Beat the Heat – Stay Cool and Comfortable on Your Boat

When the summer sun is blazing, spending time on your boat can be a delightful escape—if you stay cool. Whether you’re setting sail for a day of fishing, cruising, or just relaxing on the water, staying comfortable in the heat is key to enjoying a relaxing outing. Here are some tips on how to stay cool and enjoy your boating adventures.
  • A boater wearing breathable clothing to stay cool

    1. Wear Light, Breathable Clothing

    Choose clothing made from lightweight, quick-dry material that allows your skin to breathe. Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight, whereas dark colors absorb heat. Hats with wide brims can provide additional shade and protect your face and neck from the sun’s rays.

  • 2. Bring a Cooler with Ice Packs

    Keep your cooler stocked with ice packs or gel packs to cool down quickly. Place ice packs on your neck or wrists for instant relief. A cooler also helps keep your food and drinks cold, providing added comfort during your outing. For an extra boost, store your sunscreen in the cooler to enjoy a soothing, cooling effect when you reapply.

  • 3. Invest in Cooling Towels

    Cooling towels are designed to absorb water and provide a cooling effect when draped around your neck or shoulders. Simply wet the towel, wring it out, and place it where needed. These towels can provide instant relief from the heat and help lower your body temperature.
  • Boaters having an evening outing to beat the heat

    4. Schedule Outings Wisely

    Try and plan your boating trips during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. The sun is less intense during these times, which can make your time on the water much more pleasant. Avoid midday outings if you can since the sun will be at its peak. 

  • 5. Prepare Your Food Beforehand

    It can get hot in the galley when cooking food for your crew! An easy way to avoid this is to prepare your food ahead of time and bring it onboard in storage containers. Then, you can eat whenever you want without having to work up a sweat in the process. 

  • 6. Opt for Light Snacks

    Heavy, greasy foods can make you feel sluggish and overheated. Instead, opt for light, hydrating snacks like fruits and vegetables. Watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges are not only refreshing but also high in water content, helping you stay hydrated. Explore our collection of boat-friendly recipes for delicious options to bring along on your next outing.
  • Boaters enjoying cold drinks in warm weather

    7. Ice Cold Drinks

    There's nothing quite like sipping a refreshing drink while on your boat—and it tastes even better as a way to cool off! Looking for a new drink recipe to try? We've got some delicious suggestions for the next time you're going out on the water.

  • 8. Hang Out in the Shade

    On a sweltering summer day when the sun seems relentless, having shade on your boat can make all the difference. Whether it's a hard top or a Bimini top, finding refuge from the sun's harsh rays offers a welcome and refreshing relief.

  • 9. Hop on a Paddle Board and Explore

    Venture away from your boat and feel the breeze, cool water, and fresh air aboard a stand-up paddleboard. It's also a great place to view a sunset!
  • Ladies floating on the lake

    10. Float On

    Sometimes, all you need is to relax just a few feet from your boat with your feet dipped into the cool water. Achieve this perfect moment of bliss with an inflatable raft—perhaps with a refreshing drink in hand!

  • 11. Take Breaks

    Take breaks to cool off if you’re spending long hours on the boat. Find a shaded area or return to the dock periodically to rest and refresh. This helps prevent overheating and ensures you stay comfortable throughout your adventure. 
  • Boaters cruising on the water to stay cool

    12. Keep it Moving

    Let the power of the boat do the work for you! Go for a cruise and let the breezy air cool you down as you take in the sights and smells of the water around you. Before you know it, you'll be feeling refreshed and ready for your next adventure. 
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