‘Tis the season for holiday shopping! There are plenty of boat-themed gifts that your friends and family would surely appreciate unwrapping this year. As experts in the industry, we’ve sorted through various gifts for boaters and assembled our favorites below.
Whether they are fishing fanatics, watersport enthusiasts, or weekend cruisers – we have a boat-themed gift for everyone on your list.
The Top 15 Boating Gifts
This boater gift guide has a little something for everyone. Here are the best gifts for boaters to purchase this holiday season.
1. A Boat Lift
Keeping your boat on a lift doesn’t just eliminate the need for bottom paint or mooring lines – it gives you peace of mind. Boat lifts are ideal for private dock owners looking for more security.
Additionally, many marinas allow their customers to put lifts in their slips. Just know there’s usually a long-term commitment involved, and the marina may retain ownership of the lift afterward.
See all Docking Equipment & Anchoring Accessories.
2. Boat Electronics
Give the gift of enhanced navigation with a new MFD. Or the gift of a successful fishing trip with a new fish finder. Or the gift of efficient communication with a new VHF radio. Because marine electronics constantly evolve, an upgraded system is a fantastic boating gift.
See all Marine Electronics & Navigation Instruments.
3. Fishing Rods and Reels
Shopping for an angler? You can’t go wrong with some new rods and reels. Whether they’re a freshwater fisherman or prefer saltwater, there are various options – all at different price points.
See all Fishing Gear, Tackle, & Equipment.
4. Boat Show Tickets
Boat show season is just around the corner! And boat show tickets make for a fun and unique gift. Attendees will be immersed in the exhilarating world of boating – exploring the latest boat models, cutting-edge marine technology, and nautical activities for the whole family.
Whether they're a boat owner or a novice eager to learn more, the Discover Boating boat show is a captivating experience that will leave them inspired and ready for their next nautical journey.
5. Emergency Signaling Devices
There’s no better way to tell a boat owner you love them than by getting them boat safety gear. Plus, there are a variety of emergency signaling devices to choose from – from electronic flares to satellite text messengers to EPIRBs.
Some emergency signaling devices — like Garmin’s inReach Satellite Messenger — even allow you to send text messages via satellite to stay in touch when you’re far from land.
See all Safety Equipment.
6. Tow Toys
There’s no getting around it – tow toys are just plain fun. That’s why wakeboards, towable tubes, water skis, and kneeboards are all included in this boater gift guide.
Remember that different tow toys offer completely different watersport experiences. So, even if there’s already one on board, don’t hesitate to gift your watersport enthusiast another.
See all Water Sports Equipment & Accessories.
7. A Boat Grill
If your family enjoys eating on the water, investing in a high-quality boat grill is a fantastic way to elevate the experience. You could also include additional cooking items like a picnic basket, bottle opener, nautical-themed serving trays, and plastic utensils.
See all Boat Cooking Tools & Galley Supplies.
8. A Bilge Pump
While it might not be the sexiest gift for boaters, few boating items are more critical than a bilge pump. Since most boats only have one pump, adding a backup is always a good idea. Unsure where to start? We like Attwood’s Sahara Mk2 because it eliminates air lock.
See all Boat Construction, Service, & Repair Items.
9. Safety Harnesses
Sailboat owners have their own unique needs, and safety harnesses are one of them. Particularly if your sailor is into racing, a strong, light, and comfortable harness is a gift that will be much appreciated.
See all Sailboat Accessories.
10. Boat Trailer Guide-On Bunks
Do you know someone who takes three or four tries to get their rig on its trailer? If so, they’ll love a pair of boat-trailer guide-on bunks. The vertical posts help the boat self-center, ensuring the bow is in the proper position every time.
See all Boat Trailer Parts & Accessories.
11. Fishing Rod Holders
It’s a fact: anglers love rod holders on their rigs. And no matter how many they have, more is always better. So, find the flush mounts, rail mounts, or rocket launchers that will fit your angler’s boat and start wrapping.
See all Boat Parts, Marine Hardware, & Original Equipment.
12. Waterproof Dry Bag
Every boater needs a way to keep their gear dry. And that’s why waterproof dry bags are fantastic gifts for boaters. They are ideal for safeguarding phones, wallets, house keys, electronics, and anything else your boater wants to bring on board.
Here are 10 Boat Bags to Pack for Your Next Boating Trip.
13. Marine Binoculars
This boating gift idea is great for spotting wildlife, landmarks, or other vessels. Waterproof and fog-proof models like the Nikon OceanPro Global Compass are ideal for boating conditions.
Learn more about GPS, Fish Finder & Waterproof Binoculars.
14. Inflatable Paddleboards
A paddleboard makes an excellent gift for anyone who enjoys exploring the waters beyond their vessel. Plus, the inflatable versions are compact, lightweight, and portable – ideal for bringing on board.
Explore more Essential Boating Gear for Summer.
15. Floating Sunglasses
How many boaters have lost their sunglasses in the sea? The answer is a whole lot. However, giving your boater a pair of floating sunglasses ensures that will never happen again. If you can’t find a pair of floating sunglasses they’ll like? A pair of floating Croakies will do the trick.
Browse the Top 7 Polarized Sunglasses for Fishing.
Bonus Gift: A Brand New Boat
Do you want to give your loved one the ultimate nautical gift? Check out our Boat Finder tool and get them a brand-new boat!
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Gifts for Boaters
Now that you know what to buy, here are some tips for choosing gifts for boaters:
- Consider their personal preferences and needs. Is the gift recipient into sailing? Fishing? Watersports? Or simply cruising? While this might seem obvious, tailoring your gift to their preferred boating activities is essential.
- Add a personalized touch. If you can, personalizing your gift — adding their boat’s name, for example — makes it extra special.
- Prioritize durability. Remember that anything you give them will be braving boating conditions. Therefore, make sure it can withstand being exposed to the elements.
Ultimate Boater Gift Guide 2024
Well, there you have it, folks! After scouring the internet’s virtual shelves, we’ve determined these are the top 15 gifts for boaters to give this holiday season. Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned sailor, watersport enthusiast, or deep-sea angler, we’re confident you’ll find something for everyone on your list. Happy shopping!
