One of our favorite summer activities is going on the boat with our family. We have compiled some tips and tricks learned over the last few years to ensure a smooth boat day. From jelly fish stings to hungry kids, you don’t want to be left stranded! Whether you are a seasoned pro or just getting out on the water for the first time this summer, follow these tips.
Check the tides & plan your route accordingly!
One of the best sources to check the tides is the government website, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov and click on your state and nearest location. If you are planning on hitting the sandbar, you will want to make sure that low tide aligns with the time you will be there, otherwise you will miss it! Along those lines, if you need a high tide to get into a dock or channel for where you are going for lunch, make sure you check the tides ahead of time.
Pack your bag!
You will want to have a variety of things on hand such as sunscreen, bug spray, a first aid kit, and sting reliever. Jelly fish stings really take the fun out of the day, so be prepared. You may want to pack meat tenderizer, which is an old tried and true method for relieving the pain from jelly fish stings. We also suggest you pack a hat and sunglasses.
When choosing your bag, consider this lightweight and durable canvas tote. It features a detachable shoulder strap with brass clips designed to make carrying easier. This bag can be personalized with your name, monogram, or initials.
Another classic bag are these totes that were specifically made with boats in mind! They come in two sizes and have zippered closures to keep your items secure:
Pack your cooler!
Of course, you will want to make sure that everyone stays hydrated and is well fed during your boating adventure. Be sure to pack a lot of water! Have on hand several beverage options for kids – juice, soda, or sports drinks. For adults, we like to pack a variety of adult beverages, including beer and spiked seltzers. We like this stylish box cooler that has a handle strap for easy carrying.
For food, sandwiches are always a crowd pleaser! Be sure to wrap sandwiches in tinfoil and then store in a plastic bag that zips tight (so no water can get in! No one likes a soggy sandwich). This is particularly important if you are placing your sandwiches in the same cooler as your beverages! We also like cut veggies and fruit, chips, and other snack items to bring on board.
Here are some other lunch ideas:
- Protein Rich Salads – use plastic mason jars (glass is not a good idea on the boat!) filled with salad layers. Insert lettuce, protein, veggies. Add salad dressing right before and don’t forget the forks!
- Vegetarian Sushi Rolls – using nori sheets, sushi rice, avocado, cucumber, and other favorite fillings, create sushi rolls for the boat!
- Chicken lettuce wraps – diced cooked teriyaki chicken in large lettuce cups drizzled with sauce!
- Caprese Skewers – put cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of salt and pepper and store in a Tupperware container. Keep on ice until you are ready to serve.
- Fruit Skewers are another great idea for a refreshing boat snack!
You can even pack a separate cooler with sandwiches and keep them away from the drink cooler! This large lunch cooler is 9.5” x 13.5” x 5.5” and is large enough for several sandwiches and fruit/veggie items. The insulated lining will help keep your items cool and ready to eat when you are.
Pack your boat gear!
Make sure you have lifejackets on hand for every single person on board and make sure that your youngest ones are wearing lifejackets at all times, especially if the law requires it. If you are tubing or wake boarding, don’t forget the tube and wake board but also all the extra “stuff” that goes along with it such as your tow rope and inflating device and power adapter. (Nothing worse than lugging the tube onto the boat, only to need to inflate it and have forgotten the adapter/device to inflate it!)
Bring your portable speaker!
In case the onboard audio system is having difficulty, have a back-up plan with a portable speaker where you can blast your favorite tunes. Music sets the tone for a fun boat day!
Protect your skin!
Most folks love the breeze that zipping through the water on the boat provides. But what that breeze does is make you forget how strong the sun’s rays are! Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and apply before taking off. Large hats with ways to secure them to your head (think adjustable hats or ones with straps) are also good to help block the rays. And don’t forget your sunglasses!
With these tips, we hope you have a smooth and memorable boat day with your family and/or friends. Enjoy being out on the water and that carefree summer feeling. We cannot wait!
