The Ultimate Gift Guide for Boaters

Looking for the perfect gift for the boater in your life? Whether they’re a weekend sailor, a dedicated yachter, or someone who simply enjoys time on the water, this gift guide is here to steer you in the right direction. Keep reading to explore our favourite items for every budget.

$10-$100

Gift certificate

If you’re stumped on exactly what to give, a gift certificate to West Marine or any local chandlery (a.k.a. a shop selling supplies and equipment for boats) is sure to go a long way. Depending on interests, this can be used for fishing supplies, marine electronics, clothing, gear, supplies, and more.

Book

For the boater taking on a new project, “This Old Boat” by Don Casey touches on every maintenance issue a boat owner is likely to face in owning a used boat. With a 4.7/5 rating on Amazon, it’s got information on electrical systems, diesel engines, refrigeration, resins, plumbing and more. In the words of one reader, “This book should be required reading for anyone who is considering purchasing and refurbishing or maintaining a used boat.”

Find the second edition new for $50, or check your local thrift store for used editions.

Dry bag

A durable dry bag helps keep essentials like phones, keys, and documents dry on the boat. These are particularly useful when getting out in the dingy or on a paddleboard. You can find sizes ranging from fanny packs to full-on duffle bags at your local outdoor store like REI or MEC.

Headlamp

Whether navigating the deck at night, exploring equipment below, or casting a line in the early morning, a hands-free headlamp offers a bright view for every scenario. We recommend the rechargeable, stormproof options from Black Diamond for reliable illumination.

Pictured: ASTRO 300-R Rechargeable Headlamp from Black Diamond

Merch from their favourite boaters

Deck out your boater’s world with merchandise from their favourite sailing stars! If their Instagram is filled with adventurers like SV Delos, Sailing Uma, and MJ Sailing, getting them gear from these personalities is a fun way for them to show off their love for the sea.

Pictured: Delos Hooded Sunshirt

Sailing knife

As a versatile tool for cutting lines and handling various onboard tasks, a sailing knife is a must-have on the water. We recommend the Victorinox 40603 Serrated Paring Knife: 3.25-in. Despite its $8.00 price point, we’ve found it the best for cutting rope and lasts longer than other knives at higher price points. Add a sheath for extra protection and portability.

$100-$500

Upgraded life jacket

While maybe not the most glamorous gift, the right life jacket makes all the difference when it comes to emergencies on the water. We’re partial to Mustang Survival’s range of personal flotation devices – a company pioneering marine safety equipment for over 55 years. They range from $200-$300 USD depending on the model. Check out their guide to choosing the right PFD, or browse their holiday gift guide.

Pictured: Mustang Survival MIT 150 Convertible A/M Inflatable PFD

Boat propane grill

Nothing elevates the boating experience like grilling on the open water. Models like the Dickinson Sea-b-que (pictured above) are designed to attach with rail mounts and use a small, disposable propane can. It’s designed to prevent flameouts in even the windiest of conditions.

Membership subscription

Give them the gift of easy boating with a subscription to apps or services that help them stay connected on the water. Here are some suggestions:

SeaTow: Provides on-water assistance and towing in case of a boat issue. (For Canadian boaters, see C-Tow)
Wavve Boating: An intuitive navigation app that offers customizable nautical charts, community-shared points of interest, tidal information, and weather forecasts so you can find the best spots (and avoid the bad ones).

Custom artwork

Document their vessel in the most beautiful way possible! Commission a local artist to create a custom painting of their boat. BRNKL Ambassador Elizabeth Earle is known for her exquisite watercolours (pictured above), and our office is decked out with her prints. Check out some examples of her custom vessel paintings here, here, and here. Reach out to her for a custom piece here!

Weather-resistant gear

Prepare your boater for all conditions with weather-resistant gear. From insulated gloves and a heated jacket to a cozy toque and sturdy boots, these essentials ensure they stay warm and dry.

Pictured: Helly Hansen Men’s Crew Hooded Sailing Jacket

$500+

Security and monitoring system

Give the gift of peace of mind with a security and monitoring system for their boat. This ensures their vessel is protected, offering real-time surveillance and alerts. With features like motion detection and GPS tracking, they can keep a watchful eye even when they’re away.

Pictured: BRNKL Security and Monitoring system

Stand-up paddleboard

This versatile watercraft is a complement to any boater’s gear, whether they’re exploring tranquil coves, cruising around the marina, or just soaking up the sun. Ideal for a leisurely paddle or a spontaneous adventure, the stand-up paddleboard brings a whole new dimension to boating.

Boat haul out

Boat maintenance often falls by the wayside, but you can turn it into a welcomed surprise! Gift them the ultimate treat – a haul-out experience. This involves lifting their boat out of the water for a thorough checkup and maintenance. Contact their marina’s maintenance manager to learn how to arrange this.

Professional marine photography session

Arrange for a professional photographer to capture images of their boat in action. For avid boaters, beautiful pictures of their vessel serve as a consistent reminder of memories made with friends and family. Better yet, find a qualified drone pilot to get the most epic vantage points.

Marine smartwatch

Give the gift of style and function with a smartwatch designed for marine adventures. This accessory helps you stay on course, track your journey, stream weather data, place waypoints, and find fish.

Pictured: Garmin quatix® 7X – Solar Edition

Give the gift of peace of mind

Learn more about gifting a security and monitoring system that protects any boat.

We’re happy to walk you through the BRNKL app, the installation process, and help build a system suited for your boat. Fill out the contact form below, or give us a call: 1-877-552-7655