Great Gift Ideas for Boating Enthusiasts
We all have someone on our list who can be tricky to shop for, but we’ve got your bases covered for a thoughtful boating gift. Before you throw in the towel and settle on another ho-hum present, take a look at this list. There are plenty of great gift ideas for boating enthusiasts out there! From fishing, to water sports, or just family outings on the water, you’re sure to find something here that will be a winner.
1. Handy First Aid Kit
Having an extra first aid kit around is always a good idea. You never know when you’ll need a bandage. Most people forget to buy these supplies for themselves, so giving them as gifts is nice and practical. Look at smaller packs to fit in kayaks or canoes, or go with a full set to keep on the boat or at the lake house. Hopefully they’ll never have to use it, but they’ll be glad to have it around if they do.
2. Floating Fishing Pliers
Cutting through braided fishing line or removing hooks from a fish requires the right tool for the job. But you don’t want to spend money on something just to lose it in the water. Floating pliers are great because you don’t have to worry about dropping them—never to be seen again. Since these are on the smaller side, they also make great stocking stuffers.
3. Boating Shoes or Flip-Flops
It’s easy for sandals to wear out over the years, especially for growing kids. Buying another pair is smart this time of year because you’ll be ready to go as soon as the temperatures kick back up. Just make sure you have the right shoe size, and you’ll be on your way to a great boating gift.
4. Portable Phone Charger
A backup charger is super handy when you’re on the water. You don’t want to miss out on any photos just because you drained your battery. Again, this is a gift that most people may not think to get on their own. Portable phone chargers are great because you don’t even need an outlet to use them. Just plug them to your phone, and watch the charge get refilled.
5. Fish Cleaning Station
Surprise! Not everyone likes the smell of the day’s catch in the kitchen. That’s when a portable fish cleaning station saves the day. These tables can get set up next to any outdoor spigot. If your gift recipient doesn’t already have a designated area to clean their fish, this gift can be a great two-for-one. You might be making multiple people happy with just a single present!
6. Waterproof Dry Bag
Tossing your valuables into the base of your kayak or canoe can be risky. To keep those items safe, a dry bag is the way to go. These packs are also great for other outdoor activities, too. They can definitely help out during day hikes, or any other day when there’s a chance of rain.
7. Walkie Talkies
Even with a dry bag, some people might not trust the kids to handle a phone in the kayak. And other gift recipients may not want to bring their phone on the water either if it isn’t waterproof. When you’re out paddling for the afternoon, walkie talkies can be a great way to stay in touch with people on the dock, up at the lake house, or elsewhere on the water. It’s not complicated technology, but it’s still quite a bit of fun.
8. Outdoor Sound Speaker
Boat lovers know you don’t need much to have a good time enjoying the water. Some food and drinks and good company are about all you really need, but a little music can always make things better. A portable sound speaker can be a nice gift for any family member or friend. They’ll be able to take it with them anywhere and use it to share music off their smart phone with the rest of their group.
9. Headwear or Shades
If you want to think outside of the box, a neck gaiter can be another good fit. These versatile pieces let you make your own headwear. You can use it to protect your neck from the sun, or keep it on your forehead to keep any sweat away. When nothing else seems to be just right, you can always go with the tried and true gifts of hats or sunglasses. There are plenty of options that have a nautical or outdoor theme.
Any one of these items can be a great boating gift for someone who loves being on the water. With the right gear, you’ll help them make the most of their time outdoors when the weather warms up!