Did you know boating is one of the top recreational activities this summer? If you want to boost your boating experience, we can help.
In this guide, we’ll go over boating upgrades to improve your experience on your family boat.
Want to learn more? Keep reading.
1. Replace the Upholstery
You’ll see wear on the boat upholstery. Sand, dirt, drink, and food will stain the seats over time. Even if you take good care and clean your boat often, you might need to replace the upholstery someday.
You could always invest in some seat covers. Hire a professional boat service expert to replace the upholstery. Marine dealerships in the US will also offer upgrades on-site.
When you upgrade your seats, inspect the base of the seat. Some boats will use composite materials while others get backed with plywood. Plywood can wear down from water damage over time.
2. Sound System
When hanging with your family or friends on the water, make sure you get a good sound system.
Consider a few factors before buying a sound system. How is the range? You want a high range so people out swimming can still hear the music.
Is the system hands-free? Look for one where you can match the speakers to your phone by using Bluetooth. Make sure you have a waterproof speaker. This way, you can have it on the edge of your boat.
Look into a marine audio package that suits your needs.
3. Don’t Forget About Inflatable Tubes and Slides
Make sure you have enough inflatable tubes for your boat party. Tubes are a top accessory. Your guests can relax near the boat and float in their tube. Pick up ones that reflect the theme of the party.
A pontoon boat has enough power to drag four people behind the ride on tubes. Make sure you maintain a steady speed.
Did you find an excellent spot to anchor your boat? Your kids and guests might want to do more than drink and float around. You can pick up an inflatable slide that gets attached to the side of your boat. Slides can get expensive, but they will give your family and friends hours of fun.
4. Floating Volleyball
Do you and your friends love sports? Consider picking up a floating volleyball.
You can play a relaxed game or set up a competition. Your guests will have fun competing to win the challenge. Consider picking up a prize for the winners.
5. Inflatable Kayaks
Pick up inflatable kayaks and store them on your boat. You can go to unique places that you wouldn’t be able to reach by car.
Have a fun time exploring the open water. Go on a little trip during the morning, and in the late afternoon, head back to relax on the boat.
6. Get an Air Horn
Are you hosting a party? You will need a way to catch everyone’s attention in case of an emergency.
Consider getting an air horn. An air horn can also help alert the US Coast Guard of your location.
Look for an air horn that can get heard up to half a mile in the distance.
7. Pick up a Few Coolers
You will need to load up on food and drink before heading out. Make sure the cooler is sturdy and will keep everything cold for hours.
Make sure you have more than one so you can store food and drink in separate coolers.
8. Get an Updated Anchor System
How is your boat’s anchoring system? Is the rode still in decent condition?
Make sure you pull the anchoring system out of the water to inspect it. Spend some time on a Saturday morning to replace worn down components of your anchor system.
9. Boat Bar Caddies
If you have a lot of people hanging out on your boat, you might run out of space to put open drinks. Beer and wine could get spilled on your deck, making a big mess.
Invest in a boat bar caddy. You will have more space for food and drinks. You can install a boat bar caddy on the boat railing.
Some boat bar caddies even have a cutting board so you can prepare garnishes.
10. Do You Like to Fish?
If your guests love to go fishing, you might need a few fishing rod holders. Pick up the amount to cover those you’re hosting on your boat.
Fishing rod holders are easy to install and are sturdy. When the party is over, you can take the extra holders off and store them.
11. Safety and First Aid Kit
If someone gets hurt while boating, you’ll want to have a first aid kid. Make sure it’s filled with plenty of supplies. Replace any items that you use during your boat trip.
You should also pack aloe vera if anyone gets sunburned.
12. Keep Valuables Dry
As soon as people get on your boat, they will want someplace to stash their wallets, keys, and cellphones.
Keep valuables dry by picking up a dry box.
13. Pick up Plenty of Chargers
Make sure you have a charger on-board. Look into getting a solar-powered phone charger.
A phone is your only way to get help, so make sure it stays charged. Some people use their phone as their GPS as well.
Now You Know How to Upgrade Your Family Boat
We hope this guide on boat accessories was helpful. Take the time to consider what accessories and upgrades you need for your family boat. Don’t forget a dry box and charger to keep your phone safe and charged.
Keep browsing our other helpful resources on sports, recreation, and more.
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