A compact waterproof speaker earns its storage space on a boat because it works in the cockpit, on the beach, and during dinghy trips. Prioritize a grippy or clip-on design, USB-C charging, and enough battery for a full day rather than the biggest speaker on the shelf.

Liveaboard approved: I actually have two, one countertop style that I can bluetooth to my TV for better sound quality, and one smaller clip-on style that I bring along on hikes and paddleboard adventures. 

Typical price: $30–$150

She Seas pick: Anker Soundcore 2 waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker — SHOP: Amazon

Stainless drinkware keeps coffee hot and cold drinks cold without adding breakable glass to the galley. Stackable cups with secure lids and a base that fits standard cup holders are especially useful aboard.

Liveaboard approved: Our boat sleeps eight, so I have eight of these onboard for guests to use. They don’t rust or crack, and always keeps drinks cold.

Typical price: $20–$60

She Seas pick: YETI Rambler insulated tumbler with MagSlider lid — SHOP: Amazon

Marine binoculars are useful for reading channel markers, checking anchorages, and spotting wildlife. A waterproof, fog-resistant 7×50 pair is easier to steady on a moving deck; a floating strap is a smart add-on.

Liveaboard approved: A good pair of binoculars are vital for responsible boating, and fun for animal watching!

Typical price: $80–$400

She Seas pick: USCAMEL waterproof marine binoculars with rangefinder compass — SHOP: Amazon

A well-organized first aid kit is one of the most practical gifts on this list. Choose waterproof storage and supplies appropriate for cuts, burns, sprains, and seasickness, then remind the owner to add personal medications and replace expired items.

Liveaboard approved: Someone is always getting scratched, scrapped, or seasick. Save yourself and boat guests from a miserable day.

Typical price: $30–$150

She Seas pick: 152-piece waterproof first aid kit in a dry bag — SHOP: Amazon

Small, useful, and easy to gift: a corrosion-resistant bottle opener with a magnet or fixed mounting point is less likely to vanish into a cockpit locker. It is a fun extra, not precious boat storage clutter.

Liveaboard approved: This is adorable. Corrosion-resistant and works as a magnetic so they won’t lose it.

Typical price: $10–$30

She Seas pick: shark-shaped magnetic stainless-steel bottle opener — SHOP: Amazon

Waterproof cards handle wet hands, cockpit tables, and surprise rain better than a paper deck. They pack flat, work for dozens of games, and are perfect for evenings at anchor or weather days below.

Liveaboard approved: Humidity and stuffy-cabins alone are enough to make regular cards damp. These look great and boaters can take them to the beach without fear of ruining them.

Typical price: $8–$20

She Seas pick: Hoyle waterproof clear playing cards — SHOP: Amazon

An inflatable SUP gives a new boat owner a tender alternative, workout, and easy way to explore shallow water. Check the packed dimensions first and look for a stable all-around shape, repair kit, leash, pump, and backpack.

Liveaboard approved: A little pricier but they will get years of adventures out of a paddleboard and it deflates to stow away, taking up less storage than a large backpack.

Typical price: $250–$900

She Seas pick: ROC inflatable stand-up paddleboard kit — SHOP: Amazon

A backpack-style dry bag makes provisioning runs and beach landings much easier while keeping clothes and electronics protected from spray. A comfortable harness, welded seams, and a roll-top closure matter more than decorative extras.

Liveaboard approved: Another vital accessory they won’t consider until they realize they need one. Protect phones, cameras, towels, drinks, and snacks in the drybag and then jump in the water and swim to shore for a beach day.

Typical price: $30–$100

She Seas pick: Earth Pak waterproof dry bag — SHOP: Amazon

A satellite communicator can provide off-grid messaging, tracking, and SOS capability where cellular service disappears. Confirm the device, plan, and coverage suit the owner’s cruising area before gifting it.

Liveaboard approved: If you’re a worried loved one (like my mom) this will truly give you peace of mind. I have one and we have used it to send messages to family when on long offshore passages, as well as getting weather updates. When they’re not sailing, they can throw this into a backpack in case of emergencies when hiking or somewhere out of cell range.

Typical price: $250–$600, plus a subscription

She Seas pick: Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator — SHOP: Amazon

A washable, open-top tote is ideal for wet towels, snorkeling gear, farmers-market produce, and everything that migrates between boat and shore. Look for a stable base, easy-clean material, and handles that are comfortable when the bag is full.

Liveaboard approved: Great choice for any kind of boater. Whether it’s a beach day or cleaning supplies, I promise they will find use for this.

Typical price: $25–$100

She Seas pick: Fasrom large mesh beach bag with wet/dry separation — SHOP: Amazon

Reusable insulated bottles reduce single-use plastic and keep water cold in a hot cockpit. Choose a leak-resistant lid, a size that fits the boat’s cup holders, and a shape that is easy to clean.

Liveaboard approved: Help remind them to stay cool and hydrated.

Typical price: $20–$50

She Seas pick: Stanley IceFlow insulated water bottle — SHOP: Amazon

Paper charts and cruising guides remain useful for planning and as a backup to electronics, but they must match the boat owner’s actual region. Ask where they cruise before buying, and choose the newest available edition.

Liveaboard approved: Chartplotters are expensive and electronics can fail. Make sure they have backup charts.

Typical price: $25–$75

She Seas pick: U.S. Chart No. 1, 13th Edition — SHOP: Amazon

A waterproof floating phone pouch protects a phone during dinghy rides, paddleboarding, and beach landings while keeping it accessible for photos. Verify the case fits the owner’s phone and test the seal before first use.

Liveaboard approved: I have a handful of these for myself and guests. It’s a great option for snorkeling if you don’t have waterproof camera housing. And new ones like my choice from Pelican actually take clear, vibrant photos.

Typical price: $20–$100

She Seas pick: Pelican Marine waterproof floating phone pouch — SHOP: Amazon

Navigation electronics can be a generous gift, but compatibility is everything. Confirm helm space, charts, transducer requirements, power, and the owner’s preferred system before purchasing; a gift card may be smarter if you cannot check.

Liveaboard approved: The most expensive gift on this list, but someone they will use every day as long as they have a boat. Electronic chartplotters also come with regularly updated charts, so they will always have the most recent information to stay safe and smart.

Typical price: $300–$2,000+

She Seas pick: Garmin GPSMAP chartplotter with Navionics+ — SHOP: Amazon

A non-slip mat helps trap sand and adds traction at a companionway or cockpit entrance. Choose quick-drying, UV-resistant material, and measure the space before ordering—especially for a personalized mat.

Liveaboard approved: Save your boater from the headache of sweeping up sand every day. 

Typical price: $40–$200

She Seas pick: personalized Welcome Aboard boat mat — SHOP: Amazon

Compact games are excellent entertainment aboard, especially when pieces are magnetic or contained so they do not scatter with every wake. Pick games the crew already enjoys and avoid oversized boxes that waste locker space.

Liveaboard approved: I love these compact versions of classic games. Everyone loves an afternoon of boardgames on the boat and these won’t take up a full cabinet worth of space.

Typical price: $15–$50

She Seas pick: Scrabble to Go travel game — SHOP: Amazon

Fishing equipment is highly personal, so a waterproof tackle organizer or gift card is safer than guessing at a rod and reel. If you know the owner’s target species and cruising waters, choose corrosion-resistant saltwater gear accordingly.

Liveaboard approved: I wish I had been more organized with my fishing gear when I first started. It would have saved me a multi-day project down the road. 

Typical price: $50–$500+

She Seas pick: PLUSINNO fishing accessories kit — SHOP: Amazon

A rail-mounted marine grill can turn the cockpit into an outdoor galley, but fuel type, rail size, and safe mounting location all matter. Confirm compatibility with the owner before buying a grill as a surprise.

Liveaboard approved: Every mouth in the anchorage will be watering when they smell steaks or pizzas cooking off the back of the boat. This is a fantastic gift, can be placed in different areas, with different configurations, and is probably something they won’t think to get for themselves. Portable gas cans make filling easy.

Typical price: $150–$500

She Seas pick: Cuisinart Petite Gourmet portable gas grill — SHOP: Amazon

A durable cooler extends cold storage for day trips, fishing, and entertaining. Measure the intended locker or deck space and prioritize secure latches, easy-drain cleaning, and a size one person can still move.

Liveaboard approved: I will never live without one again. When I fill mine with ice and drinks, it will stay cold for 2-3 days. An absolute lifesaver when fridge space is at a premium. Also great for keeping fresh caught fish cold.

Typical price: $100–$450

She Seas pick: RTIC Ultra-Light 32-quart hard cooler — SHOP: Amazon

A floating telescoping boat hook helps with docking, picking up moorings, and retrieving escaped gear. Models that lock securely and collapse short enough for a locker are the easiest to live with.

Liveaboard approved: These are incredibly handy when docking, vital if picking up a mooring ball, and great to have if something falls overboard, or you want to pick up litter at sea. Always choose a floating one (taken it from me, I’ve lost two, and they sink fast.)

Typical price: $30–$150

She Seas pick: STAR BRITE telescoping floating boat hook — SHOP: Amazon

A useful starter cleaning kit includes a soft deck brush, microfiber cloths, and boat-safe cleaners. Avoid gifting harsh household chemicals; marine materials and the water around the boat need products intended for the job.

Liveaboard approved: This is a great starter kit for cleaning.

Typical price: $30–$120

She Seas pick: Better Boat marine cleaning kit — SHOP: Amazon

A waterproof action camera is a fun upgrade for snorkeling, sailing, and dinghy adventures. Factor in mounts, spare batteries, and a floating grip—the small accessories often determine whether it actually gets used.

Liveaboard approved: If you want to see their adventures, help capture them. I love my GoPro, they’re nearly impossible to break, have great battery life, and GoPro has an incredible array of attachments and accessories so they can use the camera for whatever they do.

Typical price: $200–$500

She Seas pick: GoPro HERO11 Black waterproof action camera — SHOP: Amazon

A folding solar charger can top up phones and small USB devices during beach trips or outages. Treat it as supplemental power, not a replacement for the boat’s charging system, and check output ports and weather resistance.

Liveaboard approved: Take it to the beach, never run out of battery.

Typical price: $40–$200

She Seas pick: BLAVOR solar power bank — SHOP: Amazon

A comfortable PFD is far more likely to be worn, but fit and certification are personal. Confirm sizing, activity, and the safety standard required where the boat operates before buying; never choose on appearance alone.

Liveaboard approved: Buy them a PFD they will actually want to wear. Old ones are bulky and very uncomfortable. These are light and compact with adjustable straps, they will barely notice it’s on.

Typical price: $40–$250

She Seas pick: ONYX A/M-24 inflatable USCG-approved life jacket — SHOP: Amazon

Warm solar lights make the cockpit more inviting without adding wiring or drawing from the house batteries. Use them for ambiance and courtesy lighting only—not as a substitute for required navigation or anchor lights.

Liveaboard approved: Luci lights are the darlings of the boating community. Solar powered, silicone collapsible body, and a warm glow. Bring em out to charge up, enjoy the ambiance, then stow away flat, taking no space.

Typical price: $20–$100

She Seas pick: MPOWERD Luci Pro Lux solar lantern and charger — SHOP: Amazon

A bright floating keychain is inexpensive insurance for keys used around docks and dinghies. Cork or foam styles are easy to spot, but test buoyancy with the actual key set before trusting it over deep water.

Liveaboard approved: They will one day drop their keys overboard. And they will thank you for this.

Typical price: $8–$20

She Seas pick: DriftFish floating keychain — SHOP: Amazon

A compact multi-port charging station reduces cable chaos when everyone needs power at once. Confirm the boat’s voltage and outlet setup, and look for USB-C Power Delivery plus a secure mounting or non-slip base.

Liveaboard approved: Everyone needs a charge now and then. Make it easy for everyone onboard and have a station.

Typical price: $30–$150

She Seas pick: Anker 7-in-1 USB-C docking station — SHOP: Amazon

An automatic bilge pump can be valuable safety equipment, but capacity, hose size, wiring, and installation must match the boat. This is best gifted with the owner’s input—or paired with money toward professional installation.

Liveaboard approved: You can also ask if they already have bilge pumps, what kind and get them backups. The motors are notorious for burning out.

Typical price: $60–$250

She Seas pick: automatic 12V submersible bilge pump — SHOP: Amazon

A waterproof floating flashlight belongs near the companionway for night arrivals, deck checks, and emergencies. Choose simple controls, a visible body, rechargeable or commonly available batteries, and a lanyard.

Liveaboard approved: Really important safety gear if they sleep overnight on the boat, or come in to harbors near or after dusk. Help the captain see bouys, markers, and other hazards in the water.

Typical price: $30–$150

She Seas pick: YIERBLUE rechargeable waterproof spotlight — SHOP: Amazon

A handheld VHF is useful in the dinghy, on deck, and as a backup if the fixed radio loses power. Look for a floating, waterproof model with weather channels, straightforward controls, and charging that works with the boat’s system.

Liveaboard approved: I take ours everytime we leave the boat to go somewhere on the dinghy. Anything can happen whether you’re on the beach, hiking, or on a water excursion. Phones can die or have no signal, and this will radio to the nearest boaters who can actually help, not a family member 1,000 miles away.

Typical price: $100–$250

She Seas pick: Standard Horizon HX210 floating handheld VHF — SHOP: Amazon

A sun hat with real coverage and a secure chin strap is more useful on a breezy boat than a fashionable hat that immediately blows overboard. Quick-drying fabric and ventilation make it comfortable in tropical weather.

Typical price: $25–$80

Liveaboard approved: Another vital accesory not just for skin health but to actually see without sun glare. The chin strap will save the hat from a watery grave next time there’s a big gust.

She Seas pick: MISSION Sun Defender wide-brim hat — SHOP: Amazon

A lightweight UPF shirt adds reliable coverage during long days on deck. Choose a breathable, quick-drying fabric and the owner’s preferred fit; thumbholes, a hood, and a high collar add extra protection.

Liveaboard approved: I probably have a dozen of these, and I’m grateful when I’m gifted more. I use them everytime I go swimming, but also when I’m doing boat work so they tend to get dirty fast. A fresh top is always appreciated.

Typical price: $25–$100

She Seas pick: Columbia Terminal Deflector long-sleeve sun shirt — SHOP: Amazon

Chafe protection helps extend the life of dock and mooring lines where they rub against fairleads or rough surfaces. Measure the line diameter and inspect the setup first—guards complement regular line checks rather than replacing them.

Liveaboard approved: Whether they dock, anchor, or moor, these come in handy. Line chafe is one of the most annoying but unavoidable problems. Easy to use chafe guards last a long time and will save your boater from shelling out hundreds of dollars for new lines every season.

Typical price: $20–$80

She Seas pick: XIALUO removable dock-line chafe guards — SHOP: Amazon

A boating logbook gives new owners one place for passages, fuel, maintenance, weather, and useful notes. Water-resistant paper and a simple layout are more likely to survive cockpit life and become a lasting habit.

Liveaboard approved: A classic throwback. New and seasoned boaters will appreciate this practical gift not only to use in the moment, but to look back on all their adventures as the years pass.

Typical price: $15–$40

She Seas pick: BookFactory Captain’s Log Book — SHOP: Amazon

A respected maintenance reference helps owners understand onboard electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems and ask better questions when repairs get complicated. Choose the newest edition available and remember that manuals do not replace qualified help for hazardous work.

Liveaboard approved: Moving on or maintaining a boat is just like buying a house. You have to learn electrical systems, plumbing, motors, cosmetic repairs, etc. Give them a headstart and something to reference.

Typical price: $25–$70

She Seas pick: Don Casey’s Complete Illustrated Sailboat Maintenance Manual — SHOP: Amazon