Gift ideas boaters will love
By Rebecca Blackson
It’s the season for giving—and there’s no better way to make a boater smile than with something that makes life on the water even better. From practical must-haves to fun extras, this year’s gift guide is packed with ideas for everyone who’d rather be at the helm than anywhere else. Consider it your shortcut to putting a little more boating under the tree.
JBL RALLYBAR2
Take your soundtrack to the next level with JBL’s RALLYBAR2. Available in multiple sizes, this all-in-one marine audio system packs powerful JBL Pro Sound, AI Sound Boost and plenty of bass into a durable, lightweight design built to handle life on the water. With eight marine-grade speakers (four woofers, two tweeters, and two radiators) the RALLYBAR2 is powered by a built-in class D 150W RMS amplifier, includes Bluetooth connectivity, and has dynamic LED lights that can dance along to your soundtrack. With flexible mounting options, the RALLYBAR2 can stand alone or easily join an existing audio system, so you can always bring the party with you. Retail pricing starts at $899.95. (www.jbl.com)
Plano Tackle Backpack
The Weekend Tackle Backpack is built to keep your fishing gear organized, protected, and ready for whatever the day brings for just $74.99. Its waterproof molded base keeps your gear dry on wet docks, boat decks and shorelines, while the roomy main compartment, tool sleeves and quick-access pockets make it easy to find what you need. A handy daisy chain gives you even more ways to carry extra gear and accessories. Durable, versatile, and made for life on the water, it’s a reliable companion for every fishing adventure. (www.planooutdoors.com)
XTRATUF Women’s Legacy Mule
Give the boater in your life a gift that’s as practical as it is stylish. The XTRATUF Legacy Mule is a waterproof, easy-on slip-on with a slip-resistant, non-marking outsole for confident footing on wet boat decks or around town. An open-cell foam insert keeps feet comfortable all day, making these a go-to pair for adventures on and off the water. The shoes retail for $130. (www.xtratuf.com)
Huk Men’s Rogue Island Flip Flop
Rogue Island isn’t your average flip-flop. Designed for life around water but built to move beyond it, it features its angler-tested Grip-X outsole with the same multi-directional traction and water-dispersing microchannels as found in Huk’s 5-star-rated Rogue Wave boots. With every step, you’ll find confident grip on slick decks and marina docks. Up top, a comfort-stretch strap moves with you while maintaining its shape wear after wear, while the Waveform footbed provides all-day cushioning and support. It’s a traction you can trust, in a comfort silhouette made for everyday freedom for just $85. (www.huk.com)
Mission Outdoor Towel Set
Don’t settle for bulky, slow-drying cotton towels—upgrade your boating towels to microfiber swim towels from Mission Outdoor. The TUKO set of beach towels comes in two- or four-pack sets, stows small in an included water-resistant carrying case, and, best of all, has colorful integrated straps so you can conveniently hang them up on your boat tower or Bimini for fast drying—plus, you’ll always know which towel is yours. Made from premium microfiber, these towels are more absorbent than a cotton shower towel, making them ideal for drying off after a swim. The two-pack set is $39 and the four-pack set is $69. (www.boatgear.missionoutdoor.com)
Sunbrella Throw
Bring sophisticated comfort to any space with the Signature Indoor Outdoor Throw from Sunbrella. Crafted with mélange yarns, this oversized throw combines luxurious softness and durability, plus it’s fade, stain, and mildew resistant for effortless indoor and outdoor living. Its bold tonal plaid adds timeless style, while machine-washable, bleach-cleanable construction makes it easy to maintain. Made in the USA, the throw delivers warmth and comfort after a swim or during an early morning or evening cruise, and retails for $299. (www.sunbrella.com)
Yeti Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag
Tough inside and out, the Camino 35 Carryall is not too small, not too big, and perfectly tough for $160. Made from waterproof, ultra-durable, and easy-to-clean material, this tote bag will keep sandy wetsuits contained and help you organize towels, water bottles, and everyday essentials. The bag’s welded construction is completely waterproof so you can set it down in a wet-bottom boat and keep moisture at bay. The sturdy EVA molded bottom keeps the bag upright; organize your gear with the deployable dividers or tuck them away to create one large compartment. Two interior zippered pockets allow you to stay organized, and the hook closure helps keep larger items contained. (www.yeti.com)
Toadfish Abalone Shell Chef Knife Set
Add a little coastal style to the kitchen with this stunning four-piece knife set from Toadfish. Each knife combines razor-sharp Damascus steel with a beautiful, iridescent abalone handle, creating a gift that’s as eye-catching as it is practical. With a chef’s, Santoku, utility, and paring knife included, it has everything needed for chopping, slicing, and dicing for those smaller galley tasks for $248. A vibrant, iridescent abalone underlay in each handle is made from sustainably sourced aquaculture and adds stunning detail that reminds you of life on the water. (www.toadfish.com)
Docktail Butler Table with Pontoon Rail Mount
Transform your boating experience with The Butler, an innovative table that attaches to your pontoon railing to become your personal butler on the water. Durable, portable, and lightweight, The Butler keeps drinks and items secure even while underway or in choppy water. Deep drink holders keep liquids secure, and smart storage has spots for snacks, phones, and sunscreen so you have everything within reach. Customize the table to match your boat’s colors, and take advantage of multiple mounting options, including rail mounts, suction mounts for smooth surfaces, or an attachment to replace your factory-issued pedestal table. The table retails for $499. (www.docktailbar.com)
Pontoon Heartbeat Apron
Join your two great loves—pontoon life and grilling—with the Pontoon Heartbeat Apron from Pontoon Life Forever. When flipping burgers on the pontoon, this apron keeps your style as strong as your passion at only $24.99. Featuring a sleek heartbeat plus pontoon design, this statement apron is made for those who know life just hits different on the water. Made from high-quality canvas fabric, the apron has an adjustable neck strap and a reinforced pocket to keep small items at the ready. (www.pontoonlifeforever.com)