Best Gifts for Boaters

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Last updated on January 8, 2022

best gifts for boaters

While boating is an expensive hobby there are many inexpensive holiday gift ideas for boaters. Those of us who are not boaters often times feel that they will not get the right holiday gift or that they will need to spend hours doing research in order to get the best gift idea; and that is just not true. 

We have done the hard work for you with our holiday gift guide making it very easy to find some great gifts for boaters within your budget. We have broken out 4 different budget ranges in our holiday gift ideas so that everyone can find unique and useful boat accessories. No more having to worry about finding the perfect holiday gift for your boater!

Gifts for Boaters Under $25

Universal Waterproof Case

Mpow Universal Waterproof Case, IPX8 Waterproof Phone Pouch Dry Bag Compatible for iPhone Xs Max/XS/XR/X/8/8P/7/7P Galaxy up to 6.0

Need a universal waterproof case to ensure your electronics stay dry during your day on the water? Then the Mpow Waterproof Case is for you with is IPX8 waterproof rating and large size (can store up to 6 inch cellphones) you can also operate your phone (aside from fingerprint lock) through the see through plastic! This is also very budget friendly.


Rotary Cleaning Brushes for Boats

Boat Accessories - Kayak - Cleaning Supplies - Drill Brush - Rotary Cleaning Brushes for Boats and Watercraft - Canoes, Jet-Ski, Bass - Fiberglass, Aluminum, Gel Coat, Wood, Painted - Hull and Deck

Paying to have your boat or watercraft detailed can be expensive. Many boat owners prefer to do the cleaning and detailing themselves which is why the Drillbrush Rotary Cleaning Brushes are a perfect gift for anyone with a boat or water craft. These brushes work great in rounded corners on swim steps and fiberglass. This is a perfect boating gift a small budget.


6-in-1 Boat Tool

DeckMate 6-in-1 Boat Tool, Includes 2 Deck Keys, Shackle Key, Zipper Pull, Screwdriver, and Hex Tool

Having a good multi-tool on your boat is essential and the DeckMate 6-in-1 Boat Tool includes two deck keys, shackle key, zipper pull, screw driver, hex tool, and bottle opener so you are ready for whatever you may need to open while on the water. It also includes a lanyard to keep it from slipping into the water. This is one of the most handy gifts for boaters!


Personal Locator Light with Lifetime LED Bulb

UST SplashFlash Waterproof LED Flashlight, Orange

Nothing is more important than your safety on the the water and the UST SplashFlash 25 Lumen Mini-Lantern and personal locator light makes a great choice if you want to make sure every  boater stays safe and you stay under budget.


Waterproof First Aid Kit

Coleman Sportsman Waterproof First Aid Kit, 100-Piece for boating

Having a first aid kit with you when your out on the water is very important. The Coleman Sportsman Waterproof first aid kit is a great holiday gift for every boater. This 100 piece kit includes everything you need for mild injuries giving you time to get back to shore or call for help. The waterproof case floats and is crush proof to ensure the contents are damaged. The first aid kit is also very reasonable making it a great gift on a budget.


Waterproof Dry Bag

Earth Pak -Waterproof Dry Bag - Roll Top Dry Compression Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayaking, Beach, Rafting, Boating, Hiking, Camping and Fishing with Waterproof Phone Case

Every boater knows the importance of having a good quality dry bag on their boat to keep boat accessories, essentials and electronics dry. The Earth Pak is a roll top compression sack and will keep your gear dry on your boat, kayak, or jet ski. It also includes a water proof phone case as well. Its low price makes it a great gift no matter your budget. 


All-Weather Notebook

All-Weather Top-Spiral Notebook 3

Need to make sure you have a waterproof note pad to jot down important thoughts or ideas next time you are out on the water? Look no further than the All Weather Top Spiral Notebook. While you will need to use a pencil or waterproof pen to ensure your ideas do not bleed off the paper its cheap price makes it a great boating gift.


Illuminated Marine Compass

Shoreline Illuminated Marine Compass

While most boaters will have a VHF radio with GPS or a standalone GPS unit an Illuminated Marine Compass is always good to have as a back up should your radio/GPS unit fail. This compass comes with a 12V back light making it great for night time use and is also UV protected so it will not fade from sunlight. It's low price makes it a great gift for small budgets.


Cup Holder for Drinks

ROBOCUP 12 Colors, Best Cup Holder for Drinks, Fishing Rod/Pole, Boat, Beach Chair/Golf Cart/Wheelchair/Walker/Drum Sticks/Microphone Stand

Keeping your drink or bottle of water stable on the boat means you need a cup holder specifically built for use on boats. The Robocup holder is just that. In addition you can use them as fishing rod holders; this added versatility will come in handy. Their great price make them even more attractive as a holiday gift no matter what your budget is.


Gifts for Boaters Under $50

Portable LED Bow Light

Innovative Lighting Portable LED Bow Light with Suction Cup

If your in need of a portable LED bow light Innovative Lighting's suction cup bow light makes a great choice. With its shock proof construction and 100,000 hours of service life you will not have to worry about replacing the bulb and the powerful suction cup ensures that it will stay attached wherever you need to place it on your boat.


Outdoor Waterproof Blanket

Down Under Outdoors Premium Large Waterproof, Windproof, Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket, Machine Washable, Camping, Picnic & Outdoor, Beach, Dog, 82 x 55 inches (Blue/Grey)

Looking for an all weather waterproof blanket to keep on your boat for when the days or evenings are not as warm as you would like? Down Under Outdoors quilted fleece stadium blanket checks all the boxes for a high quality, large blanket that you can take with you on any trip and know that you will be able to keep warm. This blanket is also machine washable so there is no need to worry about the extra work of hand washing it after a long trip.


Nautical Chart Tumbler

Tumbler

This nautical chart stainless travel-size tumbler is vacuum-insulated and built to last. It's a perfect holiday gift for showing off your nautical style on the road, at the office or on the water.


Full Face Snorkeling Mask

Greatever [2018 Newest Version] View Panoramic Snorkel Mask - Breathefree Full Face Snorkeling Mask with Detachable GoPro Mount, Dry Top Set Anti-Fog Anti-Leak for Adults&Kids(Black, L/XL)

During the summer months nothing is better than diving into the cool clear water and exploring the world under the water. Greatever's foldable 180 panoramic full face snokel mask makes your under water excursions so much more enjoyable. This snorkel mask includes a GoPro mount and is anti-fog and anti-leak ensuring nothing disrupts your snorkeling adventure.


Floating Sunglasses

rheos floating sunglasses

Don't loose your favorite sunglasses in the water anymore by choosing Rheos sunglasses. These floating sunglasses feature polarized lenses with 100% UV protection, plus they are anti-scratch, anti-fog and anti-glare. Browse Rheos website and choose your favorite style.


Water Shoes

Speedo Men's Seaside Lace 5.0 Athletic Water Shoe

While we enjoy boating one necessity is having shoes that dry quickly and are non-slip. These Speedo Men's Seaside Water Shoes are the perfect match for your boat and outdoor activities. Their outsole quickly moves water away making them less likely to slip in wet conditions. They are also light weight and quick drying, so your feet get dry quicker.


Boat Fenders

Extreme Max 3006.7201 BoatTector Fender Value 2-Pack, 6

Boat fenders are mandatory for any boat owner and you can get great value from the Extreme Max's 6 x 22 set of fenders. These boat asseccories come equipped with a needle valve to easily inflate or deflate as needed.  They are rated for boats 20 to 25 feet long and come with a two year limited warranty.


TP-solar Solar Panel Kit

TP-solar Solar Panel Kit 10W 12V Monocrystalline Trickle Battery Charger Maintainer + 10A Charge Controller + Cable with Alligator Clip O-Ring Terminal for Car RV Vehicle Marine Boat Off Grid System

Keeping your battery charged on your boat between uses is imperative to ensure that you will be able to start your motor when you are ready to head out. While you can invest in a regular trickle charger TP-solar Panel Kit  is a great alternative. All you have to do is lay the solar panel out in direct sunlight and you are good to go. This solar trickle charger also includes a blocking diode so that your batteries do not discharge backwards  through the panel during the night when the chargers voltage is lower.


Nautical Chart Beach Towel

Beach Towel gift

Show off your passion for all things nautical on the beach with a vibrant and super soft beach towel. One-sided print, polyester facing with cotton loop backing for extra lush absorbency.


Coldest Water Bottle

The Coldest Water Bottle 32 oz Wide Mouth Insulated Stainless Steel Hydro Thermos - Cold up to 36 Hrs/Hot 13 Hrs Double Walled Flask with Strong Cap

When you’re out on your boat in the hot weather keeping your drink ice cold is very important and if you venture out in the winter months having your beverage hot is equally important. The Coldest Water Bottle 32 oz. insulated travel mug is a great choice to keep liquids hot or cold. This travel mug keeps liquids cold for up to 36 hours and hot for 13 hours. The stainless-steel double walled construction ensures that that it will last for many seasons on any boat.


Portable Charger

Portable Charger Anker PowerCore 20100mAh - Ultra High Capacity Power Bank with 4.8A Output, External Battery Pack for iPhone, iPad & Samsung Galaxy & More (Black)

Looking for an ultra high capacity portable charger? Anker's Poer Core 20100mAh external battery pack may be just what you need. This small charger can charge an iPhone completely 6 times or an iPad mini  4 two times.  The charger comes with a carrying case, micro USB cable and 18 month warranty so you don't have to worry about having any issues with it for a long time.


Gifts for Boaters Under $100

Nautical Chart Wall Clock

wall clock

Every second counts with your customer Nautical Chart Wall Clock! An exciting and practical accent in any room, this unique high quality Wall Clock serves as a statement piece, creating a personalized environment. Wooden frame, Plexiglass face, Pre-installed backside hook.


4k Waterproof Action Camera

Campark ACT74 Action Camera 16MP 4K WiFi Waterproof Sports Cam 170 Degree Ultra Wide-Angle Len with 2 Pcs Rechargeable Batteries and Mounting Accessories Kits

Being out on the water is a great way to spend the day or weekend; being able to record your time on the water makes it even better. Campark's 16MP 4K WiFi waterproof sports cam with 170 ultra wide angle lens lets you capture all the fun and adventure of your boating trip. This camera is waterproof up to 98 ft. and shoots 4k at 30 fps. The 180 minute run time ensures you will be able to capture all your memories as well. 


Waterproof Monocular

Gosky 12x55 High Definition Monocular Telescope and Quick Smartphone Holder - 2019 Newest Waterproof Monocular -BAK4 Prism for Wildlife Bird Watching Hunting Camping Travelling Wildlife Secenery

Being able to spot debris, obstacles, or people in the water or on land is important when venturing out. Gosky 12x55 High Definition Monocular is a great tool to have on your boat. you can easily spot objects up to 1,000 yards away. The rugged waterproof construction means you won't need to  worry about it jostling around.


Marine Receiver Stereo & Speaker Kit

Bluetooth Marine Receiver Stereo & Speaker Kit, Hands-Free Calling, Wireless Streaming, MP3/USB/SD Readers, AM/FM Radio, (4) 6.5

Great music will make every boat trip better and Pyle's Bluetooth marine receiver stereo and speaker kit is an inexpensive way to add music to your boat. This kit includes the receiver and four 6.5 inch waterproof speakers as well as the hardware necessary to install. The built in Bluetooth allows you to take calls from your cell phone or stream audio from phone as well.


Garmin Fish Finder

Garmin Striker 4 with Transducer, 3.5

If your a fisherman then you know the importance of having a good fish finder on your boat so that you can not only locate fish but mark the exact spot for future trips. Garmin's Striker 4 with GPS and CHIRP traditional transducer is a great entry level fish finder sure to please every angler. With a depth range of 1,700 feet in fresh water and 750 feet in saltwater you can find fish almost anywhere.


Trailerable Boat Cover

MSC Heavy Duty 600D Marine Grade Polyester Canvas Trailerable Waterproof Boat Cover, Grey,Fits V-Hull,Runabout Boat Cover,Full Size Boat Cover, Mooring and Storage Used Boat Cover

Protecting your boat from the elements is vitally important whether you are storing it at the marina or in your back yard. A boat cover is essential and MSC's heavy duty 600D marine grade polyester waterproof cover is a good value choice considering the price. This cover can also be used during trailer transport and is UV and mildew resistant. A three year limited warranty is another reason this is one of the best gift ideas.


Gifts for Boaters Over $100

Countertop Ice Maker

VIVOHOME Electric Portable Compact Countertop Automatic Ice Cube Maker Machine 26lbs/day Silver ETL Listed

Having ice on hand to keep your drinks cold on the boat is important on a hot day and who wants to keep their ice in a bag in the cooler along with everything else? VIVOHOME Portable  Countertop Ice Cube Maker can make 26 pounds of ice per day so you never have to worry about running out while on the water. Ice is made every 6 minutes and indicator lights show you when the ice basket is full or when you need to add more water.


Complete Detailing Kit

Chemical Guys BUF Porter Cable 7424XP Detailing Complete Detailing Kit with Pads, Backing Plate and Accessories (13 Items)

Keeping your boat in tip top shape means it will need to washed and detailed regularly not only to keep it looking great but also to protect it form the UV rays. Many boat owners choose to do this themselves as it can be expensive. The Chemical Guys complete detailing kit comes with everything you need to keep your boat looking like new. This polisher has a variable speed motor from 2,500 opm (oscillations per minute) to 6,800; pads towels and a back plate are included.


VHF Radio with GPS

Standard Horizon HX890NB Marine Two Way Radios

Every boater needs a VHF radio on their boat for communication and emergencies. The Standard Horizon HX890 is an excellent choice with a built in FM receiver and rugged construction. The built in 66 channel WAAS GPS receiver ensures you will be able to monitor weather conditions and alerts. There is also a scrambler function built in so that you can keep your communications private should you need to.


Global Satellite Phone Kit

BlueCosmo Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 Satellite Phone Kit (SIM Included) - Global Coverage - Voice, SMS, GPS Tracking, Emergency SOS - Prepaid and Monthly Service Plan Options

Want to ensure that you are never out of range of family or friends on your boat? BlueCosmo's inmarsat satellite phone kit with included SIM allows you to always be connected no matter where you are. There are pre-paid and monthly service plans available depending upon how much you will be using it. There are also no roaming charges. The Inmarsat is also water and dust resistant so you don't have to worry if it gets wet or dirty.


Waterproof Marine Binoculars

Hooway 7x50 Waterproof Fogproof Marine Binoculars w/Internal Rangefinder & Compass for Navigation,Boating,Fishing,Water Sports,Hunting and More

Being able to spot far away obstacles and other boats from a distance is much easier with a pair of binoculars but who wants to bring their expensive binoculars out on the water as there is the chance they could fall overboard. Hooway's 7x50 fogproof marine binoculars not only have an internal compass and rangefinder but also float so you never have to worry if they fall in the water.


Dive Computer

Cressi Leonardo, white/black

Looking for an inexpensive all in one dive watch that is still classy? The Cressi Leonardo single button dive computer is perfect for beginning scuba divers and pros alike. With one glance you can see your remaining time under water and the oxygen toxicity indicator. This is a great holiday gift for people who travel and dive as it is inexpensive but still has all the features you need!


Buoyant Personal Locator Beacon

ACR ResQLink View - Buoyant GPS Personal Locator Beacon (Model PLB-425)

Having a personal locator beacon on your boat is an essential and ACR's ResQLink View 425  is a great choice. This locator beacon is pre-programmed with the US country code and requires no monthly service fee like some locator beacons do. It transmits on the 406 MHz frequency and is a perfect choice if your shopping for a beacon but don't want to spend a lot of money.


Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

SereneLife Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board (6 Inches Thick) with SUP Accessories & Carrying Storage Bag | Wide Stance, Bottom Fin for Paddling, Surf Control, Non-Slip Deck | Youth & Adult

Want to explore the water but don't want the upkeep or cost that a boat requires. SereneLife's premium inflatable stand up paddle board offers an inexpensive way to explore the water ways. This paddle board is also compact and can be stored easily when not inflated. Its extra wide allowing for better balance and has non-slip top deck. This kit includes everything you need to get out on the water and enjoy the waves.


Offshore Swingback Cooler

Wise 8WD156-784 Swingback Cooler Seat, 70-Quart, Cuddy Brite White

Space is always a precious commodity on a boat and having at least one if not multiple coolers is very important. Wise's offshore swingback 70 quart cooler provides a padded seat with back rest and a cooler all in one. The 6 year warranty on the frame and 3 year warranty on the upholstery speaks to its rugged design and ensures it will last for many seasons.


Marine Kettle Gas Grill

Magma Products, A10-205 Marine Kettle A10-205, Gas Grill, Original Size 15 Inches, Stainless Steel, Adjustable Control Valve

Out on the water there are so many things you can do enjoy the day but at some point you will need to refuel and grilling on your boat can be a great way to enjoy good food with family and friends. Magma's marine kettle gas grill is an easy way to cook your next meal on your boat. This grill has both radiant and convection cooking to help you finish your grilling quickly and enjoy the food!


Waterproof Wireless Bluetooth Speaker

FUGOO Tough XL- Ultimate Rugged Waterproof Wireless Bluetooth Speaker 35 Hrs Battery Life with Built in Speakerphone  (Silver/Black)

Need some tunes on your boat but don't want to invest in a marine stereo? Look no further than the Fugoo tough XL waterproof wireless bluetooth speaker. This portable speaker has  4 tweeters, 2mid/sub drivers, and 2 passive radiators. This speaker can be submerged in 3 feet of water for 30 minutes with no damage. Battery life is impressive as well lasting 35 hours on a single charge. Finally, you can fast charge your phone or tablet from the wireless bluetooth speaker if needed.


Waterproof Sailing Jacket and Bib Pants

Navis Marine Waterproof Sailing Jacket and Trousers Foul Weather Gear Rain Suit Breathable Windproof… (Gold, L)

If you love fishing or sailing but the weather is usually rainy or rough when you go out in your boat a Navis Marine waterproof sailing jacket and bib pants may be what you need.  They are durable and made out of a Seratex outer shell with a polyester lining. While not great for warmer climates these can help keep you dry while your out on the water.


Garmin Marine Watch

Garmin Quatix 5, 1.2 inches

Looking for a rugged watch specially designed for use in the water or on a boat? Garmin's Quatix 5 is great choice! It provides connectivity to chart plotters and other marine equipment allowing you to stay informed no matter where you are on your boat. There is also built in GPS and you can control your stereo as well from the face of the watch.


Have more gift ideas for our holiday gift guide? Write us an email and we will try to incorporate that on our page.

About the author  Robert Finn

Robert has over 20 years of experience boating and selling boat equipment. His passion for the latest and greatest gear helps our clients find what they need. His favorite boating place is the Florida Keys.

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