Looking for the perfect boating-related gift for your favorite cruising partner? Check out the list below for the best nautical presents at every price point; you’re sure to find a great catch for everyone on your holiday shopping list, no matter their level of marine experience. This list will give you some great ideas and will work for boat owners and boating enthusiasts alike. We’ve compiled some original suggestions that will go beyond the mundane fishing shirts and boat shoes. Waited until the last minute to shop? No problem: many of these gifts will arrive in 2 days or less with free shipping if you’re an Amazon Prime member.
The Docktail Bar – $145-$300 depending on your choice of style and where you purchase
If your style of boating is leisurely and rum-soaked, this ingenious portable cocktail station is the perfect gift to turn your boat into a floating party. It features an adjustable stand which slides into one of the fishing rod holders, so you’ll never have to worry about spilled drinks or shattered glass on the boat again. No rod holders? No problem: there are mounting options for pontoon boat railings and more. If you’ve waited for the last minute to do your shopping, you can pick one up on Amazon. The Docktail Bar Junior is just $145 at Amazon now with a $15 coupon and will arrive in one day with free Prime shipping. However, if you’d like the best deal on the deluxe option (which even includes a cutting board that fits into one of the drink slots), the best deal to be had is on Docktail Bar’s website, where you’ll save $70 over Amazon’s price and pick this gift up for just $220. Pro tip: you can get an additional 10% off immediately if you sign up for their email list. One of the best parts about this gift is the simplicity: it comes fully assembled, so all the recipient has to do upon unwrapping it is easily slide it into the rod holder to enjoy your thoughtful gift.
Floating Water Proof Speaker – $40
You can’t have a marine party without music (or any party, for that matter) making this a perfect gift by itself or to compliment the bar above. Catch some rays while you drift around in the water listening to whatever floats your boat, from Jimmy Buffet to the Zac Brown Band. This portable speaker is normally $50, but currently has a coupon for $10 off, making it not only a great gift, but also a great deal for you. It’s marine safe, meaning it won’t be affected by salt. It’s waterproof, it floats, and has festive party lights on the top that can be turned on or off for an even better experience at night. Not only does it work with Bluetooth, but you can also easily use a memory card in it with a collection of your favorite boating tracks. For even more buoyancy on the ocean, you have the option to buy an additional floaty ring for it, which will lift it up higher to help the sound carry over the waves as well as increasing the Bluetooth range. Many types of waterproof speakers have poor sound and battery life, but reviews for this model consistently mention the great bass and all-day capability of the battery when fully charged. It’s also ruggedly constructed, so it will keep delivering great sound even after a day of being bashed up against boats by the waves.
Keep Your Precious Belongings Water Free: Affordable Dry Bags in Multiple Types and Sizes – $16 to $17
These waterproof bags from Amazon are particularly perfect for boat club members and renters because they’ll allow you to create a portable boating “kit”; just throw your bag in the car and hit the water. To be sure you have a good experience your first time using the bag, test it out by putting a water safe item inside (like a towel or some newspaper) and submerging it in the water. If the item is dry, you’ll know your bag works perfectly before you use it for more sensitive items like that expensive camera or your favorite shoes. These bags come in both 10 and 20-liter sizes for almost the same price and come in a variety of colors. And unlike hard-sided storage, these soft bags will be at home on a variety of boats, no matter the size, even kayaks and jet skis. They’re another great last-minute gift that comes with speedy Prime shipping. This bag even includes a separate waterproof case for your phone. Speaking of which…
Water Friendly Stocking Stuffers for the Whole Family: Dry Phone Cases – $12 for 4
Here’s a great mini gift or stocking stuffer that can be had on Amazon for close to $12 for a 4 pack (with free Prime shipping): waterproof phone cases with included lanyards. These cases will prevent your phone from going overboard while also keeping them safely dry. Another bonus: This case features clear PVC on both sides and allows your touchscreen to work through the material, so it won’t prevent you from taking photos, which makes this model ideal for capturing the moments during your favorite water sports (like tubing). Don’t trust your expensive phone in a case that costs so little? We always put a piece of paper inside and submerge the case when we buy a new one. You’ll immediately notice if any part of the paper becomes wet due to water entering the case, getting peace of mind before you head out boating with your precious phone.