Aquatic Assistance: Handy Gadgets for the Boating Life
If you’re reading this, you most likely already know that boating is a fantastic way to enjoy the water. But having the right gadgets can make your experience safer, more convenient and even more enjoyable.
In addition to the very handy, and necessary, GPS and VHF radios, fish finders, EPIRBs, life jackets and other essential safety gear, there are a variety of gadgets designed to simplify the boating life. Whether you're a seasoned mariner navigating the big blue or a weekend enthusiast cruising the local lake, here are some handy gadgets that every boat owner should consider having on board.
Automatic Bilge Pump
Water can accumulate in your boat’s bilge due to rain or leaks. An automatic bilge pump helps keep your boat dry by removing excess water without requiring manual operation. It’s an excellent piece of gear to have on board if it your boat sits in a marina or private boat dock rental while not in use.
Portable Power Bank and Solar Charger
Keeping your devices charged is crucial, especially on longer trips. A waterproof power bank or solar charger can provide energy for GPS devices, phones and emergency lights whether you’re out at sea or relaxing at a private boat lift for rent.
Lighting
If you’re fishing and boating at night, spotlights, LED navigation and deck lights are essential gadgets to have on board. LED lights are energy-efficient and improve visibility at night. Proper navigation lights ensure compliance with maritime laws, while deck lights enhance safety and convenience when moving around the boat and navigating after dark.
Smart Anchor System
An electronic or remote-controlled anchor windlass system makes setting and retrieving your anchor easier. It also saves time and effort when anchoring out for a day of fishing, sunning and watersports.
Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Enhance your boating experience with a waterproof Bluetooth speaker. This handy device lets you enjoy music, podcasts or the radio while on the water. It’s also convenient for listening to navigational directions.
Multi-Tool or Marine Knife
A high-quality multi-tool or marine knife is indispensable for cutting ropes, making repairs or handling emergencies. Use it for everything from fishing to slicing through the catch of the day.
Non-Slip Mats and Grip Tape
Prevent slips and falls on deck by using non-slip mats or grip tape in high-traffic areas, ensuring a safer boating experience for everyone on board. Gator Guards, Oceanbroad and SeaDek are just a few of the companies to check out for non-slip grip.
Dry Bags
Keep your valuables, electronics and spare clothes dry by storing them in waterproof dry bags, especially during rough conditions. Whether it’s your main ditch bag or just needed to keep things dry during rough conditions, you’ll thank yourself with this purchase. Montem and Sea to Summit are a few brands that make top-quality dry bags.
Telescoping Boat Hook
When was the last time one of the kids dropped a hat overboard? Knowing kids, probably every single boating trip you’ve ever taken. A telescoping boat hook is an indispensable piece of gear to have on hand for situations just like that. It helps with docking, retrieving items from the water and securing lines at mooring buoys, marinas and private boat slips for rent.
Underwater Camera
Capture incredible underwater footage or check on your boat’s hull with an underwater camera or drone, adding an extra layer of exploration and maintenance capabilities to your adventures. The Nikon Coolpix is my favorite for snorkeling, the waterpark and boating in general (you just never know when a splash might come over the deck).
Collapsible Water Bucket
A lightweight collapsible water bucket is useful for rinsing off gear, washing the deck or even collecting rainwater in survival situations. When it’s not needed, simply collapse it down for easy storage.
Accessory Holders
From cups and water bottles to fishing rods, electronics, watersports gear and more, there are always going to be items you want secured in place to prevent rolling around on deck, getting wet when they’re not supposed to be wet or tripping you up as you’re walking from one side to the other. This is where one of my favorite marine accessory companies comes into play.
For fishing rod and board sports gear holders — as well as utility hooks, tool holders, cleats and cutting boards — head straight to SeaSucker.com. You can find all of the above items as well as some you may not have even thought of. Hand grips, anyone?
You don’t even have to drill holes or install through-hull fittings. These life-savers work via suction (like that plastic disc that holds the suncatchers onto Grandma’s windows, but way stronger). These things can hold a bike on a car, for goodness sake!
