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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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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

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Do you operate a yacht? Our app is perfect for you

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

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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10 Best Gifts for a Boat Owner

Table of Contents

There’s always something new and cool that can be a great gift for a boat owner . This is true no matter the type of boat—you can find gifts for cruising boat owners, gifts for pontoon boat owners, gifts for fishing boat owners and more.

Here’s a look at some of the best gift ideas for a boat owner, broken down by the type of boat the person has.

• Marine grills and accessories
• Boat shoes and apparel
• Waterski gloves
• Fishing boots and waterproof footwear
• Lures, rods, and reels
• Novelty fishing items
• Sailing gloves
• Waterproof, durable jackets and apparel

Own a Boat? Learn How to Offset the Cost of Ownership by Listing on Boatsetter

Gifts for pontoon boat owners

Pontoon boat owners generally do their boating on a lake or reservoir, with a healthy dash of socializing among friends and family. These tend to be the kinds of boats where folks are barbecuing, snacking or just hanging out and sharing cold beverages.

• That’s why gifts like coolers tend to be popular with the pontoon-boat crowd. Yeti is a well-known brand with a variety of options, and Engel makes an array of coolers in various styles and sizes. RTIC’s coolers also tend to get high marks among people who actually use them out in the elements.
• If you’re shopping for the right gift for a pontoon boat owner with an onboard barbecue grill , then you can’t go wrong with grill accessories . BBQ Guys has all kinds of options, including racks, roasters, brushes, thermometers and more. Crate and Barrel is another good place to look, especially for more specialized items such as a fry pan that can be used outdoors, higher-end utensils, and gadgets like a rechargeable USB grill lighter.

Gifts for cruising powerboat owners

Boaters who own cruising powerboats tend to spend at least a couple hours of day underway, and sometimes more. The best gifts for boat owners with cruising boats are often related to comfort—especially if they can help minimize the fatigue that comes with a boat’s vibration and noise while the engines are running.

• The Sperry Sport line of shoes is made with extra cushioning and protection in all the right places for boaters who are out cruising and trying not to do things like stub a toe on a cleat while prepping to pull into port .
• Another great gift idea for boaters who do a lot of cruising is gear from the Bitter End Yacht Club . It is a longtime favorite haunt of boaters in the Virgin Islands, and it has been rebuilding ever since Hurricane Irma tore through the islands. The Bitter End Provisions shop, as it’s called, is a way to find fun gifts for boaters and to help rebuild a world-class boating destination.

Gifts for wakesports boat owners

• Dry bags are always a great gift for boaters who are into wakesports, because by definition, doing wakesports means you’ll have people getting in and out of the water and then dripping all over the boat. Dry bags help to keep everything from cash to important paperwork dry, and are a terrific place to store things like sunglasses while the rider is in the water. Mustang Survival makes good dry bags, as does Gill .
• Another great gift idea for boaters who love wakesports is waterski gloves . They can be used for wakeboarding and other tow sports too, and they come in a variety of styles, sizes and colors. Check out the offerings at O’Brien and HO Sports .
• Also be sure to check out the 7 Best Towable Tubes for Adults.

Gifts for fishing boat owners

• Pelagic makes a line of footwear specifically for folks who like to go fishing. Its products include boots in various heights as well as sandals in all kinds of styles, for men, women and children alike. Grundens is also a good place to look for fishing boots in multiple options.
• Depending on the type of fishing your friend likes to do, he or she may appreciate some new lures . Rapala offers a wide selection, and Game On has a variety too.
• And, if you’re looking for more of a novelty-type gift for a boat owner who likes to fish, head over to the Guy Harvey website. His illustrations of fish are legendary, and you can buy all kinds of gifts that feature them, including yoga mats , dog collars and phone cases .

Gifts for sailboat owners

• One of the top things that sailors care about is keeping their hands free from line burns and cuts. That’s why a great gift idea for boat owners who sail is a pair of gloves made specifically for the marine environment. Harken makes a variety of gloves specifically styled for sailors. Henri Lloyd makes Pro Grip gloves for boaters, and Mustang Survival has a selection too.
• For serious sailors, companies like Gill and Helly Hansen make, well, serious jackets that will keep boaters warm and dry even if they get caught in a nasty storm. Look for terms like “offshore” and “ocean” if you’re looking for serious sailing gear, as well as features like “quick drying” and “sealable pockets” that sailors tend to love.

Looking for other gift ideas? Be sure to read:

• Black Friday Gift Guide for Boaters
• 10 Best Gift Ideas for Anglers for 2022
• 10 Best Boating Gifts for Dad
• 10 Best Boating Gifts for Her

Boatsetter is a unique boat-sharing platform that gives everyone — whether you own a boat or you’re just renting — the chance to experience life on the water. You can  list a boat ,  book a boat , or  make money as a captain .

Let your boat pay for itself. List, rent, earn — Only at Boatsetter.

Kim Kavin has been on boats in more than 50 countries and islands, including in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, South Pacific, Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia. She grew up learning to steer a ski boat and Hobie Holder at her grandfather’s lake house in New Jersey, and went on to spend time aboard everything from America’s Cup racing sailboats to submarines. 

Kim is a PADI-certified scuba diver and animal lover who always enjoys a good, long look around a coral reef. Her award-winning writing and editing regularly appears in national marine magazines and on leading websites. In her early years, she was a Dow Jones editing intern and a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism. When she’s not writing, Kim can usually be found hiking northwest New Jersey’s beautiful park trails with her adopted shelter mutt, Ginger.

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101 Gift Ideas for Boaters and Loopers 2024

Post Summary: Best Gift ideas For Boaters Under $25, Under $50, Under $100, luxury, budget-friendly, and more!

We lived onboard our boat for almost 3 years and these items were either critical to our enjoyment, or ones we wanted!

This gift ideas for boaters guide features the  101 best gifts for boat lovers . This list has been organized by price range, ranging from less than $25 to over $1000, boater gifts for any budget including free gift ideas, and boating gift ideas for her.

Whether you’re looking for a  holiday or birthday gift , this gift guide for boat lovers will help you find the best boat gifts for that special someone!

Note: We use affiliate links which provide us a little kickback each time you use one of our links and make a purchase, without any additional cost to you. We do not recommend products that we don’t already love or have heard great things about, so you can trust we’re only suggesting great products to you .

Table of Contents

Best Gifts for Boaters – 2023 Edition

This guide contains  101   gift ideas for boaters this holiday season! This list is focused on boaters, full-time cruisers, or loopers. This list is meant for people who travel and live on their boat, whether it’s for a weekend trip or indefinitely.

Our Favorite Gift-Giving Tips

Before we get into the actual gifts in this guide, here are a few things we like to keep in mind when we shop for presents. We’re huge believers in using what we already have, so being mindful about what we’re purchasing is important to us. We thought we’d pass along a few tips to keep in mind in case they’re helpful to you:

1. Give the gift of an experience or time.  Everyone has someone in their life who has everything they need or want. Gifting them an experience is a great way to gift them something meaningful. We’re true believers that experiences are greater than things, so whether it’s tickets to a show, a fun day trip on a boat, or giving your time to wash their boat.

2. Lean towards practical gifts.  Think about things that they will  actually  use instead of stuff that’s just going to collect dust. Sometimes this means they’re not the cutest items, but they’ll surely get much use! Add on something small like some locally brewed beer to make it just a little more fun!

3. Shop local or small when possible.  We love supporting products made in the US and have included a few in this guide. We also included several products on Etsy to support small artists.

4. Look into the companies you’re supporting.  When we purchase things, it’s like “voting” with our money. This helps keep businesses alive and thriving, so when possible, choose to support companies that are doing good things like giving back and operating ethically. We know it’s not always possible to vet every single company you purchase from (and we’re guilty of buying things without doing any research quite often). But we’ve tried our best to include some companies on this list that are doing some pretty cool things like Patagonia , Stream2Sea , and Waterlust !

5. Try Thrift Shops. We love perusing thrift shops before making purchases. We often look at our local thrift store for trendy items that no longer interest people, cooking gadgets, clothes, games, and so much more. In this list, we’ve included a few companies that sell used gear like Patagonia’s Worn Wear .

6. DIY it!  We’re huge fans of DIY gifts. Save money by making some gifts yourself.

7. Skip traditional wrapping.  Traditional bags and paper are pretty darn wasteful and they can be expensive. Why not try using recycled wrapping paper or buy a handful of reusable tote bags for your gift-giving this year? You can use ribbon to tie the handles together for a festive touch!

Gift Ideas for Boaters Under $25

Polarized sunglasses.

We have these polarized sunglasses and love them! Goodr sunglasses are known for being affordable, durable, and lightweight. They come in a variety of colors and styles. Goodr polarized sunglasses are great gifts for boaters no matter the season. The best part is they have a one-year warranty. This i s the style Elliot has and this is the style Jen has . We have loved our Goodr glasses!

Floating Eyewear Holder

Nothing is worse than seeing your sunglasses fall into the deep blue abyss. That’s why we included this item top of the list for gift ideas for boaters. These sunglass holders are made out of cork and can be customized with a boat name , monograms, or an image. They’re a great personalized gift for the boater in your life and make awesome stocking stuffers!

Neck Gaiter

This neck gaiter makes the perfect gift ideas for boaters who are sensitive to sun exposure and needs full coverage when he or she is out on the water. They are worn over the neck, ears, and lower face to give you full UV coverage . Neck Gaiters are great for boaters traveling to the Florida Keys or Bahamas.

Every boater needs a dry bag! They’re perfect for transporting goods from the boat to shore and much more. These Remote Designs bags are lightweight and compact making it an essential dry bag for all your travel plans. They are designed to last through even the toughest conditions . Remote Designs is a small family business and the founder, Gatewood, inspires us through his beautiful kayak camping videos .

Flexible Shatterproof Wine Glasses

One of the most enjoyable experiences on a boat is sundowners: watching the sunset while enjoying your beverage of choice. Some boaters prefer to use traditional glass, but they’re always susceptible to breaking. These wine glasses are flexible and shatterproof making them perfect for sundowners or docktails without compromising the look and feel of traditional wine glasses. These make for the perfect gift ideas for boaters in your life!

A Thermacell is a great gift for boaters who like to enjoy being outside on the decks of their boat during dawn and dusk but are constantly annoyed by bugs. This is the perfect gift for them to use in their cockpit, at their bow, or at docktails to get rid of pesky mosquitos or no-see-ums. They’ll be forever known as the Thermacell hero at cocktails. Make sure to also grab Thermacell refills !

A bug zapper is a must for any boater who lives full-time on their boat. There’s nothing worse than a fly or mosquito buzzing around in a tiny home, especially when you’re trying to sleep. We constantly used our bug zapper along the eastern ICW during our Great Loop.

Stainless Steel Wine Glasses

An alternative to the wine glasses mentioned above, these cups can be used for wine, cocktails, juice, and frozen drinks. This stainless steel set is a low-cost option to the Hydroflask or Yeti similar cups, and another great gift ideas for boaters!

Solar Cockpit Light

The Luci Outdoor 2.0: Solar Inflatable Lantern uses LED lights to last up to 24 hours. It’s collapsable down to one inch, making it easy to store on a boat. It has a fixed top strap, making it easily hung from a bimini above. It’s waterproof up to IPl67. They can be easily charged completely through the solar panel in 7 hours. There are no batteries, which makes it great for energy consumption on a boat . It’s the perfect boat gift for anyone who loves to sit outside on their decks when the sun goes down and needs a little light.

Subscription to Cruising World Magazine

A subscription to Cruising World Magazine is a great option for gift ideas for boaters in your life who need some boating inspiration. The magazine shares sailboat reviews, stories about near and far destinations, and sailboat maintenance. It’s a great gift for the sailor in your life.

Great Loop Ceramic Ornament

This ornament is a perfect gift for any looper in your life who recently completed the Great Loop. They can hang this ceramic ornament to remember all of the great memories they had while on the Great Loop. It’s a small gift that will spur positive experiences aboard their boat.

Boating Cookbooks Under $25

This is the perfect gift for the boat lover in your life who also loves to cook in their galley.

The Boat Cookbook: Real Food for Hungry Sailors

On the Boat and on the Road – Plant-Based Recipes from the Galley

Great Loop Tri-Burgee/Logo Coffee Mug

A Great Loop coffee mug is a great gift for the looper in your life who loves waking up on the water with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s a small gift to remind them of countless memories.

Stream-2-Sea Toiletries

This is a super practical gift ideas for boaters , full-time cruiser, or looper who is mindful about protecting the ocean. Stream-2-Sea is a small business, woman-owned/veteran-operated, made in the USA , and a percentage of ALL purchases support ocean conservation organizations. Their entire product line is eco-friendly, biodegradable, and safe for sun & body care. We love their shampoo and body wash!

Boating Books to Inspire

If the boater in your life loves to see the places a boat can take you, these books fit the bill. These books are the perfect gift ideas for boaters to inspire wanderlust .

Lonely Planet Amazing Boat Journeys

Fifty Places to Sail Before You Die

Sorry for What I Said When We Were Trying to Dock The Boat Pillows

This is a more comical gift. All boaters know the stress of trying to dock a boat when a gust of wind or strong current makes the already difficult job just a little bit harder. This pillow makes light of the challenging task of docking the boat.

Great Loop Books

Here are some great books for your boater with dreams of completing the Great Loop one day! These books range from inspiration from individual stories to guide books that could help turn the boat lover in your life’s dream into reality. We also have our favorite Boating and Great Loop books available on Bookshop.org for those who are interested in supporting independent booksellers. Bookshop.org is a climate-neutral company, who are committed to operating sustainably with the majority of its profits going to support local independent booksellers . It makes these gift ideas for boaters that much better when you are supporting local shops!

100 Great Stops on America’s Great Loop

Reflections on America’s Great Loop

Honey, Let’s Get a Boat…

The Great Loop Experience

Currently Away

We wrote the foreword for it!

Crossing the Wake

Cressi Neoprene Mask Strap Cover

This is the perfect gift ideas for boaters or loopers who love to snorkel or does a lot of work on their boat including scrubbing the bottom of their boat. This mask strap cover increases comfort by not pulling or tangling hair. It’s a great idea for boaters who plan to get in the water and snorkel!

Hydro Flask Cooler Cup

This cooler cup transforms from a water cup to a wine glass to a coffee mug to a beer koozie (it holds both bottles and cans! It’s perfect for the boat in your life to bring to docktails or enjoy as their main cup on the boat. You can add this cup to a cooler with their favorite 6-pack beverage and it’ll be a complete gift!

A perfect gift for any boaters planning on taking their boat through locks. We carried this exact knife as we went through locks as it’s a piece of necessary safety equipment. It’s a small gift that is practical and useful for boaters and loopers alike.

Floating Keychain

If the boater in your life doesn’t have a floating keychain, then be their lifesaver and get them a floating keychain. It’s a simple gift ideas for boaters that goes a long way to prevent hassle when a key goes overboard and into the deep blue. Theres nothing worse than losing your keys in the water and this simple accessory makes sure that doesn’t happen.

Classic Card Games

Games can be a great addition to any boat. They’re the perfect gift for boaters to break out during sundowners, docktails, or to have on rainy days on anchor . Here are some classic card games perfect for the boater in your life:

Waterproof UNO

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza

Ocean-Themed Board Games

We love playing games aboard our boat and often played Catan’s Seafarer’s Expansion (already having the original game ) with our friends aboard SV Acadia. Games are the perfect gift ideas for boaters to break out during sundowners, docktails, or to have on rainy days on anchor . Here are some ocean-themed board games for the boater in your life:

Settlers of Catan Seafarers Edition

Ocean-Opoly

Coffee from around the Great Loop

Its no surprise that we love coffee and have tried several coffee shops along the Great Loop! If your boat lover also loves a good cup of coffee, getting them some freshly roasted beans from some of our favorite coffee shops along the Great Loop would be perfect for the boater who has everything he or she already wants and needs. They can wake up to a delicious cup of coffee on anchor. These also make for a great stocking stuffer!

Perc Coffee in Savannah, GA

Our personal favorite is the Ethiopian blend! Make sure to use our discount code SCHOANDJO at checkout.

Uncommon Coffee Roasters in Saugatuck, MI

Bitty and Beau’s Coffee in Charleston, SC

Easily one of our most memorable coffee shops along the Great Loop for the cause they support!

Hudson Roastery in Hudson, NY

Great Loop Route Map

This is a great gift ideas for the boaters in your life who are dreaming of doing the loop in the future. The map comes in two sizes, poster and mini. We posted the mini Great Loop Map on the wall in our boat and constantly referenced it throughout our travels. This makes a great gift for the boater who’s currently doing the Great Loop or is dreaming about it in the future.

Sleep Eye Mask

We each had a “non-negotiable” item when it came to boat life and this was Elliot’s. He values good quality sleep and gets that with this sleep mask. It helps to prevent the sun from coming in early on summer days so he can still get his 8 hours of sleep. It’s the perfect gift for any sensitive sleeper who needs some good sleep. This sleep mask keeps our captain happy!

Flexible Mini Phone Tripod

The adjustable octopus-style legs help to capture clean shots from any angle. The ball head and no-slip feet make positioning or mounting it on various places like the bimini, handholds, or helm station easy even as a boat is moving. It’s a great gift for the boater who wants to record some of their adventures from their phone.

Handheld Milk Frother

One of Elliot’s favorite things to do on the boat was to wake up on anchor and enjoy a cup of coffee from the bow or flybridge. This milk frother is a great gift for the boat lover who also loves their coffee shop beverages . This handheld milk frother would make a great cappuccino, frappe, matcha, or hot chocolate. It’s small and doesn’t take up a lot of space and is energy efficient as it’s battery operated, making it a great gift ideas for boaters. This Zulay milk frother has a lifetime guarantee .

Personalized Leather Journal

Spending time out on the water can ignite people’s creativity . If the boat lover in your life also loves journaling or sketching, this personalized leather journal is a great gift idea for them to record their memories.

Boat Gift Ideas Under $50

Digital handheld anemometer.

A digital anemometer is a tool I wish we had while cruising the Great Loop. During a windy storm, we would listen on the VHF radio to the sailboats calling out top wind speed. This would be a great tool for the boater in your life who’s weather-conscious and loves to put a number to the wind strength. This digital handheld anemometer measures the wind speed (5 units: m/s, km/h, ft/min, knots, mph), temperature, and wind chill.

Custom Hydro Flask Travel Tumbler

Most people have a reusable water bottle, but in case your boat lover doesn’t, this water bottle keeps your water extra cold with its double-layer insulation. These Hydro Flask Travel Tumblers can be customized based on color selection and engraved with your boat’s name or the name of your boat crew making it the perfect gift for boaters. They’re extra large, which means you don’t have to refill them as often when you’re at the helm.

The Boat Galley Cookbook

The Boat Galley Cookbook is known as the Holy Grail amongst boat cookbooks . Written by Carolyn Shearlock and Jan Irons, two well-cruised women who combined their knowledge, experience, and tried and true methods for cooking, storing, and galley tips into this cookbook. The Boat Galley cookbook is the perfect gift for boaters who love to cook! If you’re interested in supporting local, independent booksellers, make sure to check out booksh op.org !

Great Loop Map T-Shirt

A Great Loop T-shirt is a great gift for the boater who wants to represent the Great Loop around town . The shirt might just even start up some conversations which could lead them to reminiscing about their incredible journey.

Sandcloud Beach Towels

These Sandcloud towels are easily our favorite beach towels aboard our boat, PIVOT. They’re a premium, sand-resistant, ultra-absorbent Turkish cotton towel. Sandcloud gives ten percent of profits go to marine conservation !

Custom Welcome Mat for Boats

Oftentimes we were welcomed onto other looper boats. As we got onto their boat, they had mats to help keep their boat clean. This custom welcome mat would be a great gift for the boater in your life who’s adamant about keeping their boat neat and tidy.

Apple Air Tag

A great gift for boaters to attach to their dinghy, dog, or keys so they don’t lose these items again! We attached one to our keys after misplacing them and having to open our door lock with a saw. We recommend also getting an Apple Air Tag keychain or stick-on mount . It takes the guesswork out of “Where is my ( insert lost item here ).”

Hemlock Hats and Visors

A great gift for boaters or loopers who plan to cruise to the Florida Keys or Bahamas! The straw is a staple to the island time cruiser and nothing says I love you more than sun safety! The boater in your life can look like a laid-back local with a Hemlock Hat. They also have straw visors for the women boaters who prefer to wear a hat with a ponytail.

Stainless Steel French Press

We’re coffee lovers. Maybe even a little obsessed as we had 3 different ways to make coffee aboard our boat including this French Press which was our most used option for morning coffees. It makes about 2-3 cups of coffee. A stainless steel French Press won’t break like a glass coffee maker might and is the perfect gift for the boater who loves their morning cup of joe.

Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Tumbler

A stainless steel tumbler is a great compliment to any of the methods or accessories to make coffee for the boat lover in your life. This tumbler will keep their coffee hot for hours at the flybridge or helm station . Each time they enjoy a sip of coffee from this mug, they’ll thank you for keeping their coffee hot. Hydro Flask is a great brand that works to recycle its products through its unique recycling program , unlike its competitors.

Aeropress Original Coffee Press

We have this Aeropress aboard our boat and Elliot uses it for his afternoon cup of coffee. It’s a great way to quickly make one cup of coffee, with very little mess. Aeropress is compact, and versatile, has a one-year warranty, and is made in the USA . We love our Aeropress and know the boat lover in your life will also like it!

Scuba Snorkeling Dive Mask

A scuba mask and snorkel is a great gift for any boater who plans to visit Florida or the Bahamas and get in the water. This is the same mask that Elliot has and he loves it! It’s a good quality mask that doesn’t break the budget. When taken care of properly (rinsed with fresh water and kept out of extended UV exposure), it should last for years to come.

Solo Stove Campfire

We attended a beach campfire with other loopers who had this solo stove campfire and loved it! It makes a great fire pit without a lot of mess and residue. The best part was it’s designed to have less smoke than a traditional campfire , making our clothes smell less like a campfire which is a great benefit since laundry is a hot commodity. It’s not powered by liquid or gas fuel, making it a lot more eco-friendly as it uses sticks, leaves, twigs, etc.

Wool socks are crucial for boaters who travel in the cooler months or loopers as it’s more often cooler than warmer. Wool socks are naturally sweat-wicking to keep your feet warm which helps to keep your entire body warm. We wore wool socks for two full months going south on the Midwest rivers. They’re a practical gift for boaters that also make great stocking stuffers!

Docktails are part of the Great Loop culture. This handcrafted wine bag made from recycled sail cloth in Maine would be a great gift for the boater who loves to entertain and is constantly hosting sundowners aboard their boat. Add their favorite bottle of wine, and it’s a complete gift!

Boater Gift Ideas Under $100

The looper’s companion guide.

The Looper’s Companion Guide is a mile-by-mile guidebook to the 6,000-mile boating journey called the Great Loop. Its detailed guide is followed by many loopers as they constantly cruise through new waters. This book would be a great gift for the boater who has dreams and aspirations of completing the Great Loop .

6-Month Audible Subscription

One thing boaters have a lot of is time at the helm. During our Great Loop, we loved listening to Audiobooks while we cruised. Sometimes they were about the places we cruised through that elevated our experience as we learned while we cruised. Giving the gift of an audible subscription to the boater in your life is truly a wonderful gift!

We constantly use our headlights! Elliot uses it daily to go into our engine room. These Mantus Headlights are waterproof (up to 30 feet), USB Rechargeable, and feature a RED light for night cruising. Headlights are a practical gift that the boater in your life will thank you for!

America’s Great Loop Cruisers Association Yearly Membership

It’s the perfect gift for any boater who has a dream of doing the Great Loop one day. The AGLCA is the place for all Great Loop news, resources, and information. Membership gives access to a private forum, webinars, discounts for fuel, dockage, rental cars, and more, member-only events, and access to Harbor Hosts. It’s a great gift for both boaters and loopers. We’ve met several boaters who are AGLCA members who cruise up and down the east coast, but don’t have interest in completing the whole Great Loop but still find the membership to be valuable.

The Omnia Oven is a great galley tool for the boaters in your life who don’t have an oven aboard. This is a practical gift for the boater who loves to bake!

UV Long Sleeve Shirt

If theres one piece of clothing we’re always in on the boat, it’s these UV shirts! These Colombia UV long-sleeve shirts are lightweight and vented in the back for airflow making them cool. The Omni-Shade material blocks UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage. We’ve loved these shirts thoroughly and wouldn’t do boat life without them .

Tilley Broad Brimmed Hat

The Tilley hat is a classic hat with UPF 50+ rated sun protection . The boater lover in your life can enjoy this super durable, moisture-wicking hat while they’re out and about on their boat. Nothing says I care about you more than sun protection.

Eno Hammock

We took our Eno Hammocks with us on our Great Loop and used them to read in. They made a great spot to hang out in and enjoy the breeze. They can be hung on the boat or trees when you go to shore, making them a versatile boat accessory for the boat lover in your life.

Customized Boat Burgee

A customized boat burgee is a great gift for the boater lover in your life who loves seeing his or her boat name on things. The boat burgee would make a great gift for the boater who loves customized boat accessories .

WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker

This espresso maker is a bit of a luxury item for your boater who loves their coffee and espresso . This portable espresso maker is a travel-sized expresso maker that uses manual pressure to extract espresso from finely ground coffee beans. It doesn’t use any electricity, making it energy efficient for that boater lover in your life.

Fleece Pullover

Cruising down the Midwest rivers, we constantly layered up to stay warm. Jen frequently wore the Patagonia Synchilla Snap-T Fleece Pullover and later bought the Patagonia Bettersweater Quarter Zip . Although our favorite sweater is from Patagonia, the LL Bean sweaters are a great budget-friendly option and can also be custom embroidered with a boat name or logo! We love to look at Patagonia’s Worn Wear for used items which are a budget-friendly and sustainable option to buying new.

These slippers were the number one thing on Jen’s Christmas list after spending a very chilly two months heading south in 2021. Now she wears them all the time. Slippers make a great gift for the boater in your life who cruises in cooler months. Keeping the feet warm is one crucial way to stay warm on a boat.

Rumpl Sherpa Fleece Blanket

Their fleece blankets use 100% post-consumer recycled materials. Each fleece blanket recycles 45 water bottles originally destined for the landfill. They’re a great budget-friendly option to the Original Puffy Rumpl Blanket. They’re anti-static and anti-microbial, making them a great addition to a boat.

Boater Gift Ideas Under $200

Rumpl original puffy blanket.

These blankets would be perfect for snuggling up on the flybridge or bow of the boat during sundowners. Often throughout the Great Loop, it was cooler rather than warmer, so having a blanket to stay warm would be perfect. These blankets are water resistant, are made out of durable materials including duck down insulation, and are 100% post-consumer recycled polyester shell and insulation. These blankets have a 100-day guarantee, so if your boat lover doesn’t love these blankets you can always send them back.

Nebo is a must for any boater! We used Nebo daily throughout our loop. Nebo gives you detailed captain logs and the nebo link automates voyage logging when you turn on and off your boat. We’re able to track other boaters and loopers. It’s one piece of equipment we wouldn’t boat without! Make sure to use our code schojo23 for 5% off your Nebolink !

Patagonia Rain Jacket

If 2021 was the year of the slippers, then 2022 was the year of the rain jackets . We gifted each other these rain jackets when we were going down the Midwest rivers and they were clutch! Our old rain jackets were falling apart after 10+ years of wear and tear, so we upgraded to these Patagonia rain jackets and love them! We love Patagonia and all the good they do, so we’re happy to support a company that has such a positive impact . We love to look at Patagonia’s Worn Wear for used items which are a budget-friendly and sustainable option to buying new. If the boater in your life is a serious cold-weather boater, consider getting them a Helly Hansen Sailing Jacket . Developed with input from coastal sailing professionals, it’s fully waterproof, windproof, and breathable to keep you dry on deck.

Marine Binoculars

Binoculars are essential on a boat. From seeing upcoming day markers to wildlife , they help extend your visual distance dramatically. These waterproof marine binoculars include a rangefinder and a compass. We were gifted a pair of marine binoculars and loved them!

Soft Cooler Insulated Bag

The Rtic cooler is a floating cooler , so it can go anywhere you go! It’s perfect for summer days of floating in the water, bringing drinks for sundowners on friend’s boats, and Looper docktails. It’s practical and versatile , which is essential to every item brought onto a boat.

Magma Nesting Cookware

This Magma Nesting Cookware is a great option for boaters who plan to cook a lot in a tiny galley. Their compact design makes them ideal for compact galleys who need multifunction kitchen tools. Their thoughtful design makes them a no-brainer when it comes to tiny galleys. These Magma Nesting Cookware come in stainless steel or non-stick ceramic .

CLIQ Portable Chair

These lightweight folding chairs are great for taking to shore for campfires, on the dock for docktails, or carrying them to the beach for a day at the beach. We like how lightweight and compact these chairs are, making them easy to carry in our backpacks when we take them to shore.

Sea Bag Tote Bags

From beach bags to totes, these bags are made in Maine out of recycled sails. What a great way to up-cycle old sails! Sea Bags would make the perfect gift for a boater regardless if they’re a weekend boater or a full-time cruiser. Their bag designs are timeless, stylish, and durable.

Magma Outdoor Grill

Grilling aboard our boat while we’re at anchor has to be one of our favorite parts of boat life . Being able to cook outdoors while also having the comforts of home is unmatched. We constantly used our Magma grill during the summer months in Canada and winter months in Florida. It was especially a crowd-pleaser that set the mood and made trips extra special for our guests aboard. This Magma outdoor grill would make a great gift for the boater in your life who also loves to grill.

Paperwhite Kindle E-Reader

We each have a Kindle aboard and it is easily one of our favorite items . We are constantly downloading and reading books. The Kindle makes it easy to read in the sun with bright sunlight or in the dark while in bed . It’s waterproof and a must for any boater, looper, or traveler.

Mantus Dinghy Navigation Light

The Mantus Dinghy Navigation Light is a must for boaters who use their dinghy often. Their dinghy light is solar and USB chargeable and it’s easily attached to a dinghy, small boat, or outboard engine. We genuinely love all Mantus products, making us confident the boater in your life would also love their products.

Sport-a-Seat

Sport-a-Seat is a chair, cushion, and recliner in one. These versatile chairs can be used as a seat on a dinghy, kayak, outdoor venues, lawn seating, or at the beach . This portable chair uses marine-grade Sunbrella fabric which is meant for harsh UV exposure and has a five-year limited warranty. It’s a great gift for any boater or looper!

Collapsable Dock Wagon

This folding dock wagon is a must for any boater or looper, regardless of whether they visit marinas or anchor out a lot. This dock wagon can be used at marinas to transport laundry, groceries, and so much more from marina offices to a boat. It can also be used by boaters who anchor out as a way of transporting groceries from the store to their dinghy. It’s collapsable, so it can easily fit into the nooks and crannies of a boat. This practical gift would please any boater.

Waterproof Phone and Table Case

Whether it’s for a phone or a table, these cases make a great gift! They’re waterproof up to IP68 and use drysuit zippers to ensure water stays out. The cases have been designed to float if they go overboard and are designed to be used inside the case perfect for the dinghy! We use our phones for navigation during dinghy adventures, and this makes great insurance in case our phones go overboard.

Waterproof, Bluetooth Speaker

It’s no surprise that we love to listen to audiobooks and music while we cruise. Our waterproof and Bluetooth speaker allows us to do so regardless of whether we’re on the flybridge, at the interior helm station, or jamming out in the galley while cooking. We use our speaker daily!

Gift Ideas for Boaters Under $500

Berkey water filter.

We invested in our travel-sized Berkey Water Filter before leaving the dock for our Great Loop and it was easily one of the best purchases we made . The best part is that it doesn’t require power and the filters can be cleaned (unlike many filters out there) which reduces plastic pollution. The washable filters mean we’re not constantly buying replacement filters; instead, we maintain the filters by washing them once every month or two. Jen loves our Berkey Water filter because it makes the various tap water we drink have a consistent taste. Gifting a Berkey Water Filter to a boater would show your love and care for their health.

Dinghy Anchor

A dinghy anchor is a great gift for boaters who frequently take their dinghy to shore. This item might be on their wishlist as it’s not required for daily life aboard making it a great gift! We love our Mantus Anchor and wouldn’t buy any other anchor . It’s perfect for any boater who’s planning on visiting the beaches in Florida or the Bahamas.

Stand Up Paddleboard

We loved our SUPs! We used them throughout our summer in Canada and our winter in the Florida Keys. Stand-up paddleboards make a great water toy to keep on board as they deflate and can be stored away when we’re not using them. We were skeptical about how sturdy they would be but were pleasantly surprised by how sturdy they did feel. We would have loved to receive this as a gift!

GoPro Action Camera

A GoPro Action Camera is a great gift for boaters who want to share their adventures with friends and family back home . It’s small, durable, and waterproof making it a great option for boaters who can be rough on their gear. If the boater in your life wants to explore underwater, make sure to also get the floating handle so it’s not lost to the deep blue.

Portable Mini Projector

A mini projector is a great gift ideas for boaters who love to watch movies. We’ve seen several boaters have this mini projector and a screen (or white sheet) and make their salon into a movie theatre. It gets rid of a TV on board which can take up a lot of space and power compared to this mini projector. It can also be carried to shore or a dock for an outdoor movie night with other boaters. This brand is a more high-end projector if your budget allows it.

Gift Ideas for Boaters Under for the Big Spenders

Canon r mirrorless camera with 24-105mm lens.

A Canon Mirrorless Camera is a great gift for boaters who are looking to photograph their travels or loopers who want to document their Great Loop journey. The Canon R Mirrorless Camera is the same series as our cameras that we’ve used and have truly loved filming over 300 Great Loop videos and countless photos. The color quality and durability of Canon cameras are unmatched by its competitors in our opinion.

DJI Mini 3 Drone

This is the perfect gift for boaters who are interested in getting some great shots of their boat and the scenery they visit. A drone is a great way for boaters to document their once-in-a-lifetime Great Loop journey. We have the DJI Mini 2 (to use in Canada) and the DJI Air2S and love them both. We highly recommend getting the DJI Mini 3 for its strength in wind, lightweight and compact size, and tracking abilities for hands-free shots.

Boating Gift Ideas for Her

Sea bags crossbody bag.

The Tan Chebeague Crossbody Bag is handcrafted from recycled sailcloth in Maine . This sophisticated and stylish bag would be great for any woman who wants hands-free convenience with a timeless feel and a connection to the water.

Vaga Bella Swim Suit

Vaga Bella Swimwear is made by Elayna from Sailing La Vagabond. Vaga Bella Swimwear were something I saw on Instagram and definitely had my eye on. Their swimsuits make a great gift for the woman who loves to jump off the boat and swim!

Waterlust Swim Leggings

These leggings are not only made from recycled, post-consumer plastic bottles but they also have a UPF sun protection rating of 50+. These leggings were designed by a company that goes above and beyond to do good for Ocean Conservancy! This purpose-driven, family-run company advocates for marine conservation, donates to research and education, and is sustainable.

Osea Skincare Products

If the female boater in your life loves to try new skin care products, these might a great fit. Osea is a female-founded company is climate-neutral , vegan, and cruelty-free all while being good for the ocean as they’re an Ocean Positive brand.

Sea Bags Cosmetic Bag

Sea Bags makes tote bags, toiletry bags, and cosmetic bags that are handcrafted from recycled sailcloth in Maine. A cosmetic bag would be a great gift to the female boater in your life. To elevate the gift, you could purchase a few Osea Skincare Products and put them into the bag for the female boater in your life. They make the perfect gift ideas for boaters!

Wallaroo Wide Brimmed Hat

Wallaroo is a US company based out of Colorado committed to sun protection with their UPF 30 and UPF 50 hats and visors. After losing one of our hats to a gust of wind, we’ve been eyeing the Wallaroo Hats! Make sure to get a hat with a chin strap so it doesn’t blow away in the wind like ours did! They’re stylish sun protection that any female boater would love. The Wallaroo Gabi hat has a cutout for ponytails, the Wallaroo Sanibel is a classic and timeless look, and the Wallaroo Explorer is a classic outdoor research-style hat.

Custom Coordinates Necklace

For the female boater lover who also loves to wear jewelry, this necklace makes a great gift with engraving your home or home port coordinates. This custom-engraved necklace can be a reminder of home even when you’re miles away.

Boater Gifts Ideas for Any Budget

If you’re not sure what the boater in your life would like, gifting them a gift card to a boating gear store can be an easy solution for you and a thoughtful present in their eyes. Whether it’s to a boating gear website like several listed below or to Dockwa or Amazon, they’ll be able to purchase whatever they need for their boat. Dockwa makes a great gift ideas for boaters in your life who loves to travel from one marina to another. Giving a boat gear gift card is a thoughtful gift for any boater!

Boat Gear USA – Use our code SCHOANDJO to receive 10% off products in our Cleaning and Maintenance Category

Dockwa – Use our Referral Code 450ZMS3 for a $15 discount on your Dockwa reservation!

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Make a Donation in their Name

Maybe the boat lover in your life has everything he or she needs and wants . You can make a donation gift in their name to various waterway conservancies. Here are ten great organizations to consider donating to:

• Alliance for the Great Lakes https://greatlakes.org/
• Save the River – Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper – https://www.savetheriver.org/
• Billion Oyster Project – https://www.billionoysterproject.org/home-1
• Mission Blue – https://missionblue.org/invest-in-the-ocean/
• Marathon Turtle Hospital – https://www.turtlehospital.org/
• Coral Restoration Foundation – https://www.coralrestoration.org/
• Captains for Clean Waters – https://captainsforcleanwater.org/
• Tennessee Riverkeeper – https://www.tennesseeriverkeeper.org/
• Chesapeake Bay Foundation – https://www.cbf.org/
• Tampa Bay Watch – https://tampabaywatch.org/

Time is the most precious gift and resource of all. Giving the gift of time, whether it be to share a weekend out on the water together or time helping the boat lover in your life do boat work. Time is such a valuable resource, and the ability to share time together while making memories is really the most underrated gift, and the best gift ideas for boaters.

Final Thoughts on Gift Ideas for Boat Lovers

I hope this list of gift ideas for boaters helped you find the perfect gift for that boat lover in your life! Remember that gifting experiences and quality time is the best gift of all . Our favorite memories aboard our boat PIVOT all revolve around spending quality time with the ones we love most. We hope this list of gift ideas for boat lovers helps you in planning your holiday presents!

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24 Unique Gifts for Boat Owners

When a purchase is made through our links, we may earn a commission from Amazon, West Marine and other online businesses. You can learn about our content and affiliate policies on this page .

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!

What are you waiting for???

Subscribe today & save 10% off any Custom Yacht Shirts order!

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Angler approved: choosing the best hooded fishing shirt, inboard vs outboard engines: your comprehensive guide, gifts for boaters: 22 top picks for your captain, best braided fishing line: unraveling the top picks for anglers, types of fishing reels: the angler’s handbook, sail with confidence: the best boat compass for every captain.

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• Fun Boat Accessories: Elevate your On-the-Water Experience
• Protect & Shine: The Best Boat Wax for Ultimate Protection
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Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

31 of the best Christmas gifts for boat owners

• Alison Wood
• December 7, 2022

From the pages of Practical Boat Owner magazine – our pick of the best Christmas gift ideas for the boat owner in your life

Finding decent Christmas gifts for boat owners on a budget is an unenviably tricky task, but luckily Practical Boat Owner is here to help!

Below are our recommended Christmas gifts for boat owners – including top reads, stocking fillers and plenty of kit that we’ve had hands-on experience with over the past year.

Best Christmas gift cards for boat owners

Stuck for ideas? Running out of time? A gift card ensures your loved one can get exactly what they want (even if it’s not exactly the most thoughtful gift in the world!)

Here’s where you can currently buy Christmas gift cards for boat owners:

Buy Gael Force Marine gift vouchers Buy Amazon gift cards Buy Decathlon gift cards

Note: we may earn a small commission if you click on links but this doesn’t affect our editorial independence

Christmas gifts for boat owners: our pick of the best reads.

Stress-Free Engine Maintenance

Duncan Wells’ series of books aimed at helping boat owners take stressful situations in their stride is deservedly popular. He produced the most recent title in conjunction with marine engineer Jonathan Parker, who dealt with some 3,000 breakdowns as Sea Start’s operations manager.

This volume takes boat owners through all aspects of engine maintenance in a straightforward and jargon-free manner. It includes sections covering how to spot problems at an early stage, before they result in a breakdown, as well as troubleshooting, routine servicing and more major repairs.

The information is presented in an accessible, manageable way, with the use of diagrams, quick reference tables, QR videos, tips and checklists. There are also plenty of amusing anecdotes and useful lessons learned.

Buy it now via Amazon

Buy it now on waterstones.com

Quirky History: Maritime Moments Most History Books Forgot

A billing of ‘maritime moments most history books don’t mention’ promises a treasure trove of long-forgotten facts.

Quirky History looks at 25 nautical events ranging from Henry V’s invasion of France in 1415, consisting mainly of chartered French ships, to World War II episodes including the Somali Camel Corps capturing a German U-boat.

Historic figures covered include Horatio Nelson, Napoleon, Rudolf Diesel and Lawrence of Arabia. The book is illustrated with 100 of author John Quirk’s cartoons.

Where possible he relates the historical happenings to the present day, tracing the history of the screw and war-time misinformation (fake news).

Buy it now on Amazon

The Lochs of Scotland by Stuart Fisher

Christmas is a great time to ponder potential future sailing destinations and where better than some of Scotland’s stunning scenery?

Lochs of Scotland is a comprehensive guide showcasing 50 of the most captivating sea and inland lochs, written by keen kayaker and editor of Canoeing magazine, Stuart Fisher.

It’s packed with photos, maps and information on local facilities. Each chapter is beautifully illustrated and contains detailed information about the local landscape, wildlife and history.

Coverage includes iconic locations such as Loch Ness, Loch Lomond, and Loch Long, plus less well known destinations, including the fjord-like Loch Goil, just 30 miles from Glasgow city centre as the crow files.

PBO subscription

Do you know any young boaters or people who dream of owning a boat one day? A recommendation from you to start reading PBO could save them money in the long run and means our experts can continue helping all boat owners with their problems.

Subscribe to Practical Boat Owner for just £21.50 for six months and get a free 20lt waterproof packaway backpack worth £27.99. Visit magazinesdirect.com/a88r or call 0330 333 1113 and quote X773 (red), X771 (blue) or X772 (grey) for the backpack.

Buy it now on magazinesdirect.com

The Boatyard book – a boatowner’s guide to yacht maintenance, repair and refitting

The Boatyard Book by Simon Jollands

This lovely, nicely illustrated book on boat maintenance has been a true companion throughout our PBO Project Boat restoration . With topics on everything from hull work, electrics, rigging, sails and propulsion, right down to the tool kit you should keep onboard, paperwork, costs and laying up, it covers everything you need to know as a boat owner.

Even if you don’t plan to do the maintenance yourself, it’s good to know what you’re getting yourself into, and Simon Jollands’s friendly tutorials will appeal to beginners and experts alike.

Buy the Boatyard book on Amazon

Christmas gifts for boat owners: Stocking fillers

Seaweed and samphire gin.

Traditional ship’s chandler Arthur Beale has launched a brand of gin with a definite flavour of the sea. It’s brewed in small batches that are expertly infused with seaweed and samphire for what the company calls ‘a signature sea-swept flavour.’

Buy it now on arthurbeale.co.uk

All At Sea game

A family friendly card game in which players set out on a fast-paced cruise around the United Kingdom, this would make an ideal Christmas gift for boat owners who are bored of whist, rummy and poker.

Each player is dealt a voyage card that lists six ports to complete their journey. However, there are plenty of hazards and bonuses to encounter. Shipping Forecast cards may help or hinder your progress.

The game, developed by Hazel Cushion who learned to sail aged 60, is suitable for 2-6 players aged 8-plus and 10% of the sale price (£19.99) goes to the RNLI.

Buy it now from allatseagame.com

RNLI-themed gifts

This year’s RNLI Christmas catalogue includes 76 Christmas gifts for boat owners ranging from a code flag mug (£6) and tea towel (£7) through to recycled sailcloth items such as bags, storage buckets and wash bags (£48), and a Flagship Weather Station (right) with barometer, thermometer, hygrometer and clock (£200).

There’s also a wide selection of family games, gift wrap and decorations.

Shop now on the RNLI website

Christmas gifts for boat owners: Our pick of the best gear

Garmin messenger marine bundle

A combination of mobile phones and AIS broadcasts are great for keeping in touch with family at home while cruising, enabling them to track your progress. However, there are many places around the coasts of the UK, Ireland and elsewhere in northern Europe where phone coverage is poor, or shore stations don’t pick up AIS.

The solution is a low-cost satellite messaging system. Garmin’s latest is the inReach Mini 2 Marine Bundle, which includes two-way text messaging of up to 160 characters (longer messages are possible, but these are broken up into more than one message).

The unit also offers automated tracking that friends and family can follow, as well as SOS functionality linking to the Garmin International Emergency Response Coordination Centre.

The unit offers up to 14 days of continuous run time in the default 10-minute tracking mode, so will continue to work even in the event of a complete onboard power failure.

Buy it now on Garmin.com

Allen hatch cover bags

Many dinghies and open dayboats have nowhere to stow snacks or water for a long day afloat. Allen Brothers has solved this problem with a neat idea that uses some of the space inside buoyancy tanks as a small stowage area.

Each bag has enough space for a 500ml water bottle and several snack bars. A build up of salt can cause even the best plastic zips to become seized, so instead Velcro is used to hold the bag closed and keep its contents securely in place.

They are designed to fit all Allen hatch covers and can be used with other brands of circular hatch covers with a moulded bump on the internal side of the lid.

Buy it now on allenbrothers.co.uk

Zhik deck gloves

These top-end gloves are designed for use on cruising yachts and have a ‘Gecko’ style silicone palm pad for excellent grip.

High stretch outer panelling allows for easy movement of hands, while the low-profile wrist panels are designed to give free articulation of the wrists.

The outer panels are also perforated to maximise airflow and promote fast drying, while heavy-duty stitching and double reinforced panelling adds protection and durability.

Buy it now from Zhik.com

Luceco rechargable LED torch

The Luceco LED inspection torch is great for boats

Every boat owner needs a torch for poking around engines, bilges and other nooks and crannies. Since we got this one from Screwfix, we can’t live without it !

If, like us, you’ve got mountains of kit buried in bottomless lockers, you need an LED inspection torch to find what you’re looking for.

This nifty torch can twist around so you can stand it up or hang it down from hooks. It’s also magnetic, has three different settings, and you can recharge the batteries from your car or a 3-pin plug.

Buy the Luceco LED inspection torch from Screwfix

Zhik UV protective sailing top

Ali Wood testing the Zhik UV Active top at her Dorset sailing club

Zhik’s new UV Active tops are available for men or women, and are very comfortable for sports and hot weather. Ideal for shoreside as well as water activities they come in navy or grey with long sleeves (£39.95) or short sleeves (£34.96). They’re made with a fine-gauge, soft interlock weave and are antistatic and snag-resistant.

We’ve tested ours a lot this year and have been impressed. When compared to a regular cotton t-shirt, Zhik’s UV Active top keeps you noticeably cooler, and the soft fabric is luxurious against your skin.

Buy a Zhik UV Active top on Amazon

Slastik snap-on reading glasses

Slastik glasses are a perfect Christmas gift for active boat owners

Perfect for an active lifestyle, Slastik’s smart range of glasses snap open at the front with a magnetic clip but have a continuous strap around the back, meaning they don’t fall off.

No need to resort to contact lenses or squinting over numbers on a chartplotter, the anti-reflective reading glasses are a great cockpit companion for any cruising sailor.

Buy Slastik reading glasses on Amazon

Slastik also do a stylish range of sunglasses. We tested the Swing magnetic glasses at sea and were impressed with how comfortable and unobtrusive they are – you simply forget you’re wearing them.  The lenses offer 400% UV protection and, being polarised, prevent harsh reflection from water or snow.

Buy Slastick magnetic sunglasses on Amazon

Captain Tolley’s Creeping Crack Cure

Captain Tolley’s Creeping Crack Cure – boat owners love it!

No boat should go without a bottle of Captain Tolley’s Creeping Crack Cure. An ailment for leaky windows and fittings, this liquid sealant/ adhesive travels deep into tiny hairline cracks and makes a waterproof seal.

We’ve used it on the PBO Project Boat, and boat owners swear by it, including  Louis Derry of Boat Renovation People . At just £7.95 it makes the perfect stocking filler.

Buy Captain Tolley’s Creeping Crack Cure on Amazon

Red Original eco-friendly laptop bag

Surprisingly, the tough, waterproof fabric of Red Original’s new laptop bag is made out plastic bottles. The process is interesting – it begins with rescuing used plastic bottles, which are broken down into pellets, melted and spun into a fibre, which is then woven into the fabric.

The Red Original waterproof backpack

The backpack has wide, comfortable shoulder straps and a padded back, allowing air to flow through and stop you getting too sweaty. There are two outer pockets for water bottles, and inside, a detachable padded laptop section and secret pocket for keys. 

We put this to the test in lumpy 2m seas whilst covering the start of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers . It got a thorough pounding and soaking, but everything inside remained dry and intact.

Although the bag holds 30 litres, it feels a lot more spacious, especially if you don’t roll the top too much.

For anyone wanting to keep their tablet, laptop and pilot books safe in the cockpit for easy navigation, this is the ideal bag. 

Buy a Red Original Eco-friendly waterproof backpack

Red Original 40l and 60l kit bags

Also made from recycled plastic bottles is the Red Original kit bag. Sturdy and snag-proof, it’s is a great overnight holdall for taking to the boat, and  will keep your kit dry in damp environments.

The Red Original 40l kitbag

Like Red’s laptop bag, the kit bag is also waterproof, only this one has several different compartments so you can keep wet items separate from dry ones.

We like the fact it has a long zip, enabling quick and easy access (unlike traditional roll-top dry bags), and rucksack straps as well as carry straps, so you have a few different options for lugging it around.

You can read a longer review here , and see PBO Features Editor Ali put it to the test at her Dorset sailing club.

Buy a 40l kit bag from Red Original

Buy a 60l kit bag from Red Original

Gobesty collapsible travel kettle

Making a brew on the companionway of the PBO Project Boat Maximus

This neat little silicone kettle is great for use in the marina as it packs up small and runs on shorepower. It’s only 3.93in when folded and 7.08in unfolded, and can carry 0.6L, which is plenty for 4 small cups or 3 mugs of tea. The plug cord is detachable and can be removed when not in use.

Buy a Gobestry foldable kettle on Amazon

Red Original cooler backpack

The Red Original cooler backpack is great for picnics and boats without fridges

If you don’t have a fridge onboard, this cooler backpack is handy for keeping drinks and picnics cool on day-sails or longer trips. We tested this on the PBO Project boat recently, on a delivery trip recently from Chichester to Poole with an overnight stay in Yarmouth.

Using freezer packs we were able to keep the butter, ham, milk and cheese cool for the two days. Ice is said to last 48 hours in the bag, which comes with a padded back panel and removable chest strap. The backpack  is 15l and can store up to 24 cans.  For more storage, Red Original also do a larger 30l cooler bag .

This year, Red Original is offering a gift-wrapping service , too, to take the pain out of those frantic pre-Christmas sessions.

Buy 15l cooler backpack from Red Original

Buy 30l cooler bag from Red Original

Shakespeare emergency inflatable VHF antenna

An emergency VHF antenna is a great piece of kit to have on any boat, especially if going offshore. If the main VHF antenna fails for any reason, this is your backup.

Shakespeare’s new Galaxy Infl8-5 is an inflatable antenna, which, like lifejackets, inflates using a CO2 cartridge (though a smaller size than standard lifejacket ones). It pops up straight away from the high-vis bag, but you can also manually inflate it, before attaching it to the pushpit to enhance your radio signal.

Handy also for kayaks, jet skis and dinghies, the Shakespeare Inflatable & Special Purpose Antenna inflates to 5ft and is compatible with most handheld radios (check with manufacturers for compatibility with the SMA male adaptor).

Buy a Shakespeare Galaxy Infl8-5 VHF Inflatable Emergency Antenna on Amazon

Liberty Lifesaver Water filtration bottles

Boat water tanks require careful maintenance, but if you’ve let this slip, or simply don’t have a water source you can trust, the Lifesaver Liberty filtration bottle is a great, quick and easy way to get clean water. We should know – we used it to drink bilge water and lived to tell the tale!

Also, handy for hikes into the wilderness or remote anchorages where you might need to source water from a river or lake, this is the ultimate  Christmas gift for adventurous boat owners.

A larger, 5l, Lifesaver Cube is also available, which is ideal to keep onboard.

Buy the 5l Lifesaver Cube on Amazon

Buy the Lifesaver Liberty water filtration bottle on Amazon

Portable gas detector

A gas detector wand is an essential surveyor’s tool

Ok, so this isn’t the most glamorous Christmas gift for boat owners, but if we said this could save yours (or your loved one’s) life, then you’ll agree it’s worth taking a look. A gas detector is an essential tool for a marine surveyor, but it’s also useful for boat owners to keep on board, especially liveaboards. Gas will gather in the lowest parts of the boats – the bilges and engine compartments – so it’s important to inspect these areas from time to time.

PBO’s marine surveyor Ben Sutcliffe Davies uses a TPI 725L combustible gas detector from Screwfix. The battery-powered detector can be used one-handed and has both a visual indicator and an audio alarm that beeps as you wave it around. If gas is detected, the beeping speeds up.

Buy the TPI 725L combustible gas detector from Screwfix

Scanstrut Rokk Dual USB charger

The Rokk waterproof charger can be used inside or out

No more fighting over the charging points! Scanstrut’s Roxx Dual USB Waterproof Charger Socket can be used indoors or out, and can charge two devices at the same time.

It has an output current of 4.2A (total) and click and lock lid to prevent any water ingress into your USB connector.

Buy the Scanstrut Roxx Dual USB Waterproof charger socket on Amazon

Scanstrut Rokk Mini Universal Tablet Mount Kit

As well as having a cockpit socket to keep your tablet charged, it’s a good idea to get a mount to keep it safe. Scanstrut’s Mini Universal Tablet Mount allows you to fix the tablet onto any 19-34mm diameter rail.

There’s some great navigation software out there now, such as Navionics , which you can stream or download to your tablet, so now you have a full chartplotting solution without having to invest lots of money in electronic devices.

Buy the Scanstrut Mini Universal Tablet Mount on Amazon

Zhik drybags

The 30lt backpack (grey) and the high-vis 6lt pack

You can never have enough drybags and Zhik’s high quality kit always makes good Chrstimas gifts for boat owners. The new 30lt dry backpack is made from a heavy duty 100% waterproof fabric with welded seams.

Features include an internal zipped pocket, padded laptop holder, and water bottle pouch. Extra compression straps will help to reduce bulk when the bag is only partially full and can double to secure jackets and the like on the outside.

Zhik has also launched a new 6lt high vis dry bag. Again this is 100% waterproof with taped seams and is supplied with its own pouch for easy stowage when not in use.

Buy it now on eBay

Scanstrut Rokk Wireless Nest charger

Scanstrut Nest – for recharging phones the tidy way

Tired of the tangle of wires and multiple phones and all too frequently clutter nav stations and other work surfaces on board? This Scanstrut Nest is a neat pocket with a built-in wireless charger in which to keep the phone when it’s not being used.

It’s designed for easy integration into voids within consoles and cabinets, behind seating and so on. A grippy mat stops the phone moving around inside the pocket, while the front lip acts as a further physical barrier to help keep it in place.

Inesis 900 Laser Rangefinder

Designed for golfers, this is equally useful on any cruising boat that encounters crowded anchorages. Even the most experienced skipper can struggle to judge distances accurately enough to identify a safe spot to anchor between other vessels – the deck of a boat simply isn’t a good vantage point for this.

A decent laser rangefinder solves this problem – when preparing to anchor you can figure out exactly the distance to other boats. Equally if another vessel anchors close to you it can be used to figure out if there’s safe swinging space for both vessels. Maximum range of this unit is a whopping 1,200m.

Buy it now on decathlon.co.uk

Spot Gen4 satellite tracker

This device completes a trio of relatively low cost Spot satellite tracking and messaging devices. The Spot Gen4 fits between the basic Spot Tracker , which only pings a position to your phone or email, and the Spot X that allows two-way email and SMS text messaging of up to around 500 characters. The Spot Gen4 allows your friends and family to track your location. In addition, you can pre-programme short custom text messages to indicate whether you’re OK or in need of a specific type of help.

There’s also an SOS function that sends an alert to the GEOS International Emergency Response Coordination Center, which in turn can raise the alarm with the relevant coastguard agency. The unit uses the Globalstar satellite network which now includes almost all of the Americas (apart from the very southern extremities of Chile), the north Atlantic ocean, plus all of Europe, the Med and north Africa.

Yachts on passage across the Atlantic from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean will, however, pass through a band with only fringe coverage.

Helly Hansen Men’s Arctic Ocean Parka

Helly Hansen designed this for sailing in the harshest conditions and it’s perfect for winter days afloat. It has a waterproof outer layer, a breathable inner fabric, plus an insulating layer made of a high loft and quick drying recycled polyester material. Taped seams, a double storm flap and watertight cuffs are provided to keep the water out.

Gill Penryn Hybrid Jacket

Gill’s new Penryn Hybrid Jacket is super lightweight and made from a four-way stretch fabric with a soft brushed interior. A down-like synthetic insulation is used, which provides excellent warmth and can be packed tightly for easy travel. It’s available in both men’s and women’s fits.

Gill OS Thermal Neck Gaiter

Gill’s new Thermal Neck Gaiter made of a pill-resistant fleece, a four-way thermal stretch material and a soft brushed waffle interior.

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated boating page for more marine products.

21 Great Gifts for Boat Owners, Sailors, and Sailing Enthusiasts

Today we are taking a look at 21 great gifts for boat owners. From practical gifts like digital wind meters, to more whimsical gifts such as a custom portrait, we’ve got you covered.

Below you will find gifts for sailors and sailing enthusiasts, too…so there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy here! With so many ideas to browse through, there’s a good chance you’ll find just what you’re looking for.

So join us as we dive in (pardon the pun) to this listicle and help you find that special gift your loved one is sure to enjoy for years to come.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links. Read our full disclosure here .

1. Custom Engraved Captain’s Gift Tumbler

Everyone needs to stay hydrated, especially on hot summer days. Surprise a special boater in your life with this durable personalized tumbler !

Perfect for those long, sweltering days spent out on the boat, this cool tumbler from Northwest Gifts is totally customizable. Add their name and title (“Captain” is always a good choice!), and you can even change up the text to what you really want it to say.

This stainless steel tumbler is vacuum-sealed as well as double-walled, keeping chilled beverages cold for hours on end. Choose from seven different colors.

2. Personalized Sailing Sign

This personalized sailing sign is a great gift for sailing enthusiasts and boat owners alike. Bonus points if they actually own a beach house, too!

Available from Northwest Gifts, this sign is crafted from real wood planks and hand-distressed for that special old-timey look and feel. Personalize it with your loved one’s name and the proprietor’s name you would like featured.

3. Custom Sailing Portrait

Using her God-given gift, watercolor painter Mary Ann has been making beautiful works of art for her valued clients for years.

Send her a photograph of your loved one, their boat, or a scenic view such as the one above, and she will create a stunning keepsake painting worthy to be passed down from generation to generation.

This is one of the best gifts for boat owners, ever!

4. Garmin Striker 4 GPS Fishfinder

The best gifts for boat owners do not have to be difficult to find, especially if they enjoy fishing. Consider this quality Garmin Fishfinder .

In addition to ClearVu scanning, this radar device includes built-in CHIRP sonar, which sends out a series of frequency sweeps, as opposed to one. That means high-performance views through the undercurrents!

The integrated GPS also allows for pinpointing of the best fishing spots, so that your boater can easily return to them time and time again. This is a gift they’ll love, use, and love to use.

5. Custom Engraved Compass

The compass is a classical seafaring tool used by sailors and boaters for hundreds of years. This beautiful piece by Etsy shop CMTImpressions is inspired by compasses of old, and makes for a practical gift that can also be cherished as a keepsake.

Using a diamond-tipped engraver, the shop will personalize the compass with your loved one’s name, initials, or any other text you want. Get yours here .

6. Personalized Captain’s Hat

Here is another great gift for the novice boat owner or newly licensed Captain in your life. Show your loved one how proud you are of them by surprising them with this personalized Captain’s hat .

Their name, nickname, or any other text comes foil-stamped onto the hat. This gift comes custom gift-wrapped, as well, making it perfect for any special occasion or holiday.

7. Garmin InReach Satellite Communicator

While boating and sailing are super fun pastimes, unfortunately they come with some risks. One of those risks, especially for maritime boaters, is getting lost at sea. Eliminate that worry with this Garmin InReach Satellite Communicator .

This device includes GPS tracking capabilities, two-way messaging to keep in close contact with loved ones, and an SOS system that works from anywhere in the world. In addition, an emergency monitoring center is connected to the device and is available 24/7.

8. Sailboat Heartbeat Shirt

Been there, got the shirt! Now your loved one can wear their love for sailing on their sleeve (almost) with this cute nautical t-shirt from Etsy.

Each tee features a sailboat and heartbeat wavelength design. Choose between men’s, women’s, or unisex sizes, and also from many different styles. These tops are made from cotton and polyester, making them extra soft and durable.

9. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

There’s nothing like relaxing on a boat with some chill music in the background. Give your loved one this wireless waterproof speaker , and they will be able to enjoy music (or a podcast or whatever they like to listen to) without fear of water damage.

It comes equipped with Bluetooth technology for voice command options as well, and has an impressive 34-hour battery life.

10. Vintage Captain Plaque

Everyone knows that anyone who owns a boat is the Captain of that boat (even if unofficially)! Place a spotlight on your loved one’s status as a new boat owner with this vintage-style Captain’s plaque .

Made from quality wood planks and hand-distressed, this sign will let everyone with permission to come aboard know who’s boss.

The ship’s wheel relief carving adds a special effect, and you can also include a personalized hanging name board as pictured above.

11. Waterproof Marine Binoculars

Binoculars are popular among bird-watchers, but just think of all the aquatic life your loved one could see using them, too.

These high-grade marine binoculars will get the job done. They are durable, waterproof and fog-proof, and include an internal compass and range finder. They feature 50 mm lenses as well as a 10x field of view.

12. The Arts of the Sailor Book

It’s a good idea to think outside of the box when looking for gifts for sailors and sailing enthusiasts. If they also happen to love reading, The Arts of the Sailor may be the perfect pick for them.

In this fascinating book, author and sailing expert Hervey Garrett Smith offers insights on the many types and uses of maritime knots…invaluable information for any maritime enthusiast.

13. Sailboat Blueprint Art

Help your loved one brighten up the cabin space of their new boat with this unique set of three sailboat blueprints . Each piece is printed on acid-free photo paper using archival-quality ink, and features the various components of sailboats. Choose from four different print sizes as well as background color.

14. Bass Fish Key Rack

There’s nothing worse than setting your keys down and not remembering where you put them. And when you’re on a boat, it’s of high importance to keep track of keys, or it’s going to be awhile before you’re land ho again!

Let us help your loved one keep track of their keys with this charming bass fish key rack . To create this piece, a master craftsman firsts carved out the original fish design, and each key rack is cast in bronze from the original mold for that shiny, finished look.

15. Funny Boat Docking Sign

Docking a boat (without looking ridiculous) can be pretty difficult at times, as every boat owner knows. Show your support for your favorite boat-docker with this hilarious boat owner gift sign from MemorEase on Etsy. Each plaque measures 22×20 inches, is crafted from real wood planks and is finished with an enamel coat.

16. Sailboat Necklace

Great gifts for sailing enthusiasts do not have to be hard to find, either. You just have to know where to look!

Take this dainty necklace with a sailboat charm , brought to you by Dulicious Jewelry. Gold-filled for durability and available in five different chain lengths, this pretty necklace is sure to be adored by the avid sailor, boater, or beach lover.

17. Boat Repair Fund Jar

Maintenance is a necessary element to any big investment. That includes boats and the inevitable repair work that comes with them.

This ceramic “boat repair fund” jar from Cottage Creek Shop takes away some of that stress by keeping things on the lighter side. Give a boat repair fund jar to your loved one (and maybe throw in a buck or two) and watch as their face lights up.

18. Digital Anemometer

For smooth sailing and great fishing, wind meters (aka anemometers) are essential. So give your loved one the gift of wind measurement with a premium-quality Kestrel anemometer .

This particular pocket anemometer is waterproof and equipped with a high-contrast LCD screen. It’s extremely compact and made for everyday handheld use. Besides boating, sailing, and fishing, it can be relied upon when hunting, paragliding, kite flying, and during other activities.

19. Personalized Boat Owner Gift Bottle Opener

A Northwest Gifts Original, we handcraft and laser etch this unique wall-mounted bottle opener in our Oregon wood shop.

Personalized with your captain’s name below a ship’s wheel, our opener makes a great gift for any boater, sailor, or sailing enthusiast who likes to pop open a brew and have a good time wherever they are.

20. Waterproof Backpack

Planning a trip out on the lake or sea will be easy for your loved one when they are able to take this backpack along for the ride.

This Skog A Kust backpack is waterproof and features padded back support for exceptional comfort. It’s available in two different sizes and eight different colors. It’s the perfect bag for packing snacks, notebooks, towels, clothes, or anything else that may need protection from the water.

21. Premium Boat Magic Erasers

These magic erasers seem to be just that: magic! They can remove almost every “impossible” mark or stain for almost any surface. And now they make them just for boat cleaning.

These premium sponge erasers promise to eliminate dirt and other unsightly marks from boat surfaces, whether it be plastic, wood, vinyl, glass, or fiberglass. Better yet, these sponges contain no harsh chemicals. And while it may be an unusual gift for boat owners, they will certainly be most welcome.

More Gifts for Boat Owners

We hope you enjoyed this list featuring 21 gifts for boat owners, sailors, and sailing enthusiasts. Moreover, we hope you found a great gift that your loved one is sure to treasure for years to come.

However, if your search continues on, please take a look at more of what Northwest Gifts has to offer here . We pride ourselves in offering only the highest quality products, most of which are 100% customizable. Check us out today!

Read Next: Seaworthy Gift Ideas for Boat Owners

Aubrey Bauer

Aubrey is a lifelong writer who has blogged professionally since 2012. With additional education and career history in funeral service, she started her online writing business, Eulogies by Aubrey, in 2019. She has written not only for gift and funeral-related...

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• Best Gifts for a Boat Owner

Boating gifts are fun to give and receive if you have a family member who adores spending time on the lake or ocean. A boater typically loves receiving gifts for the boat because it shows them you care about their interests and passion. Various boat accessories, equipment, apparel, technology and decor options make the perfect gifts for any occasion.

Best Gifts for Boaters

Finding a gift for a boat owner can be fun when you know what to look for. Whether your spouse loves to hit the water or you need gifts for dad, boat accessories, equipment, apparel and technology are always a hit. Consider the following gifts you can give the boat enthusiast in your life:

Fishing Equipment

Fishing equipment is an exceptional gift idea if you have an angler in your family or social circle. The following types of fishing equipment can boost your loved one’s fishing experiences:

• Lures:  Anglers love trying new lures and finding new ways to attract an excellent catch. Find the latest lures to make your boater’s next fishing trip a success.
• Reels:  Reels are also valuable to beginners and experienced anglers. The  best and latest reels  offer increased durability and performance, making them a perfect gift.
• Navigation tools and fish Finders:  Boating navigation technology such as  marine global positioning systems  (GPS) and fish finders help boaters navigate the water and locate the best fishing spots. You can gift your loved one a high-quality fish finder to help them gain a closer look at water depth, fish locations and water temperatures.
• Fillet knives:  If your loved one enjoys fishing and cooking, fillet knives are excellent gift options. With  the finest fillet knives , they can prepare the fish they catch and create a culinary masterpiece.

Satellite Communicator

A satellite communicator is one of the best gifts for someone who loves boating because it increases safety and convenience. Satellite communicators help boaters stay in touch with friends and family members from remote locations. If they take their boats into areas with limited or no cell phone service, they can use satellite communicators to call or text people at home.

Some satellite communicators, such as the  Garmin inReach Mini 2 , feature navigation tools and interactive SOS capabilities. With a satellite communicator, an individual can check their work email from the boat, let family members know they’re going to stay on the water longer or  call for help in an emergency . You can purchase this technology to gift a boater peace of mind and easy connection.

Quality Sunglasses

High-quality sunglasses are essential for anyone who spends time in the sun navigating the water. If you notice a boater lacks sunglasses or uses a low-quality brand, you can gift them a superior pair to improve their boating experience. A top-tier pair of sunglasses should feature the following benefits:

• 100% ultraviolet (UV) protection
• Anti-reflective coating to increase vision clarity and prevent eye strain
• Scratch-resistant lenses
• Polarized lenses that prevent glare
• Moisture and smudge resistance coating 
• Enhanced color technology to increase natural colors and contrast
• Self-adjusting spring hinges for the most comfortable fit
• Nonslip temple and nose pads

Purchasing from a superior brand, such as  the Smith Fishing Collection,  can help you gift the best sunglasses possible.

Waterproof Sound Machine

Whether the boater in your life enjoys lively boat parties or relaxing fishing trips, a splash-resistant sound machine can enhance their time on the water. A waterproof sound machine such as the  Turtlebox Gen 2 Portable speaker  lets boaters play their favorite music in any location. To make this gift extra special, consider creating a curated playlist with  top boating rock songs  or your loved one’s favorite tunes.

Waterproof Digital Camera

A waterproof digital camera such as  the GoPro Hero11  allows your favorite boater to record footage in any condition. Whether they want to capture memories with the family, record exciting moments for social media or document their activities for a personal channel, a waterproof camera is an excellent gift.

Durable Jacket

A durable, waterproof jacket is essential when navigating the water. Weather conditions can fluctuate, so rain, wind and chilly temperatures are common occurrences. The right jacket allows a boater to have the best time no matter what conditions the weather throws their way. A quality jacket such as the Helly Hansen Men’s  Crew Hooded Sailing Jacket  can keep your loved one warm and comfortable for the best boating experience.

Lightweight Cooler

Refreshing  drinks and delicious snacks are essentials  for any boating trip. Consider gifting your boating friend or family member  a lightweight insulated cooler . High-quality, lightweight coolers are easy to carry and can keep your boater’s favorite refreshments cool all day.

In addition to the typical snacks and drinks a boater should carry on board, many boating enthusiasts enjoy alcoholic beverages on their boating adventures. Rum is a fantastic choice for any boating trip. Give your favorite boating enthusiast a bottle they can enjoy on their next fishing excursion or gathering on the lake.

Watersports Equipment

Watersports equipment is one of the best gifts for boat lovers who also enjoy the occasional adrenaline rush. The following equipment can make your favorite boater’s next water excursion an exhilarating experience:

• Towable water tubes 
• Towable floats
• Life jackets

Night Vision Camera

If you need a gift idea for a boater who enjoys being on the water after dark, a night vision camera is an excellent choice. A night vision camera such as the Sionyx Nightwave  Ultra-Low Light Marine Camera  enhances navigational safety, helping a boater see and avoid obstacles easily. It can also help them detect floating objects around the boat.

Personalized Boat Decor

Personalized boat decor is a unique gift your boating enthusiast is sure to love. You can order custom doormats or throw pillows to brighten a boat’s space. Your friend or family member  likely named their boat , and personalized decor with their boat’s name is a creative gift they can enjoy.

Find or Build the Perfect Boat With Formula Boats

Finding the perfect gift for a boating enthusiast is a fun way to share their love of the water. It may even inspire you to seek a boat of your own and join the adventure. If you or a loved one  is interested in purchasing  or  building a high-performing boat , Formula Boats can help.

We offer beautiful, world-renowned boats to enhance your time in the ocean or on the lake.  Locate a dealer  to purchase a boat produced with advanced engineering and superior quality, or  contact us to learn more  about how we can help you customize your next boat.

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MacKenzie Scott donates $640 million to 361 nonprofits

Billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has donated $640 million to 361 nonprofit groups, she announced Tuesday. 

Scott, the ex-wife of Jeff Bezos and a co-founder of Amazon , has been keeping good on her word to donate at least half of her wealth to charity as part of the Giving Pledge . 

The latest round of donations, which varied from gifts of $1 million to $2 million, were awarded to nonprofit groups across the country with a variety of focuses — the arts, affordable housing, education, public health, immigration and diversity. 

In a post on her Yield Giving website , she wrote that those community-led groups were "elevated by peer organizations and a round-2 evaluation panel for their outstanding work advancing the voices and opportunities of individuals and families of meager or modest means, and groups who have met with discrimination and other systemic obstacles."

The organizations were chosen from a pool of over 6,000 applicants.

The nonprofit groups were chosen either via “quiet research” that identified and evaluated organizations for “indicators of high potential for sustained positive impact” or through an “ open call ” application process. 

Scott also thanked Lever for Change, which handled the open call, and those on the evaluation and implementation teams, calling them “vital agents of change.” 

Scott is the 41st-wealthiest person in the world, with a net worth of $36.2 billion, according to the  Bloomberg Billionaires Index .

Breaking News Reporter

The owner of a $3.4 million Lamborghini yacht screamed 'I will kill you' and threw $100 bills into the water when told he couldn't use a private dock

• The owner of a Lamborghini yacht threatened a private dock employee, per CBS8.
• The employee said Ajay Thakore mooned and threw cash at him after being told he couldn't use the dock.
• Thakore, the CEO of Doctor Multimedia, issued an apology through his public relations team.

The owner of a $3.4 million Lamborghini yacht threatened a private dock employee after being told he couldn't be there, the San Diego-based broadcaster CBS8 reported on March 11.

Joseph Holt, a 21-year-old employee at Marriot Marina in San Diego, told CBS8 that he spotted the yacht sailing into the private dock. The owner, whom CBS8 identified as Ajay Thakore, tried to pick another person up at the dock, Holt said.

"I told him respectfully that he couldn't be there, and I honestly was hoping to have a conversation with him about his cool boat," Holt told CBS8.

In a YouTube video posted by @SM-wc9eq on March 10, a dark blue Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 is seen sailing out of a dock. A man in a gray T-shirt, a pair of jeans, and a cap was shown standing on the yacht. The man appeared to be Thakore, per CBS8.

Thakore was shown shouting at Holt. "I will kill you, you know I will kill you!" he can be heard saying multiple times in the video

Thakore was later shown pounding his fist on his palm and pointing his thumb down before telling Holt: "To your face!" Holt was shown responding by pointing his middle finger at Thakore.

"I really was trying to restrain myself from getting fired from my job or stepping out of line. The only thing I did was give him the bird," Holt told CBS8.

Related stories

Holt said Thakore then took $100 bills from his wallet and threw them at him. He added that Thakore mooned him. This exchange was not shown in the video.

"He was saying I'm nobody, I'm nothing, I work a silly job. He said that he knows people, he has connections, he can change my life and ruin it," Holt said. Holt did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

The San Diego Harbor Police arrived at the marina 10 minutes after Thakore's yacht exited the dock, per CBS8.

The Harbor Police told Business Insider that Holt decided to press charges against Thakore and that they are investigating the incident.

According to Thakore's LinkedIn page , he's the CEO of Doctor Multimedia. The company's website shows that it's a healthcare marketing firm based in San Diego. Thakore appears to go by the name Ace Rogers on Instagram and TikTok, where he's noted as being a professional gambler.

Thakore, through his public relations team, told CBS8 in a statement that his altercation with Holt was "regrettable."

"What started as a minor misunderstanding escalated into an argument, and I apologize for my actions and to those who witnessed the unfortunate exchange," the statement said. Thakore did not immediately respond to a request for comment from BI.

Thakore isn't the only CEO who's been called out for threatening another person. In November 2021, an Activision spokesperson told BI that its ex-CEO Bobby Kotick had previously apologized for telling his assistant he would have her killed. The spokesperson added that Kotick's threat was "obviously hyperbolic and inappropriate" and that "he deeply regrets the exaggeration and tone."

In June 2020, Lisa Alexander, the CEO of LaFace Skincare, a cosmetics company, apologized in a statement to the media after she had threatened to call the police on her neighbor for writing "Black Lives Matter" on his property. Alexander said in the apology that she was "disrespectful" and "should have minded my own business."

March 21, 2024: This story has been updated with Harbor Police's comments.

Watch: The scariest things OceanGate's CEO said about deep-sea diving

• Main content

For 48 years, this Pender family has dressed people from head to toe

Business: Surfside Sportswear & Gifts

Address:   314 N. New River Drive, Surf City, N.C. 28445

Type of merchandise:  Exclusive name brand women's clothing, swimwear, shoes, jewelry, gifts and home décor

Price range:  $30-$175

Hours:  Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Summer hours: Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Contact: Elizabeth "Peggy" Fussell, Lori Howard, Angie Fussell at SurfsideSportswearGifts.com or 910-328-4141.

About the owner, the history and the place

Surfside Sportswear & Gifts is a family-own business since 1976.

“I never dreamed of having a business,” Elizabeth “Peggy” Fussell said. 

The Fussells, originally from Wallace, had a weekend trailer at Blackbeards Campground (1963-1971) in Surf City and were frequent visitors to Topsail Island.

In 1971 they permanently moved to Surf City and five years later, Forest and Peggy, along with their two daughters Angie and Lori, opened Surfside Sportswear & Gifts. 

An electrician by trade, Forest worked out of the New River Drive shop where he stored supplies.  

Before the Fussells moved to Topsail Island, Peggy worked for a textile company in Wallace, where she learned about the quality of fabrics. With her knowledge of fabrics, she stocked the store with major brands that couldn't be found everywhere. 

Peggy wanted something for the ladies to do while the men were fishing on Topsail Island. She started selling craft supplies and the ladies would gather to create stained glass objects, macramé, cross stitch, candle wicking, and more. The crafting grew over five years. 

“We moved Forest to the back of the shop,” Peggy chuckled. “Eventually he moved his electrical supplies off the island.” 

More: Stylin' and profilin': Downtown Wilmington clothing store celebrates 50 years in business

More: This Brunswick soap business has built up a lather of customers

The Fussells added items of interest to everyone who visited the shop, selling gifts made of seashells, household items and T-shirts. Tourists and locals shopped Surfside Sportswear for glassware that could be monogrammed with initials or decals, a service provided on the premises.  

“There were very few places here to shop at that time,” Peggy said.

Attending a buyers' market in Charlotte, Peggy met the Jantzen swimwear sales representative and asked if he would sell $2,000 worth of swimwear to give her a chance. Not normally doing business with a small business such as hers, the representative did because he liked Peggy’s honesty.  

Around 2000, the Fussell Family added the back section to the store and added the second entrance from North Topsail Drive. 

Beside growing their business, the Fussell Family invested in the community. The family volunteered their time with the Surf City Volunteer Fire Department, Surf City Volunteer Rescue Squad, and other events promoting Topsail Island.

“We always say, ‘We dress you from head to toe, for on the beach or off to a wedding, and work in-between,’” Lori Howard said.  

More to know

Specialties:  Exclusive women's name brand clothing, ladies swimwear with cup sizes B-DD and home décor.

Most popular item:  Swimwear and clothing.

Why should a customer purchase your items ? The store is known for great quality clothing and swimwear ― name brands such as Tribal, Habitat, Multiples, Clara Sun Woo, Coco Reef, Jantzen and many more.

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The 10 Most-Exciting Yacht Debuts at the Palm Beach International Boat Show

Besides the debut of smaller vessels, more than 60 yachts over 100 feet will be at palm beach this week. it promises to be a banner event., howard walker, howard walker's most recent stories.

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For superyacht shoppers, the Palm Beach International Boat Show, kicking off its four-day run this week, is set to break records with more than 60 yachts over 100 feet long on display. Last year was also a banner year for superyachts at the show. 

Headliners will include the likes of the 295-foot Corsair Nero ,  the 278-foot Victorious by AKYacht, the 230-foot Turquoise-built Talisman C , and 213-foot Benetti Triumph among brokerage yachts, and in new yachts, the 113-foot Ocean Alexander Puro 35 is making its world debut.  

There are so many gleaming white vessels over 100 feet, in fact, that the fleet will be split between the Palm Harbor Marina at the main show site on the downtown West Palm Beach waterfront and the Safe Harbor Rybovich Marina two miles north. 

Now in its 42nd year, PBIBS will also showcase hundreds of models of dayboats, cruisers, and fishing boats, as well as marine accessories. Running from this Thursday through Sunday, the show coincides with the Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary art show, a fortuitous opportunity for yacht owners wanting to add new art to their collections.

Here are 10 must-see boats at this year’s show.

Corsair Yachts ‘Nero’

The undisputed star of this year’s Palm Beach show? That would be the 295-foot, classically styled superyacht Nero , built in 2007 and inspired by American financier J.P. Morgan’s legendary 1930s steamer Corsair IV . Nero ‘s attendance at PBIBS marks its return to the charter market after an extensive refit in 2021. Now better than new, the boat is being managed by Burgess. With weekly charter rates from $497,000, the vessel offers five-star accommodations for 12 guests in six cabins, with pampering from a crew of 20. Part of the refit included a full interior refresh by Italian interior designer Laura Pomponi, plus a major focus on wellness. That meant the construction of a new, state-of-the-art gym and spa, the assistance of a certified onboard trainer, a masseuse and beautician. After PBIBS, Nero will spend the winter in the Caribbean before returning to the Med for the summer season.

Ocean Alexander Puro 35P

Ocean Alexander is debuting the first of its new Puro superyacht series at PBIBS. The 113-foot Puro 35P comes from the drawing board of Italian designer Giorgio M. Cassetta and is a step back from the polarizing lines of OA’s recent Revolution and Explorer series with their bold, vertical bow designs. Aimed at long-distance cruising, the 35P can carry over 5,000 gallons of fuel and is powered by twin 2,000 hp MAN V12s for a 24-knot top speed. Twin 55kW Kohler generators can also keep the yacht powered at anchor for long periods. Other standout features include extensive glazing in the chiseled fiberglass hull, a forward deck plunge pool, and spacious accommodations for 10 guests. 

Think of it as the “starter” Sirena. Aimed at a younger demographic, the Turkish builder’s brand-new Sirena 48 is making its U.S. debut at PBIBS after a global reveal at last fall’s Cannes boat show. Such is its appeal that 27 hulls have already been sold, with 13 of the orders coming from North America. Looking like a scaled-down version of Sirena’s popular 58, its distinctive, trawler-style lines are from Argentinian designer Germán Frers. With more interior space than a typical 48-footer, the yacht offers three staterooms—plus a crew cabin—a spacious, light-filled salon, a large cockpit, an oversized flybridge, and a vast forward social area. Take your pick from twin 550 hp Cummins QSB, or 670 hp Volvo D11 turbo diesels. Or the builder is also offering hybrid power with twin 285 hp electric motors charged up by variable-speed generators that are good for a 30-mile battery-only range.

Feadship ‘Olympus’

Picture purchasing a classic 180-foot Feadship superyacht, and then getting a $10 million bill for a major refit. That was the case with Olympus , built by the Dutch masters at Feadship in 1996 to a design by Britain’s Andrew Winch and the celebrated naval architect Frits De Voogt. Sold in 2022, the new owner sent it to the Monaco Marine refit center in La Ciotat, France for a major makeover. It included overhauling the 2,600 hp Caterpillar engines and generators, repairs to the structure, substantial upgrades to the guest areas and crew quarters, and new paint throughout. With the work completed just last year, the vessel is said to be in mint condition. Offered jointly by brokers Fraser and Edmiston, Olympus has an asking price of $28.5 million. With accommodations for 16 guests in eight cabins, the boat’s highlights include two primary suites, tropical-spec air conditioning, and Palm Beach-chic decor.

Benetti ‘Triumph’

Italian yachting powerhouse Benetti is showing off its superyacht-building skills with the 213-foot Triumph . Delivered in 2021, this Giorgio M. Cassetta-designed steel-and-aluminum world girder features six decks, a 1,400-square-foot primary suite with outdoor terrace and adjoining lounge, a 750-square-foot beach club, and a touch-and-go helipad. What sets Triumph apart, however, is its lavish interior furnishings put together by the owner along with Benetti Interior Style and Monaco-based Green & Mingarelli Design. It includes pieces by French glassmaker Lalique, marble from Marfil, Statuario and Armani, furs, silk and wool carpets, plus a collection of cool black-and-white wildlife photographs by British fine art photographer David Yarrow. The pièce de résistance? That would be the owner’s Triumph Bonneville motorcycle displayed in the salon.

Fjord 39 XP/XL

Germany’s Fjord Yachts, part of the Hanse Group, has a new 39-foot day boat that it’s unveiling at the Palm Beach show. The 39 XP and XL keep all the bold design cues of the bigger Fjord 41 XP and XL, like a big, open cockpit, walkaround center console, vertical bow, mile-high windshield and stretched hardtop. As for the differences between the XP and XL, it’s all about power. The XL comes with a choice of twin 320hp Volvo D4 diesels, or bigger 440 hp D6 versions, both with Volvo stern drives. Likely more appealing to U.S. buyers will be the XP powered by twin 400 hp Mercury Verado V10 outboards giving a 50-knot top speed. Pricing starts at around $500,000.

Turquoise ‘Talisman C’

Chandeliers don’t come more dramatic than this. Cascading down the central spiral staircase of the Turkish-built, 231-foot superyacht Talisman C , this jaw-dropping piece of art comprises an array of multi-colored glass balls threaded on stainless-steel rods and illuminated by hanging fiber-optic strands. It’s the creation of Prague-based Crystal Caviar and is one of a number of glass installations on this sleek, low-profile superyacht. Built in 2011 by the Proteksan Turquoise shipyard, Talisman C was designed inside and out by London-based studio H2 Yacht Design, with naval architecture by Italy’s Hydro Tec. With cabins for 12 guests, one of its highlights is a huge primary suite, which boasts more crystal chandeliers and a private library. Twin 2,447 hp Caterpillar diesels give a top speed of 18 knots and a transatlantic range of 7,000 nautical miles at 12 knots. It’s listed with Burgess for $59.9 million. 

Sanlorenzo 44 ‘Kamakasa’

Delivered in 2020 and sold to a new buyer just last August, the 146-foot Sanlorenzo 44 Alloy Kamakasa will be for sale at PBIBS. The asking price, through the Italian Yacht Group, is $23.75 million. Lack of use might also be the issue here; the yacht’s twin 2,600 hp MTU V16 diesels have a mere 289 hours on the clock. Built in aluminum to a design by Rome-based Zuccon International Project, Kamakasa was the second hull in the Sanlorenzo 44 Alloy series. One of the top features is a primary suite that spans three levels and almost 1,600 square feet; it also comes with a private Jacuzzi, separate bathrooms, a walk-in closet, and a private study. The yacht’s lightweight construction and MTU power combine to deliver an impressive 20-knot top speed.

Bahama 41 GT2

As ultimate, reel-’em-in, fishing center consoles go, the Bahama 41 from West Palm Beach-based Bahama Boat Works is as hard-core as they come. But when owners kept asking for a little more comfort for the family, the builder responded. The result is the brand-new flagship 41 GT debuting at PBIBS. While the proven, wave-slicing hull stays the same, the cockpit layout is new. In place of the single bench seat, there are now three-across bucket seats with a second row behind. The wider console now has space for a pair of 22-inch Garmin screens, while the new extended hardtop features sun shades and even a rain shower. Outboard choices stay the same with either twin Mercury V12 600s, or four 400 hp Mercury V10s, good for a 65-knot-plus top speed. Pricing is from around $920,000.

Heesen ‘Book Ends’

Launched in 2022, this 164-foot Heesen is part of the Book Ends collection, owned by an American couple who have had more than 18 yachts with the same name. The exterior design of this Heesen was by Omega Architects, while Dutch studio Van Oossanen did the naval architecture. The yacht is part of Heesen’s fast cruising series, which is more efficient than other vessels its size, and can reach 23 knots at full speed with its MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines. The yacht is listed through Ocean Independence for 42 million Euro, or about $45.7 million.

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IRS: Never mind the myths; know the facts about receiving a Form 1099-K in 2024

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IR-2024-57, March 1, 2024

WASHINGTON — To help taxpayers with filing, the Internal Revenue Service today debunked some common myths to help taxpayers understand what to do with Form 1099-K .

Following feedback from partners and to help avoid taxpayer confusion, the IRS  announced in Nov. 2023, that the reporting threshold for Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions , would not change for 2023. The reporting threshold requirements remain over $20,000 in payments and over 200 transactions.

The IRS continues to see misinformation circulating about why taxpayers may or may not have received a Form 1099-K. Here are some common scenarios involving these forms. More information is also available at IRS.gov for what to do with Form 1099-K and frequently asked questions .

1099-K facts vs myths

Myth: People will get a Form 1099-K from friends and family sending them personal payments.

Fact: Payments from friends and family should generally not be reported on a Form 1099-K. Form 1099-K reports payments for goods or services and should not report personal payments like rent, dinner, travel and other gifts or reimbursements gifts, no matter the amount. Generally, in payment apps, the default is personal payments unless the sender designates that they’re purchasing goods or services, or it is designated a business account.

Myth: If taxpayers didn't receive a Form 1099-K, they don't have to report income.

Fact: According to federal law, all income is taxable unless it is specifically excluded by tax law. Taxpayers should report any profits from selling goods or services, regardless of if they receive a Form 1099-K.

Myth: Individuals won’t get a Form 1099-K if they sold goods or services under the $20,000 and 200 transactions payment threshold set for 2023 and previous tax years.

Fact: The 2023 federal reporting threshold of over $20,000 and 200 transactions is a reporting requirement, but companies may still send a Form 1099-K for goods or services payments that are less than that amount. Payment apps and marketplaces that have held backup withholding for a payee during calendar year 2023 must file a Form 945 and a Form 1099-K. Also, their state may have a lower reporting threshold, which could result in receiving a Form 1099-K, even if the total gross payments they received in the year did not exceed the federal reporting threshold.

Myth: Taxpayers owe taxes on the gross amount reported on the Form 1099-K.

Fact: The form provides the gross, or total amount of payments individuals got per app or marketplace. Just because a payment is reported on a Form 1099-K does not mean it is taxable. Taxpayers will need to use the form and other records to determine their actual tax liability when they file their tax return.

More information is available to help determine an individual’s tax obligations at IRS.gov What to do with Form 1099-K .

Myth: People can only get a 1099-K if they’re running a business.

Fact: People may receive a Form 1099-K from payment apps or online marketplaces they used to sell goods or services, or accepted payments from a bank card. See Form 1099-K FAQs on Fact Sheet 2024-03 PDF for more information.

Myth: People don’t need to do anything with their Form 1099-K.

Fact: Individuals should use the information on the Form 1099-K with their other tax records to determine their correct tax owed. See Understanding your Form 1099-K and visit the Form 1099-K frequently asked questions for more information.

Someone who receives a Form 1099-K when they shouldn't have should take these steps .

Myth: There’s nothing available to help individuals understand their Form 1099-K.

Fact: The IRS has a variety of sources to help people understand their form and report their taxes accurately. See IRS.gov Understanding your Form 1099-K , What to do with Form 1099-K and Form 1099-K frequently asked questions .

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Cat Who Brings Unconventional Gifts to Owner Wins Pet of the Week

This week, we have seen a cat put under "house arrest" over aggressive behavior toward groomers and the way another feline stole the show at their owner's house party. We have also been on the hunt for showstopping animals to feature in our weekly Pet of the Week.

Whether you have a well-behaved dachshund or a troublesome tortoise, we want to feature our readers' pets in our lineup.

Remember to follow the instructions at the end of this article if you have funny video or stories about your pet.

This week's winner is Monkey, an indoor cat who lives with owners Miguel and Michelle Gilly.

"Monkey is an inside cat," Miguel told Newsweek . And, as a result of his indoor lifestyle, he has developed a habit that always brings a smile to his owners' faces.

"Instead of bringing us gifts of rodents or birds, he chooses to bring us random furniture," said Miguel.

In a video shared with Newsweek , Monkey's skills are clear—he wraps something around the furniture before dragging it diligently to his owners.

"[He is] such a character," Miguel said. "We love him so."

• Shelter finds terrified dog and her puppies tied up and abandoned outside
• Woman mortified after she spots what golden retriever is playing with
• Cat returned to shelter after just 4 days finally finds true forever home

Our first finalist this week is Creed, a 3-year-old black-and-white French bulldog who loves to snuggle and play fetch.

Living in upstate New York, Creed will turn 4 on March 31.

"He loves to take long walks in the park and play with children," his owner Siara Lynn Ramos told Newsweek .

When it comes to food, Creed is clear about his likes and dislikes, too. "He dislikes carrots and peas, but greatly enjoys bananas and blueberries," Ramos said.

Our next finalist this week is the much-loved Drayley—also known as Dray Dray or Spoiled Princess Pup by Marilyn Wells, who purchased the pup for her granddaughter.

"She believes all blankets in the house are hers to command," Wells told Newsweek .

"No matter where in the house you try and snuggle under a blanket to watch a show or read, she comes flying and roots and squirms until the silly human realizes its hers," Wells said.

At 9 years old, it is clear that Drayley enjoys her pampered lifestyle: "She identifies as a human princess and prefers to not be considered as a dog," added Wells.

Last but not least this week is Sydney, a mixed-breed dog who was initially fostered from an animal shelter by owner Lee Ryan Owens.

"As foster failures, we added Sydney to our herd. We couldn't let her go," Owens told Newsweek .

Now, Sydney rules the roost with her four fur-siblings. Alongside a picture of her donning a stylish sheriff's hat, her owner said that Sydney is the newest sheriff in town.

"She keeps a keen eye out during the daytime, ensuring no birds or squirrels come too close," said Owens. "At night, she's a sentry watching for signs of opossums or raccoons in her yard."

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to [email protected] with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.

Uncommon Knowledge

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

About the writer

Alice Gibbs is a Newsweek Senior Internet Trends & Culture Reporter based in the U.K. For the last two years she has specialized in viral trends and internet news, with a particular focus on animals, human interest stories, health, and lifestyle.

Alice joined Newsweek in 2022 and previously wrote for The Observer, Independent, Dazed Digital and Gizmodo. Languages: English.

You can get in touch with Alice by emailing [email protected].

To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, Click here.

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