool. The Hoper TWO portable cooler by YETI is a good companion to have on a boating trip for this purpose.
The key feature of this portable cooler is its leak- and waterproofness. As YETI claims, this cooler features a HydroLok Zipper which borrows the design of zippers in HazMat suits. Thus, one may be sure that the Hopper TWO portable cooler is spill-proof, as well as that it efficiently locks in cold.
16. Boston Warehouse Life Preserver Wine Bottle Cover
This Life Preserver wine bottle cover doesn’t possess the practicality of the YETI Hopper cooler, but it nonetheless is a great gift option for your loved ones. Shaped like a lifejacket, this wine bottle cover is as nautical-themed as it can get. And while it won’t cool your wine bottle, it will make it a cute eye catcher.
17. Kuuma Premium Stainless Steel Mountable Charcoal Grill
If your friend likes to cook on the go, then consider gifting them a portable grill like Kuuma’s stainless steel grill. Weighing just around 16 pounds, this grill offers 160 square inches of cooking surface, which is a very respectable amount.
Made from stainless steel, the Kuuma grill is not only durable but also good-looking. Just have a look at its polished glassy surface! While appearance plays zero role in grills, this grill will not only be a tool to cook food with but also a centerpiece on the boat.
18. Fred Deep Tea Diver Silicone Tea Infuser
This exceptionally cute tea infuser is a brilliant gift idea for tea lovers. The Deep Tea Diver tea infuser works just like any infuser, but its clever design does put a smile on your face.
In a tea infuser, materials are obviously very important. The Deep Tea Diver tea infuser is made from food-safe, BPA-free, and tasteless silicone that won’t impart any weird aromas or flavors to the tea.
Another thing that the gift recipient may like is that this tea infuser is reusable. This design, unlike regular dunk-brew-toss tea bags, is very environmentally-friendly, which is becoming a more and more valued property in today’s world.
19. Zodiac Men’s ZO9250 Heritage Automatic Stainless Steel Watch
Zodiac has been dedicated to craftsmanship and precision associated with Swiss timekeeping since 1882. A product of this dedication is the Zodiac Men’s ZO9250 Heritage watch, which is an excellent gift for serious water sports or professional marine activity.
The Zodiac watch has remarkable water resistance, being able to withstand water at up to 200-meter depths. Aside from that, it features a durable build with its stainless steel case and bracelet.
Being an analog watch, this watch offers only basic timekeeping, unlike digital watches. On the other hand, one could say that this watch arguably is not about its functionality but about luxury. After all, this watch costs over $1,000, so it isn’t a cheap gift. But what it offers in terms of build and design is unparalleled by many watches available out there.
20. Odowalker Marine Compass
A compass is a must-have for any boater. And while modern smartphones have compass functionality, you’d want to have something more durable and trouble-free onboard.
This marine compass by Odowalker is a simplistic yet functional compass for not so much money. Aside from performing its main function, the Odowalker compass has a couple of features to make boaters’ trips more convenient.
Adjustable declination allows you to change the position of the compass when mounted. There thus should be no problem with the visibility of the compass from anywhere in the boat. Aside from that, to ensure visibility at night, this compass has an incandescent light that can be engaged in low light conditions for increased readability without any flashlights.
21. Revtronic LED Flashlight
Speaking of flashlights, it is another highly useful item to have on a boat trip. You may not be planning to stay on the water until late evening, but a flashlight could truly come in handy if an emergency forces you to do so.
Revtronic offers a nice and inexpensive LED flashlight. Its 900 lumens of illumination, 5 modes, and four beam width options would allow for flexible operation in the boat. In addition, the Revtronic flashlight has IP65 protection, so it will be protected from accidental water splashes.
22. DuffelSak Waterproof Duffel Bag
Another must-have for any boater is a waterproof duffel bag. Most people bring along water-sensitive items to the trip, and proper storage for them for the duration of the voyage becomes a concern.
A duffel bag like the one by DuffelSak could well ensure the safety of sensitive items. Most importantly, this duffel bag features a waterproof design to protect one’s belongings.
Aside from that, to ensure convenience and organization, the DuffelSak bag features 2 external splash-proof pockets, as well as 2 internal zippered pockets. And for a little more versatility, 40- and 60-liter variants are available for purchase.
23. Phantom Aquatics Premium Waterproof Backpack Dry Bag
A dry bag backpack is a good alternative or maybe even a good addition to a duffel bag.
The Phantom Aquatics backpack has a roll-up 100% design. Not only that, but it can also float in water, protecting the contents from dust, dirt, sand, and, of course, water.
For increased comfort, Phantom Aquatics equipped their backpack with an adjustable sternum strap and waist belt. Plus, it has a back panel with good airflow to keep the back cool on warmer days.
24. Infusion Living Collapsible Bucket
A bucket is a very necessary item for boating, but the not so good thing about it is that it occupies a lot of space. The Collapsible Bucket by Infusion Living is designed to address this problem.
This bucket folds down to less than 2 inches for increased convenience in storage. Aside from that, it has 4 different height positions, allowing the boater to hold up to 2 gallons of water. And for increased durability, this bucket is made from silicone complemented with a stainless steel handle.
25. LEATHERMAN Tread Bracelet
This treaded bracelet by LEATHERMAN is an exceptionally interesting product and a great gift. The thing is that this isn’t merely a bracelet – it actually is a wearable multi-tool!
The Tread bracelet has a modular design that accepts modules for box wrenches, flat & Philips screwdrivers, hex drives, a bottle opener, and many other items. The modules can be removed or swapped out in order to change the size and functionality of the bracelet.
The LEATHERMAN Tread bracelet obviously won’t replace a full toolset, one reason being the limited leverage its modules provide. For tough tasks, specialized tools will undeniably be better. On the other hand, the Tread bracelet has the edge when it comes to the cool factor, as well as compactness.
26. Wine Glass Nautical-Themed Kit
If you have a portable cooler to keep the drinks in, then you also need to have a couple of glasses to partake the drink from, don’t you? Well, this set of six 14-ounce wine glasses makes for a great addition to the portable cooler above. But it will work as an excellent standalone gift as well!
Each of the wine glasses in this set has a unique nautical design – anchor, mermaid, direction symbol, power boat, sailboat, and lighthouse. Aside from that, the glasses are made from plastic that is imparted a glass feel and looks. While the choice of plastic may seem weird to you, we think that it is much more suitable for boating needs than glass since it has no risk of shattering.
27. Docktail Boat Bar
Why not further complement the boat with a boat bar? Sure, one may put the beverage bottles anywhere on the boat, but a specialized boat bar is going to do the job safer and more conveniently.
The most remarkable feature of the Docktail Boat Bar is that it can be mounted in most standard-sized rod holders. Other mounting options are also available for boats with no rod holders. No matter the mount, the Boat Bar can be leveled flat at a variety of angles.
28. YETI Rambler Vacuum Insulated Mug
Having wine glasses is sure nice, but one thing that simple wine glasses are unable to do is to maintain the temperature of beverages in them. This is the task the YETI Rambler vacuum-insulated mug has been designed for. Whether on hot or cold days, this thing can keep the drink at the desired temperature.
The Rambler mug is made from stainless steel, so it is a rather durable guy. Furthermore, the stainless steel is complemented by double-wall vacuum insulation, which is the component that maintains the drink’s temperature.
The Rambler mug also has the so-called TripleGrip Handle that is designed to be comfortable for gloved hands. Plus, its no-sweat design keeps fingers away from frost or dampness.
Arguably not the most beautiful mug in the world, the Rambler is available in several colors. In addition, there are multiple size options to choose from offered by YETI.
29. Umbra Hammered Head Bottle Opener
One may have a boat bar and a cooler onboard, but how does one open a bottle of beer without a bottle opener? Sure, you can improvise on site, but wouldn’t it be better to have a dedicated tool for this?
The Hammered Head Bottle Opener by Umbra is a nice and maybe even a cute gift for the avid boater. Made from easy-to-clean chrome-plated zinc, this bottle opener sure does look nice. But what matters more in it is, of course, functionality. And it is great in this bottle opener since it is a two-in-one tool – a bottle opener as well as a corkscrew!
30. Ultimate Boaters Docking Kit
Docking lines are key in boating as well. If your friend or relative has been looking for a replacement for their boat’s old docking lines, maybe this pack is going to be a perfect gift for them.
The items included in the Ultimate Boaters Docking Kit are two 36-inch long bungee dock ties with a nylon cover, one 15 feet anchor bungee line, and one 15 feet boat line bungee rope that stretches to 25 feet. Not a cheap product, the Ultimate Boaters Docking Kit is a very nice piece of equipment indeed.
31. NUU Wake Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
When away from the shore, music may be the one thing that your close one is lacking to fully enjoy the scenic view. If this is the case, then a waterproof speaker like the NUU Wake may be an excellent gift for them.
IP57-rated, this speaker is not only waterproof but also sandproof at up to 1-meter depths. In addition, it is encased in protective rubber for increased protection against shocks and impact.
In terms of sound quality, this speaker is very decent. It has two 25W speaker drivers, which makes for quite a good volume. In addition, the Wake speaker is equipped with DSP and a passive bass radiator for improved bass performance.
Quite a remarkable thing about this speaker is that it can float in water, but it probably won’t be the best idea to listen to music in water since you won’t get the best sound out of the speaker!
32. Gifts & Décor Schooner Bookend
If you’ve made quite a few practical gifts in the past and would like to get something different, have a look at this nautical theme bookend. While this item is marketed as a bookend, it is more of an eye candy than a practical item. However, made of wood and cotton, this schooner bookend does have the character to catch the eye with.
33. Bronze Metal Colored Mermaid Knick-Knack Box
Crafted of cold cast resin and painted for a faux bronze finish, this knick-knack box is a beautiful item to delight upon. Albeit inexpensive, this mermaid box is brilliantly detailed, starting from the sea creatures on the sides of the box and ending with the mermaid on top.
34. Nautical Collectible Retro Style Compass
This retro-style compass is a smaller gift than a schooner bookend, but it still is an enjoyable piece. With its intentionally rough brass body and glass dial cover, this compass has a strong vintage vibe to it.
This compass is as functional as the Odowalker compass we presented above, but it’s arguably less practical today because it doesn’t have adjustable mounts and dial illumination. Still, fully functional, this compass could be used for its main purpose no problem.
35. Nikon Monarch 3 10×42 Binoculars
Binoculars aren’t going to be necessary for every boater, but some boaters do need to be able to see into the distance. And the Nikon Monarch 3 10×42 binocular is one excellent option for marine use.
The Monarch 3 has the key feature necessary for boating – a waterproof body. Of course, one shouldn’t allow this thing to stay in the water for too long, but it can take the beating. Not only that, but the Monarch 3 binoculars are fog-proof.
Visibility is also crucial in binoculars, and Monarch is great here as well. With its fully multi-coated lenses, these binoculars deliver a crisp and bright image with very little glare.
There are many other things to be said about these binoculars, but what we described above should be enough to give one idea of why the Monarch 3 binoculars are great for boating.
36. Roxant Monocular
Binoculars are sure handy when boating, but not everyone likes their bulkiness and heaviness. A monocular like this one offered by Roxant is a nice alternative to binoculars, as well as for full-size telescopes.
To ensure comfort while holding, this monocular is equipped with a non-slip molded grip. Aside from comfort, this monocular delivers great visibility thanks to its multi-coated BaK4 Prism lens that are designed to cut down glare.
37. Rite in the Rain Weatherproof Notebook
In today’s age of technology, it is quite unlikely that boaters will be taking notes in a paper notebook. However, physical notebooks still remain a viable tool in a boater’s arsenal since they aren’t susceptible to the downsides of smartphones and tablets. They don’t need battery charge, can be used anywhere, and, in the case of Rite in the Rain’s notebook, are weatherproof.
The most notable feature of this notebook is obviously its weather resistance. Both its 50 sheets of paper and the cover are resistant to water. This notebook is also going to be perfectly complemented with an all-weather pen, though it will work with standard ballpoint pens as well when the paper is dry.
Another interesting feature in this notebook is its reinforced wire-O binding. It is designed to maintain its shape in the pocket or backpack, so if you know that your friend likes to stuff all their items in their backpack, the reinforced binding will really come in handy.
