6  Important Accessories You Should Have in Your Boat

If you want to make your boating experience more enjoyable, consider stocking up on quality accessories. Accessories enhance functionality, boost comfort and safety, and add convenience to your boat. Read on for six important accessories you should have in your boat to improve your time on the water.

1. Personal Floatation Devices

Safety should be a priority when on the water. Consider accessorizing your boat with life jackets, also known as Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs), to ensure that if an accident happens, you will stay above the water even when you cannot swim.

A life jacket keeps your head and airway clear for breathing and reduces the risk of drowning. Ensure you have correctly fitting life jackets for everyone in your boat before getting on the water.

2. Leaning Posts

Invest in boating leaning posts if you love fishing or spending long hours on the water. A leaning post provides comfort and support by allowing you to stand while leaning. This helps to reduce fatigue during extended periods. Go for a leaning post with added features like tackle storage, rod holders, and cutting boards to enhance your fishing experience.

3. Marine GPS

A marine GPS is an excellent addition to your boat, especially if you intend to navigate unfamiliar waters. The GPS helps you know your exact location at all times. Opt for a modern model to get additional information such as water temperatures, depth, and local marine hazards. A high-quality marine global positioning system also has mapping capabilities, helping you identify marines, fishing spots, and safe harbors.

4. Anchor and Anchor Lines

The last thing you want while boating is to have your vessel drift due to current or wind, mainly while stationary. For this reason, stock up an anchor to maintain control of your boat. You could pair it with a quality anchor line to allow you to enjoy your stay in the water without constantly repositioning the boat. Ensure you pick an anchor with the appropriate size and weight for your boat.

5. First Aid Kit

An accident on the water could happen anytime, so it is best to always have a well-stocked first aid kit in your boat. This helps you handle minor injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, and burns, while waiting for professional medical assistance if needed.

Consider investing in a marine-specific first aid kit to address the unique challenges posed by being on the water.  This includes waterproof containers, bandages, CPR masks, thermal blankets, antiseptic wipes, seasickness tablets, and pain relievers, to mention a few, to cater to boating-related injuries.

6. VHF Marine Radio

An effective way to maintain communication while on the water is by adding a VHF (Very High frequency) marine radio to your boat. VHF marine radio ensures contact with other boats, marina, and emergency services. While a personal cell phone can be helpful, it could lose signal, especially in a remote area, making VHF radio an excellent option.

VHF marine radio can help send a distress signal in an emergency. You can also receive critical navigational warnings and weather updates via VHF marine radio. Opt for a device with GPS integration to increase its usefulness, especially in emergencies.

Endnote

While boating is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, proper preparation, boat maintenance, and equipment are critical to ensuring safety and comfort. Invest in marine GPS, life jackets, a leaning post, VHF marine radio, and anchor and anchor line to confidently navigate and enjoy your time on the water.