Despite its compact size, the new Garmin inReach Mini 2 packs a punch. Boasting global Iridium satellite coverage, it ensures seamless communication even in the most remote maritime locations. Send and receive text messages, trigger an SOS signal in emergencies, access weather forecasts, share your location, and with TracBack, find your way back if you happen to get lost. Satellite subscription is required, however plans are affordable freedom-style. In our experience, when you’re out on the water, staying connected isn't only about convenience, it's a vital aspect of safety and navigation. Find it at Amazon...
2012 Sailboat of the year
The VX ONE, affordable, durable, advanced. More at VXOne…
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Popular Boat Gifts
For the hardcore boater the rugged new Apple Watch Ultra is the ultimate watch to wear. At 49mm, it is a big watch but feels similar to the old Apple Watch 45mm (the 4mm difference is only 1/16” of an inch). Unlike many big watches it also feels light. In the real world, the always-on larger screen is great for readability, plus you can crank up the font size making texting and typing much easier too. The raised titanium bezel helps protect the massive screen, so knocking around the boat is much less likely to damage. The new three microphone array gives better voice quality when you're out in the elements. The new orange action button can be used for many functions – you may wonder why all Apple Watches don’t have it. Think action button for quick access to... read more flashlight, waypoints, engaging the new Compass App or press for 5 seconds to trigger the new 86 decibel (very loud) siren. Up to 60 hours battery life (on low power setting) is a welcome addition. Mine regularly lasts for 3 days before needing a recharge. Also, it recharges very quickly. The larger knurled crown makes it easier to…
We guarantee this will be the last bucket you’ll ever buy. The Yeti Loadout Bucket is 3 times thicker, 3 inches taller, food safe, has a non-skid bottom ring and the canvas strap with wide handle is comfortable. Carry live bait, fishing gear, your weighted cast net or ice down a long dock. Out on the boat, the non-skid bottom keeps it from sliding around in the chop. Outer ring supports various accessories. We highly recommend buying the Yeti reinforced clear lid, which turns this taller bucket into the perfect stool (that even the biggest guy can reliably sit or even stand on.) So many uses here… boat, barbecue, beach, etc. It’s pricey and overbuilt, but makes the perfect gift for the boater. Find it at Amazon…
If you’re looking for a laugh from your mates, then The Legless Pirate Bottle Opener is for you. Even though he only has one leg he’s the hardest working pirate on board. Look closely and you’ll spot his eye patch plus a parrot on his right arm! In real life use, the beer bottle opener is great, but the corkscrew and foil cutter could be more "aargh-onomic" - but what do you expect from a drunken, one-legged pirate. He’s practical, fun and made from stainless steel. Comes with an integrated lanyard loop so you can attach a short rope to hang him on. Makes for a funny stocking stuffer gift for any shipwrecked sailor. Find it at Amazon…
Inflatable paddle boards are incredible pieces of technology – so tough you can literally drive over them with a truck. They're surprisingly stiff and handle similar to a solid board. The 11' Bote Flood Aero is one of the best boards on the market in 2021 (it's Bote's top entry level seller.) Made with military-grade PVC, carry system, grab handles, front and rear bungies, magnetpod, cooler ties, and it's Rac compatible too. At only 28 lbs you easily carry it to the beach or hike with it (the bag has back pack straps). Stable, light and rugged. Good for riders up to 275 lbs. Dual stage pump and SUP paddle are included. Put a big box under the tree or inflate it full-size in the living room! Find it at Amazon...
We’ve written a lot about our older JBL Flip 4 speakers and how much we love them - we liked the first one so much we bought another and put the two in stereo mode. Now that the new JBL Flip 5 is out, we thought we’d review it. The big difference is a larger improved driver (for even better sound) plus an upgrade to USB C charging. Still the same great IPX7 waterproofing, same fast Bluetooth sync and same great bass. Ours fit in the cupholder of our center console and we use them both on sea and land. For around $100 these make a great gift for the boater. We agree with the 1000’s of other 5 star reviews – highly recommended. Find it at Amazon...