As the holidays approach, many of us scramble to come up with unique gift ideas for the boaters in our lives. Whether you’re searching for a big surprise or just need some nautical stocking stuffers, our Holiday Boater Gift Guide features our top picks for every kind of boater and every kind of budget.
For the note taker:
Rite in the Rain Waterproof Pads
Nothing beats a handwritten note, but paper tends to live a short life while out at sea. These pads of specialty paper are perfect for preserving navigation logs, secret fishing spots and maintenance notes.
Cost: $3.95 – $29.95
www.riteintherain.com
For Mr. Safety:
MOB+ xFOB
Wireless Man Over Board System
The new MOB+ from FELL Marine combines the cut-off switch safety with the freedom of wireless bands. Should you or anyone on your boat (pets, too!) go overboard while wearing an xFOB, it sends a signal to the xHUB installed on your boat to stop the engine and sends an alarm to three other xFOBs.
Cost: Starting at $199.99
www.fellmarine.com
For the softie:
Free Fly Apparel
These shirts are so soft you might just forget you’re wearing one! Constructed from comfortable, environmentally sustainable bamboo with a touch of quick-dry material, these shirts offer UV protection, breathability, and anti-odor technology.
Cost: Prices vary
www.freeflyapparel.com
For the bookworm:
Blue Mind by Wallace J. Nichols
Ever notice how your ocean lover is always in a better mood after a day on the water? This book by Dr. Wallace J Nichols explains the science behind how being near, in, on, or under the water can “make you happier, healthier, more connected, and better at what you do.” Do we need to say more?
Cost: $13.32
Available on Amazon
For the wine connoisseur:
Anti-Spill Wine Glasses
The days of drinking wine out of plastic cups or rushing to clean merlot off the bow cushion are over. Available for red, white or champagne, these crystal glasses from Royal Stabilis actually cling to a stainless steel magnetic base so even the harshest of waves won’t spill them or send them flying.
Cost: $59 for the magnetic base, $99 for a set of four glasses
https://www.royalstabilis.com/shop/
For the young boater:
Lego Ideas Old Fishing Store
Maybe the little boater in your life isn’t quite old enough to jump out on the family fishing boat alone just yet. This Old Fishing Store Lego set may tide them over until they can get behind the wheel!
Cost: $149.99
www.shop.lego.com
For the chef of the boat:
Reel Salt & Pepper Mills
Specifically built to keep your granules dry and fresh in the marine environment, these fishing reel mills make a great gift for any boating, fishing and cooking enthusiast.
Cost: $239 for the set
http://offshoreclassics.com/products/reel-salt-and-pepper-mills
For the clean freak:
Campsuds Soap
This super concentrated all-purpose soap is the perfect stocking stuffer. It’s made from vegetable-derived ingredients and boaters can literally use it from head to toe, including hair washing and deck swabbing.
Cost: $3.39
Available on Amazon
For the nostalgic Captain:
Tide clock
Remember the days before smart phones and tide apps? This tide clock makes a great gift for the boater who would appreciate a little blast from the past.
Cost: $109
Available on Amazon
For the bad driver:
Dock Fenders
Immunize your loved ones against dock rash. These soft, durable cushions from Montauk Supply attach directly to your dock so they no longer have to drop heavy fenders on and off the boat each time they go out.
Cost: Starting at $110
https://montauksupply.com/#dockfenders
For the fashion-forward boater:
Nautical Accessories
Kiel James Patrick’s timeless American-made, New England-inspired accessories are perfect for the stylish boater in your life. One of their most iconic and popular items is the anchor bracelet, which is fitting for both men and women.
Cost: Starting at $40
https://kieljamespatrick.com/collections/leather-bracelets
For the boater who loves to swim:
Sharkbandz
Shark deterrent technology may be the hottest tech on the market right now. Sharkbanz utilize powerful magnets, which means no need to replace batteries or charge the device. Sharks detect the device’s electromagnetic field, and the resulting sensation deters the animals from the swimmer’s immediate area.
Cost: Starting at $69
https://www.sharkbanz.com/pages/how-it-works
For the onboard paparazzi:
Watertight Camera Case
Expensive cameras and water don’t mix well, but watertight protective cases ensure photo equipment stays safe and dry. Similar products that provide the same level of protection can cost hundreds of dollars, but Harbor Freight offers a style at half the cost without sacrificing quality.
Cost: Starting at $39.99
https://www.harborfreight.com/watertight-protective-case-large-63927.html
For the lounger:
Portable Hammock
Nothing beats an afternoon nap on the boat. These versatile hammocks from Eagles Nest Outfitters are made from 70D High Tenacity Nylon Taffeta and are perfect for tying up between masts.
Cost: Starting at $52.84
Available on Amazon
For the boater who has it all:
BoatUS Towing Membership
A club membership is an affordable way to show you care by ensuring your boater comes home safe and sound if they’re ever in a bind.
Cost: Starting at $24/year for Basic or $72+/year for Unlimited
https://www.boatus.com/membership/plans-and-prices
Happy gifting and happy holidays from our crew to yours!