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Top Things to Pack for Your Boat Trip

Sunscreen, sunglasses and a striped sun hat on a deck by the water

Ready to pack for a boat ride? To help you avoid turning back mid-cruise, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of what to bring on a boat trip for a fun, safe day on the water. Whether you’re heading out for a morning of fishing or a family sandbar day, knowing what to bring can make your day easier and safer.

Here’s what you should have for a day on the water:

Sun Protection

  • Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), lip balm with SPF, and aloe for later. The water reflects the sun, so you get a double dose.
  • Motion-sickness medicine, if anyone in your group needs it
  • Lightweight long-sleeve shirt (if you’re especially sensitive)
  • Wide-brimmed, stylish hat and hair ties 🙂
  • Sunglasses

Safety Equipment

Off the Hook Boating provides all U.S. Coast Guard-required safety equipment, including:

  • Personal flotation devices for all passengers
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Signaling and sound devices
  • Day and nighttime flares
  • First-aid kit

You bring a fully charged phone in a waterproof case, and you’ll know who to call: we go over that at check-in.

For Your Comfort

Conditions on the water can change from minute to minute, so you’ll want to be prepared. When creating a boat trip packing list, keep weather conditions in mind because getting a serious sunburn or freezing your you-know-what off is no fun!

  • Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes or flip-flops. With boats, there are always slippery surfaces.
  • Change of clothes – In case you get sprayed, splashed, or dunked.
  • A dry bag for the most important stuff. On a boat, things are bound to get wet!
  • Jacket – Temperatures on the water can be very different than on land.
  • Snacks and drinks, plus more water than you think you need. Bring a cooler; there is also storage under the seat cushions.
  • Bug spray for the no-see-ums near the mangroves
  • Trash and recycling bags, plus napkins or paper towels. Cleanup at the dock goes much faster.
  • Utensils, plates, and bowls
  • Hand sanitizer or wipes – Important after handling bait and fish (or just a sandwich).
  • Towels

For Fun

  • Swimsuits
  • Prepare a music playlist of your favorite tunes and hook it up to the Bluetooth stereo
  • Snorkel masks, pool noodles and a ball for the sandbar. We also rent a float mat ($49, not available on the Sea Ray) and a giant inflatable ring ($59). Ask us when you book.
  • Waterproof camera or smartphone – Capture memories of your day on the water. Bring a GoPro or binoculars! You don’t want to miss out on seeing the dolphins or manatees 🙂

Official Business: IDs and Licenses

  • Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card, if the driver was born on or after January 1, 1988. Not sure what you need? Ask us before your trip.
  • Fishing license, if you plan to fish. Anglers 16 and older generally need a Florida saltwater fishing license.
  • Boat registration: that one’s on us.

Not everyone is the same, and we are sure that you will find lots of stuff that you can’t live without, but these are some essential boating accessories you shouldn’t forget when packing for your boat day. And the most important thing, don’t forget your adventurous spirit!

Keep reading:

5 Common Boat Renter Mistakes to Avoid

The boat for this: our 22-foot pontoon has room for the cooler, the floaties and up to 13 people. Book online or call (941) 404-7900.

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