30 Best Gifts For Boaters

The holiday season is upon us again, and it’s that time of the year to hunt for gifts. Look no further if you know a boater or sailor and are searching for memorable souvenirs to give them.

This article will look at the top 30 gifts and accessories you can give new boat owners, anglers or sailors.

We cover all gift ideas, including the best in technology, apparel, functional tools, and equipment, in this gift guide. One point to note, it’s probably best to ask them what they would like.

The field of marine equipment is extensive, and they may already own some items. So, it’s a good idea to check with them about what would be a welcome addition to their boats.

Best Gifts For Boaters And Sailors 

1. Sailing Gloves

Constantly handling ropes and battling the sea on a boat can take its toll on a sailor’s hands. The best way to combat this- is sailing gloves. Warm, waterproof, and protective, they are ideal for long voyages where you know the conditions can be challenging. They are a great gift idea! Get your favourite sailor a handy pair of gloves as a gift so that they stay dry and safe, even during the poorest of weather. Some versions have added flexibility but usually come without the full range of protection, so watch out for these.

2. Sailing Boots 

Bringing ordinary shoes with you on a trip can be bad, mainly due to the constantly wet conditions. Squelching and uncomfortable, they can reduce the trip to a difficult journey. Getting a solid pair of sailing boots is the ideal gift. They are waterproof and super comfortable, so rest assured they will see you in good stead.

3. Waterproof Socks

In the freezing conditions routinely encountered at sea, it is common to see toes going blue with hypothermia. Every sailor in that situation wishes for a thick pair of waterproof socks to keep them snug. Give your favourite boater these pairs of socks that you know will keep their feet warm. Available in different sizes, there are several choices to make for wherever they may travel to.

4. Sunglasses

Sailing at sea is prone to give boaters serious eye troubles. The constantly glistening sun on the waters makes it tough to navigate correctly. Gift the sailor you know with this luxurious pair of sunglasses meant to keep the Sun and all its harmful rays at bay. Easy to pocket when not in use, it’s a classic look that never fades away. Additionally, anyone wearing these sunglasses at sea or on the docks cuts a dashing figure!

5. Marine Binoculars

One handiest equipment sailors often bring with them on long voyages is the binoculars. They are light, portable, and great for picking out objects in the distance. They are of different focusing ranges and vary in cost, so be sure to have an eye on your budget while choosing one. This is an ideal gift for a sailor who spends extended periods at sea.

6. Sailor’s Knife

A sailor is always surrounded by two things- the vast ocean and ropes. Any boater will have to deal with different types of ropes daily and must be an expert in cutting them when required. For this, we recommend the sailor’s heavy-duty knife. It will easily cut through even the toughest of ropes, from cables to the mooring. Remember to include a sharpener as a gift because the constant wear and tear can dull the blade. It works perfectly for cutting open other everyday items as well.

7. Waterproof Bag

Keeping things dry on a boat can be a Herculean task, especially for those seeking adventure. That’s why getting a durable dry bag is the best gift for a sailor. Everything from personal belongings to small equipment and the first aid kit stays dry and in perfect working condition. They range in various sizes and have different attachments, so check those out too. And when not in use, they are compact and can be easily stowed away.

8. Nautical Keychains

Confused about what to gift a boater? Wondering what would make the perfect gift but confused about what he would enjoy? We’ve come to your rescue with an all-time classic! Keychains meant for the open seas! With this gift, impress your favourite sailor with your thoughtfulness. Boaters are known to own multiple sets of keys- from the cabin and machinery to standard cupboard keys. Help them organize these nautical theme keychains.

9. Knot Tying Reference Guide

Knot tying is an essential seaman’s skill at sea, especially when dealing with anchors. Give your loved ones the gift of knowledge with this detailed reference kit that keeps them hooked for days. It is sure to be the perfect gift for a boater with some of the most common knots that will see them through the harshest weather conditions. Just make sure not to keep any loose rope around!

10. Hammock

There’s nothing more picturesque than lying on a boat, surrounded by the ocean, in a hammock. And that particular boater in your life will thank you for gifting them with an easy perfect hammock. It can be folded up and stowed away quickly and has added attachments. Now, they can spend their nights away from home under the stars. A hammock makes for a perfect boat accessory.

11. Thermos Flask

Fuel and electricity are precious resources onboard a boat, and boaters cannot afford to reheat their beverages repeatedly. That’s where a handy portable stainless steel flask or tumbler comes into play. Just pour their favourite drink into it, and it stays at the best temperature for everyone to enjoy.

12. Cooler Ice Chest

Small boats may not have the luxury of chilled storage space. But this doesn’t mean sailors can’t enjoy their favourite cold drink after a day’s work. By gifting them with a portable and compact ice chest, they will still be able to enjoy their favourite beverages. There are different available sizes, so pick one that best fits your boat. The internal reflection coating keeps beverages and other items at the ideal temperature so they can be relished.

13. Self-Drying Shoes

Everyone hates having wet shoes. They squelch, can leave you with sore feet, and is the first step to contracting infections. This problem is compounded further for boaters and sailors who have to spend extended periods in the water. That’s why getting them these quick-drying shoes can be a blessing. With advanced designs that rapidly drain away any stagnant water, it is guaranteed to keep your feet dry. They can be stowed away quickly and are available in both lacing and Velcro versions.

14. Swiss Army Knife

When sailing, a boater often finds himself short of a fork, a spoon, or many other small tools. And carrying them individually can be cumbersome and consume a lot of space. The Swiss Army Knife is the perfect way around this. Equipped with different gadgets that fit snugly inside your pocket, it is handy to have around. This will be an excellent gift for adventurous boaters, from eating utensils to a knife and other miniature tools. There are different varieties to choose from, along with the various combinations of tools. To cut through thick cables and ropes, we recommend this knife’s heavy-duty and sturdier version on gift #6.

15. Travelling Coffee Press

There’s nothing like a mug of steaming coffee to help you kick start your day. And this luxury should extend to even when you’re away from home, sailing on your boat. This travelling coffee press is guaranteed to get you out of bed in the morning. Portable and easy to use, you can now have your favourite blends while far away from home. All it takes is a charging port and some water, and Hey presto! Your coffee is ready.

16. Engraved Compass

This engraved compass is the ideal gift for the adventurous sailor you know, who is ready to face anything he encounters at sea. With intriguing engravings on the case, it certainly gives off cool nautical vibes and is sure to be a massive hit with all adventure-loving boaters. When at sea, it acts as a navigational aid. While at home, it is an excellent piece to have on your wall and a great conversation piece.

17. Waterproof Watch

Time is essential for a sailor, especially as you travel across various time zones and regions. Keeping up can be quite a challenge. We’ve got you covered, though, with a waterproof watch. For sailors and casual boaters alike, it’s sure to be a great hit. It is very stylish, but the best part is waterproof! That means less worrying about the perils of the seas and their harmful effects on your timepiece. It can remain submerged to high depths, ensuring that even after a swim, it’s still in perfect working condition.

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18. Waterproof Camera

The sights of Earth’s oceans are awe-inspiring, and these moments must be captured to share with friends and family. A waterproof camera is the best gift for boaters who love travelling to new locations. With the full range of functionality and added protection against damage, it is sure to be a handy way to keep track of journeys and special memories. The camera can also be paired with a stand and adjustable lenses, so check those out.

19. Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

What better than hearing music while at sea? But sailors are often afraid of spoiling speakers by getting them accidentally soaked. Things are bound to get a bit wet while sailing, but these waterproof speakers ensure that your particular boater doesn’t have to forgo their favourite music. Now, they can listen to their favourite tunes while enjoying the calm serenity of the sea! Available in different sizes, they range from smaller versions that can fit in a backpack to a full-size stereo guaranteed to keep the party alive while away at sea.

20. Waterproof Phone Cover

This waterproof phone case is a sailor’s dream come true! It not only protects against wetness and humidity but also allows the full range of usage and functionality of the phone without worrying about factors like sea spray, accidentally being dropped, and pretty much anything expected during a rough voyage. Available in various colours and with cool sticker options, it will make an excellent gift for the special sailor in your life.

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21. Portable Mini Movie Projector

Spending time away from family can be hard for sailors, and the long hours can make it tiring. But by gifting them with a handy mini-movie projector, you give them away to keep busy and enjoy. As this device is portable, it can be taken on any voyage and requires a power connection to keep it up and to run. Thanks to waterproofing, sailors can now play their favourite movies without fear of the equipment getting wet or damaged.

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22. eBook Reader / Kindle

Books are an excellent way to relax while at sea. But there’s a very high chance that they may accidentally get wet or damaged. Since you can’t waterproof books, why not gift a Kindle with a waterproof cover? It is lightweight, easy to carry around, and can store many more books than you can carry with you. This is why it makes the perfect companion when a sailor wants to sit in a corner and read their favourite book. With Kindle’s newer versions, you can read amazing titles worldwide, in dozens of languages, without any extra onboard weight.

23. GPS Fish Finder

One of the most impressive sights while at sea is schools of fish skimming through the water. But, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that many sailors never get to see. That’s why you should gift this Fish Finder a susceptible GPS mechanism to trace even the smallest marine life. You can set it up on the deck or integrate it with your existing GPS. High precision and real-time updates make it an essential piece of gear for any enthusiastic boater.

24. Marine Waterproof Navigational GPS

Getting lost on the road can be tough, but there are people and road signs to put you back on track. What do you do if you get lost on the high seas? Fear not for your loved ones by gifting them with this accurate and precise navigational GPS. With a host of features available from anywhere in the world, it will show them the path even in difficult situations. It’s easy to mount and use, is waterproof, and can withstand water pressure even tens of meters below the surface. It is one of the essential gear any sailor should have with them.

25. Portable Solar Charger

While at sea, there may be no quick and straightforward method to generate electricity. There are generator sets, but they run on harmful fossil fuels that are likely to foul the environment. Gift this handy and multipurpose solar charger to a boater to ensure that appliances and equipment can be kept charged. With adapters and extension cables, it can power up most gadgets, mainly smartphones, and are handy for boat enthusiasts.

And all without polluting the environment!

26. Power Bank (Solar/Waterproof)

When sailing on your boat for several days at a stretch, having enough charge on your phone can be challenging. It’s the main point of contact with your loved ones back on the shore but has excruciatingly short battery life. A gift that particular boater in your life with a power bank so you can stay connected. Capable of handling multiple charging sockets and with a quick recharge option, it occupies very little space and can be stored quickly enough.

27. Boat Scruff Erasers

Every sailor knows that boating inevitably results in wear, tear, and scuff marks. It can turn your boat into a sore sight, from shoe skids to fishing pole marks and accidental brushes with the dock. That’s why the perfect gift would be scruff erasers! Just activate them with a bit of water, and they can wipe away nearly every type of dirt mark. They use enhanced dirt-removing sponges to remove even the toughest of stains.

28. Nautical Bottle Opener

While at sea, every sailor loves to have a fridge stocked with a few drinks. Having a bottle opener with them ensures that after a day spent toiling away at sea, they will still be able to enjoy their favourite suds. To top that, it doubles as an excellent home decor piece that will surely be a great conversation opener. It’s small enough to carry discretely but robust sufficient to handle the larger bottles. Even if there’s an occasion to celebrate, the bottle opener has your special sailor covered.

29. Books on Boating and Sailing

While experienced sailors and seafarers may have extensive experience under their belt, many casual boaters also wish to learn. While courses may be tough to take, gifting them books related to boating and sailing will be the ultimate gift to help them indulge in their hobby. Offered on different topics and subjects, including mechanics, electronics, seamanship, piloting, and DIY repair, you have a wide variety of books to choose from for your perfect gift. Add a few bookmarks so they can pick up from wherever they left during their last journey.

30. Sailing-Themed Leather Notebook/Diary

Staying away from land can be a tough choice to make for sailors. At the same time, it provides them the chance to experience exciting sights from around the world. That makes this piece the perfect companion for sailors, who have to be away from land and loved ones, and also need to express themselves in the written word. It is leather-covered and follows a nautical theme, making it the ideal gift for the sailor you know. From pensive thoughts to stories of their journeys and adventures, it will surely be a memorable and valuable gift for them.

Over to you now…

If you know some gifts for boaters we might have missed, drop us a message in the comments section below.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What other gifts can be bought for a sailor?

You can gift a nice cup holder to prevent beverage spillage, a portable USB socket, a bungee dock line with foam floats, Garmin striker vivid fish finders, sailboat tape and much more.

2. What should every boat have onboard?

Every boat should have lifejackets, personal floatation devices, fire extinguishers and visual and sound signalling devices that can be used during an emergency. It should also have seal tape and other equipment that can be used to temporarily repair the boat in case of an accident or collision.

3. What does a magic eraser do on a boat?

Magic erasers also make a great gift. They can easily remove stains from vinyl floors, siding and boat seats. They can also eliminate dirt and grease stains from decks and walkways.

4. How do you wish good luck to a sailor?

It is common to use the phrase, ‘May you have fair winds and following seas’ to wish good luck to a sailor. However, certain symbols also bring good luck, as per legends. These include a black cat, a four-petal clove and a horseshoe, the cross or images of saints.

5. What is a must-have on a boat or vessel?

A first-aid kit is a must for every boater, sailor or marine enthusiast for safety purposes. It should have all the medicines you might need in an emergency. You can have a customised one if you suffer from chronic allergies or asthma-related ailments.

You may also like to read –

• 12 Sailing Books For Beginners
• Top 11 Books On Boating
• 10 Best Sailing Watches
• 7 Cool LEGO® Ship Sets Everyone Must Have

Disclaimer: The author’s views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of Marine Insight. Data and charts, if used, in the article have been sourced from available information and have not been authenticated by any statutory authority. The author and Marine Insight do not claim it to be accurate nor accept any responsibility for the same. The views constitute only the opinions and do not constitute any guidelines or recommendations on any course of action to be followed by the reader.

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