Looking for ideas on what to get for the boater in your life for the holidays? Use these ideas to find items every boater will love and put to great use, all while staying safe!
- Life Jackets: It’s important to always wear a life jacket during any water related activity. Make sure the life jacket fits properly, and you understand the type of life jacket you are purchasing. Shop your favorite local retailer for a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket. There are several great options from Mustang Survival, Onyx Outdoors, and many more!
- Engine Cut-Off Switches (ECOS): It’s important that every boat operator uses an ECOS any time the vessel they are operating is under power. There are several great options that make wearing an ECOS safe, convenient, and comfortable. Choose from standard lanyards, wireless ECOS fobs like Coastkey, tethered audible lanyards from Lifecord, or purchase directly from your engine manufacturer like Mercury’s FirstMate. These all serve as great ECOS options and are easy for boaters to use.
- Kayak, SUP, or Canoe: Looking to get a friend or family member out recreating on the water? Paddlesports are an affordable and easy way to experience the great outdoors, but be sure to include education and training with your gift. . All major outdoor retailers carry several paddlecraft options. Prior to purchasing any paddlecraft, make sure to brush up on all the essential safety gear.
- Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB): An emergency locator beacon is used to alert Search and Rescue assets by transmitting a coded message on the 406 MHz distress frequency via satellite to the nearest Rescue Coordination Center. An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is mounted and registered to the vessel, waterproof, and may be manually or automatically activated. Both are great and essential gifts for avid boaters.
- NSBC Boat Control On-Water Training Course – This hands-on skills based course is designed for recreational boaters. The NSBC course is verified through the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and meets the standards for Power. Upon successful completion of the course, the boat operator is more skilled in close quarters and open water maneuvers. Always remember that a confident boater is a safer boater.
For more ideas, check out your local boating retailers like West Marine, Bass Pro Shops, Academy Sports, Cabela’s, REI, and other retailers who offer boating gear.. Have a happy and safe Holiday!
