Before you get out on your boat, be sure you and your boat are equipped with all the best boating accessories to make your time on the water as safe and enjoyable as possible.
Here’s our list of the top boating accessories to have on your boat at all times, from your basic safety gear to accessories that help you maximize your fun and comfort.
Boating Essentials
Everything you need to keep yourself and your boat afloat! Other than, of course, your basic GPS system, radio, anchor, and dock lines.
Binoculars: Great for seeing long distances.
Paddles: Paddles work great in case of engine failure or to help you otherwise maneuver your boat.
Boat hook: A boat hook is a versatile tool that you can use to pull your boat closer to a dock, secure ropes and fishing lines, or just grab something from out of the water.
Solar panels or solar chargers: Solar energy is a great renewable power source, especially in emergency situations.
Navigation lights and spotlight: Navigation lights are legally required on boats, as they help you see where you’re going in the dark. This also includes a flashlight.
Swimming ladder: You may need something to ease you into the water if you need to.
Cleaning kit: Boat maintenance is a must! It’s important to keep your boat spick and span with a cleaning kit. You’ll need to keep it well-stocked with an all-purpose non-toxic boat cleaner, a hull and bottom cleaner, marine wax, fiberglass cleaner, mildew remover, and lots of brushes, cloths, and sponges.
Tool kit: You never know when you might need to fix something up while you’re out on the water. Any basic tool kit with pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, tape, and the works should be fine, but for boats, be sure to include a rigging knife, spare dock lines and string or cable ties, jumper cables, boat plugs, and a mask and snorkel, among other things.
First aid kit: Always have a first aid kit on board packed with all the essentials, from bandages to medications.
Water bailing containers: Bailing pails or buckets help to bail water out of your boat in case it floods.
Personal Items
Now that your boat has all the necessary equipment, it’s time to equip yourself with the right stuff too!
Dry bags: Dry bags or dry boxes help to keep all your personal belongings safe and dry. You can store your electronics, wallets, extra batteries, and other water-sensitive items.
Sea to Summit and YETI dry bags are both known for their durability, design, and storage capabilities. While pricier than most, these are both very dependable brands and are definitely worth the splurge to keep all your essentials safe and dry.
Sunscreen and sunglasses: Protect your skin and eyes from the sun, especially during the hot summer months.
Calcutta has some great sunglasses that offer top-notch UV protection and have many designs for both style and practicality purposes.
When it comes to sunscreen, meanwhile, you can’t go wrong with well-established brands like Neutrogena, CeraVe, Nivea, and Sun Bum.
UV-protected clothing: UV-protected clothing takes sun protection to a whole new level!
Many sportswear brands carry UV-protected and water-resistant clothing, but the ones that seem to get all the rave reviews include Uniqlo, Columbia, Coolibar, and Athleta.
Ice and coolers: You’ll need coolers to store your food and drinks, and of course, ice to keep everything cold.
Towels: Essential for keeping everything dry and wiping down dirty surfaces.
A good towel should be super absorbent, fast-drying, and not too bulky. Rainleaf’s microfiber towels check off all the above criteria and are perfect for all outdoor use, from camping to boating.
Drink holders: Don’t want to accidentally spill your drink while the boat’s on the move!
Recreation
Sit back and just have a good time with these recreational accessories that, while not completely necessary, do make the entire experience just all the more entertaining!
Boat grill: Who says you can’t grill on a boat? With a boat grill and a grill mount, you can have your own cookout everywhere you go.
Floats: It can be nice to float around on the water while you’re docked or anchored, or if you want to experience a thrill, invest in a tow tube.
Boat slide: You never know what you’re missing till you try it yourself! And unlike diving boards, boat slides are usually inflatable so you can put them away and store them easily when they’re not in use.
Once your boat has been outfitted with all the best boasting accessories, you’re ready to go! Be sure to dock your boat at The Wharf Marina and learn more about which boating accessories best suit your boat.
And don’t worry if you forget anything — the Wharf Marina Dock Shop has you covered on most of these essentials, so you don’t miss anything before getting well underway!
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