By Grace Healy
Last updated on
Any kind of water-based activity requires special equipment, so it can be hard to choose the right things. This is why we have put together this collection of useful and thoughtful gift ideas for boaters, which will not only make your life easier, but will make their next sailing, kayaking, or fishing trip even more enjoyable. And for the times when they’re on terra firma, there are gifts for the home that they’ll actually want, too.
Life Preserver Ring
This personalized life preserver is for decoration purposes only, which is just as well as it looks too lovely to use. Made from Styrofoam, it comes personalized with any names, dates, or 2 line message (up to 24 characters) and is perfect for hanging on the wall of a pool house.
Atomic Bear Paracord Bracelet
If you’re buying for any adventurer, whether it’s on land or by sea, this bracelet could save their life. Combining five of the most essential tools any survivalist could need, this adjustable bracelet includes a firestarter, compass, emergency whistle, knife, and 12 feet of paracord which could just prove invaluable.
The Nautical Origins of Everyday Expressions Book
Many of today’s well-known phrases can be traced back to naval beginnings, and this book explains many of them. With 200 words and phrases included, Three Sheets to the Wind explores the origins of these classic expressions and will fascinate wordsmiths and seafarers alike.
Boat Hair Don’t Care Baseball Cap
Whether it’s from the wind or the salty air, boating isn’t conducive to having a neat hairstyle. With this trucker cap she can show the world that it doesn’t bother her. There are four designs to choose from, but each one declares ‘Boat Hair Don’t Care’ along with pink or blue detailing.
Mariner Cheese Board and Tool Set
The ideal way to serve cheese either on the boat or on land, this beautiful cheese board and tool set will make a fabulous gift for boaters. Made from durable rubberwood, the revolving board is in the shape of a ship’s wheel, and includes four handy tools that hide away on the side.
Captain's Word Brass Sign
They can remind their workmates, shipmates, friends and family exactly who’s boss with this fun brass sign. Fully lacquered so it can be used indoors or out, this handsome plaque comes with wall or door fixings, and reads ‘The Captain’s Word is Law’ along with a nautical anchor.
Personalized Boat Mat
Safe for all kinds of boats including teak, this boat mat will add a cozy finishing touch to their pride and joy. Available in three sizes and three colors, the mat comes with a non-skid back that won’t leave a mark, and can be personalized with ‘Welcome Aboard’ plus the boat’s name.
Stemless Boat Wine Glasses
A wonderful set to add to their boat’s collection, this quartet of stemless wine glasses has a subtle but stunning nautical theme. Made from a durable BPA-free plastic with the look of real glass, these glasses are each etched with an elegant seafaring symbol – an anchor, compass, life ring, and wheel.
Island Reef Coasters
Remind them of the ocean even when they’re firmly landlocked by giving them this set of four striking drinks coasters. Handmade using a beautiful tropical blue resin and real beach sand, these coasters each contain tiny silhouettes of some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures.
Custom Love Boat Portrait
This fun portrait makes the ideal gift for a couple who messing about on the water. Sitting together in a tiny rowing boat, this couple can be customized to resemble the people you know and love, and can be ordered already framed, or left unframed so you can choose your own.
Seascape Cast Currency Sculpture
The intricate detail on this Seascape Sculpture is even more remarkable when you realize that the tiny boats are hand cut from coins before being cast in bronze. Mounted on brass tubing, the boats and the waves appear to be floating on water, a feeling boat lovers will instantly appreciate.
Row Boat Serving Bowl
This superb salad server will bring the joy of boating to even the most landlocked dinner party or barbeque. It’s made from aluminum ‘wooden planks’ to give it its finished sheen, and comes with a pair of sheesham wood serving utensil oars, which sit prettily in their oarlocks when not in use.
Coastal Serving Board
This stunning serving board will add an instant coastal vibe to any dinner party, whether it’s formal or informal. Not designed for cutting on, this board is made from maple wood and features the most remarkable resin detail that will make them feel as though they’re picnicking on the beach.
DeckMate 6-in-1 Boating Tool
There’s no doubt about it, sailing can be hard work, and as such, it requires a whole bunch of specialized tools. Save hassle and space with this 6-in-1 boating tool, which houses deck keys, shackle key, zipper pull, hex tool and screwdriver in one handy non-slip instrument.
Weber Portable Propane Grill
Compact and portable, this grill is ideal for taking on their next river or sea-faring adventure. Arriving fully assembled, this grill runs on Propane gas and features one stainless steel burner and porcelain-enamelled cast-iron cooking grates. With an easy-start ignition, it’s ideal for beach and river-side cook-outs.
125 Piece Marine Tool Set
Like any vehicle, boats can and will break down and go wrong. Make sure they’re equipped to deal with boating DIY with this GreatNeck 125 Piece Marine Tool Set. With ratchets, sockets, hacksaw, pliers, and more included, the whole set comes in a waterproof case that actually floats should the worst happen.
Captain & First Mate Hats
Make sure they know their roles with this pair of matching hats. Made from 100% cotton so they’re durable but cool, one of the caps comes embroidered with ‘Captain’ on the front, while the other reads ‘First Mate’, along with an attractive golden anchor motif. Available in black or white.
Funny Boating T-Shirt
While sailing is, for the most part, a relaxing hobby, there are certain times when it can really cause tempers to flare. This hilarious t-shirt comes in five colors, and is printed with a large white anchor motif, along with an apology that reads ‘Sorry for What I Said While Docking the Boat’.
Boat Gadget
The less stuff they carry onto the boat, the better, which is why this Boat Gadget is so useful. Doing the job of ten individual tools, this gadget incorporates a bottle opener, corkscrew, plug wrench, whistle, gas cap and key, fishing line cutter and more into one handy handheld tool.
3 Bottle Insulated Wine Tote Cooler Bag
If leisurely trips out in the boat are on the cards for a boater you know, this insulated tote bag will prove invaluable. Available in four colors and designs (including nautical blue and white stripes) the tote can hold three full-size wine bottles and comes with a handy corkscrew opener.
Heartland Saint Brendan Protect Us Boat Plaque
This plaque will look stunning on their boat, and it comes supplied with two mounting screws to make it super easy. Made from brass, this plaque is made in the shape of a ship’s helm, and features the figure of Saint Brendan – also known as The Navigator – along with a short blessing.
Ship's Log
This Ship’s Log will make a really practical gift for boaters as it covers 5 logs in one, meaning they don’t need loads of extra paperwork lying around. With a Ship’s Log and Cruising Log, this book also covers Vessel Inventory, Fluid Changes & Fills, and Maintenance, Repairs & Upgrades.
Nautical Knot Tying Kit
Tying knots is an essential part of sailing, and it can take time to learn all the different knots needed. This Nautical Knot Tying Kit will speed up the process, as they can practice the art anywhere. Covering 20 most-used knots, the kit includes waterproof instruction cards, cords, and cleat.
Laichow Braid Boater Hat
Few items of men’s clothing are more reminiscent of a gentler age than the classic boater hat. Made from 100% Laichow straw, this charming hat includes a twill sweatband inside to keep him looking and feeling cool, as well as a two-tone stripe grosgrain band and bow.
Boat Scuff Erasers
If their boat is their pride and joy and they can’t bear to see any scuff marks on it, give them this set of three Boat Erasers. Free from bleach or other harsh chemicals, these erasers work like magic at removing marks on deck, console, and seats, as well as the interior.
AIRHEAD Dockline
With a built-in bungee cord concealed within the rope, this dockline acts as a shock absorber, protecting the boat from bumps and scrapes. With two foam floats situated along the length of the line, there are also sliding adjusters to ensure the loops fit over whatever cleat is available.
Custom Map Tide Clock
Very clever and a great conversation piece, this clock measure the ebb and flow of the tide rather than time. Custom printed with a coastline or waterway of your choice, this clock is divided into high and low tide, and the hours leading up to them.
Personalized Family Canoe Art
You can choose from 2 to 14 characters to include in this fun and alternative family portrait. Customized with clothes, hair color and style, and skin tone, there are even options to include the family pet, with each character being accompanied by their name and a place that holds special meaning.
Lake Topography Art
Give them a gift to remind them of their favorite lake with this beautiful topographical artwork. Framed in cherry wood, each 3D map can be made in a single or multi-layer format from painted maple plywood and shows water depths as well as surrounding landmarks, towns, and roads.
YETI Roadie 20 Cooler
They can stay hydrated and cool while off on a day’s sailing with the YETI Roadie 20. Designed with extra-thick insulated walls, this cooler is virtually indestructible and can accommodate up to 14 cans, while keeping ice icy thanks to the 2 inches of PermaFrost insulation.
Sperry Men's Sea Kite Sport Moc Boat Shoe
Half moccasin and half sports shoe, the Sea Kite offers all the comfort and versatility of a deck shoe, with the performance of those worn on the track. Available in a variety of colors, from Sudan Tan to Gray with orange detail, these shoes are a must have for boaters.
Funny Boat Shirt
T-shirts make a great gift idea for boaters as they always need comfortable clothing for when they’re out and about on the water. This funny tee is super soft and made from ringspun jersey cotton for a relaxed fit, and comes with a funny boating slogan on the front.
ReelSonar Bluetooth Smart Fish Finder
Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, the iBobber will let them find fish wherever they go. Using an iPhone or Android device, users can map out locations, water depths, species, water temperature and more, and even share on social media with their other fishing buddies.
SailorBags Wallet
Made from sailcloth, this wallet is ideal for sailing and boating as, unlike leather, it can be washed in the machine to get rid of salt stains and tide marks. Less bulky than a standard wallet, this one sits comfortably in a back pocket, making it a more comfortable fit.
JBL Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Now they can have some tunes when they’re messing about on the water, thanks to the JBL FLIP 4. With wireless Bluetooth streaming and 12 hours playing time, the Flip 4 is waterproof and perfect for all-weather playing, and even allows for conference calls, and Siri or Google Now activation.
Row Boat Serving Bowl with Wood Serving Utensils
This salad serving bowl makes a fun and functional gift idea for boaters. Crafted from silver-plated aluminum in a high-shine finish, the rowing boat also comes with a pair of oars (serving utensils) which have been carved from beautiful sheesham wood and sit in the brackets when not in use.
Lake Life Hoodie
Perfect for when they want a cold one but need to keep their hands free in between sips, this Lake Life hoodie acts as a helping hand. With a hidden neoprene bottle holder concealed inside the pocket, there is also an attached bottle opener for added convenience.
Boat Cleaner Microfiber Sponge Kit
Space is at a premium on boats, and the smaller they are the less room they have. Help them keep theirs shipshape with this cleaning kit, which includes a collapsible bucket for easy storage, as well as chenille and microfiber sponges, and a lint-free cleaning cloth inside a handy bag.
Ray-Ban Wayfarer Polarized Sunglasses
Sunlight is intensified when it bounces off water, so a good pair of shades is essential. The New Wayfarer from Ray-Ban is as stylish as ever and comes in a range of colors and styles, but features 100% UV protection, meaning their eyes will be protected without compromise.
Nikon Zoom Binoculars
You get a totally different viewpoint from the river, lake, or sea to the one you get on dry land, and it would be a shame to miss all the wonderful sights. These binoculars are both lightweight and ergonomic, and offer a non-slip grip even when hands are slick with water.
Sea Salt Soap
With a beautiful, fresh scent, this bar of soap is made from salt which has been harvested naturally from the ocean. Known for its skin softening properties, this Swedish-inspired bar produces a rich lather which is ideal for showering, bathing, or a close wet shave.
Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak
Give them the means to spend hours on the water with an inflatable kayak. This model is designed to seat 2 people comfortably, and comes with aluminum oars and air pump, so it includes everything needed to get going. And for added safety, it’s bright yellow for easy visibility.
Folding Deck Chair
Much more comfy than a standard folding chair, this one is ideal for whiling away the hours on the deck of a boat. With composite feet to keep floors safe, this thickly padded chair is mildew-resistant, and folds flat when not in use so it won’t get in the way.
Set Sail Wind-Up Sculpture
A lovely gift for someone who’s missing the ocean, this sweet diorama can sit on their desk or bookshelf. Handmade from wood, this cute little box features a metal handle which, when turned, creates waves inside with a sailing boat bobbing happily up and down.
Sailing Ship Kite
This has got to be one of the coolest kites ever made, and it will delight sea dogs and spectators alike. Creating quite a spectacle as it soars through the sky, this bright white galleon is handmade by Balinese artisans and actually uses its sails to help it to fly.
Carhartt Men's Mayne Lightweight PVC Bib Overalls
Perfect for fishing or for warding off sea spray, these PVC bib overalls are – of course – totally waterproof so will keep him dry in even the toughest conditions. Machine-washable, they come in green, yellow, or black, and feature electronically welded seams for added peace of mind.
Custom Lake Art Cribbage Board
For those times when they can’t be out on their favorite lake, there’s always cribbage. This wooden board has been laser-etched with a map of their favorite body of water, complete with topographical details, and comes with aluminum pegs and a bronze-filled cork plug.
Seascape Cast Currency Sculpture
The perfect gift for a very special occasion, this seascape has been entirely created by hand from coins. Using both American and foreign coins, the tiny boats are hand cut and then cast in bronze, before being captured in a beautiful porthole-like frame in keeping with the nautical theme.
ONYX Kayak Fishing Life Jacket
Keep them safe while also being fully equipped with the ONYX kayak fishing life jacket. Fitted with numerous pockets to hold all their essential gear, this jacket also has a high back to accommodate seating, and six adjustable straps to ensure a safe, comfortable fit.
YETI Hopper Sidekick Dry
Keep belongings bone dry even in the wettest of conditions by using the YETI Hopper Sidekick Dry. Designed to be attached to one of many Hopper models, plus the Camino Carryall and HitchPoint Grid, this pouch is completely impenetrable, even if it takes a dunk in the water.
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