Boatmodo | The Best Gifts for Boaters

Florida Keys to Exuma: A 10-Hour Run Through Bahama Blue

Dreaming of crossing to the Bahamas by boat? This beautifully shot 10-hour adventure follows a run from the Florida Keys to Great Exuma, cruising over some of the most unreal Bahama-blue water you’ll ever see. Along the way, there’s spearfishing for lobster and Nassau grouper, island scenery, and plenty of offshore eye candy. Even better, the ride is a 2025 39’ Front Runner center console powered by quad 400hp V10 Mercury outboards, with a reported top speed of 72 mph. If you love fast boats, clear water, and serious island vibes, this one’s worth the watch.

Benchmade Knife vs Cheap SOG

I came across the Mini Adira Benchmade knife that I really liked the look of. It’s the one at the top of the photo. It had all the specs I wanted: drop point, fish scale lines, lock back, ocean blue scales and a high-contrast International orange lanyard. However, I am pretty good at losing knives (in the water, in the woods, in the yard) so I decided not to “drop” over $200. What I ended up with for around $20 was the SOG Adventurer LB. I figured for that price, I could lose a dozen and still be ahead of the game. The SOG is an ounce lighter plus I had to make my own lanyard. It’s no Benchmade, but I’m happy and I like that if fits in my pocket nicely. Find it at Amazon…

A Close Encounter with the Black Pearl in Bermuda

Yesterday, in St. George’s, Bermuda, I spotted one of the most iconic sailing yachts in the world: the Black Pearl. This 106.7-meter (350-foot) marvel is a true symbol of luxury and innovation. Originally commissioned by Oleg Burlakov and launched in 2018 by Oceanco, the Black Pearl is instantly recognizable thanks to its revolutionary DynaRig sail system—three massive, rotating carbon fiber masts that each support five sails. With a total sail area of nearly 2,900 square meters, it can reach impressive speeds under sail alone. The striking black sails and sleek lines make it look like it sailed straight out of the future. More details here...

Tecsun PL-800 world band radio for boater

Review: Tecsun PL-880 – My New Favorite Boating Companion

After way too much research, I picked up a Tecsun PL-880 Radio, and it’s been a blast. As someone who’s new to shortwave, I’ve found it fun to dive into world of the electromagnetic spectrum. Learning how signals travel, bounce off the atmosphere, and land in your radio from thousands of miles away feels like tuning into the invisible rhythms of the planet. What’s impressed me about the PL-880 is how good it sounds and how easy it is to use with smooth tuning and a display that is not overwhelming. Even without an external antenna, the reception was good, but once I rigged up a 25-foot wire to my flag halyard, the signal strength really came alive. Find it at Amazon…

Recommended Tool For Cutting Paracord

Recently, I started weaving simple items from paracord – like knife lanyards, keychains, and zipper pulls. I learned that for a more polished finish, the experts recommend snipping the ends with micro-shears before melting the tips. At first, I bought some cheap clippers that ended up lasting only 10 minutes – one tip broke off on my third snip. My second pair are these XURON 410 Micro-Shear Flush Cutters, and they have stood the test of time. They use a patented bypass method that produces a clean, flat cut. I like their accuracy, sharpness, and ergonomics. The handles are made of soft-touch TPU. Recommended. Made in Saco, Maine. Find it at Amazon…

Garmin inReach Mini 2 Review for Boaters

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…

The Rugged Apple Watch Ultra Review

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

The Nearly Indestructible Yeti Loadout Bucket

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…

Drinks Ahoy! With The Legless Pirate Bottle Opener

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…

The Best Paddle Board For The Money

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…

The Best Portable Speaker for the Boater in 2021

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…

The Amazing New GoPro Hero

No other action camera matches The New GoPro Hero 9 Black. The new front display screen now lets you see what’s being recorded. This amazing camera has it all… full HD 5k video, 30% more battery life, 20 megapixel still photos, Hypersmooth 3.0 stabilization (it’s incredible), superwide mode, Time warp function, 8x slow-mo with tap, activity presets PLUS a removable protective lens. When you’re done recording edit directly in the excellent GoPro app. For boaters, this camera is waterproof right out of the box, no case needed, however, we do recommend this Floating Handgrip. Grab a 128BG memory card and you’re ready to shoot! Highly recommended. Find it at Amazon…

The Handmade Nautical Wreath

The 17” Mystic Knotwork Sailor Knot Wreath is a handsome and versatile gift for the sailor or boater. It can be hung year round, dressed up for the holidays or laid flat as a table centerpiece with vase of flowers. Perfect gift for the lake house, beach house or ocean condo. If you’re not familiar with Mystic Knotwork, they are an award-wining U.S. company located in Mystic, Connecticut (the same famous nautical town from the movie Mystic Pizza). Each wreath is expertly handmade from 44 feet of manilla rope. Limited quantities available. Find it at Amazon…

The Best RC Boat for the Money

Someone is going to love this toy boat! For the price, The Sharkool Radio Controlled Racing Boat is a blast. The speed is insane! Excellent proportional steering, water cooled motor, waterproof and self-righting (so even young kids can drive it without worry of it flipping). Plus, the steering is auto-correcting so it goes straight on straight-aways. The range is plenty far enough at 500 feet. Get two, race them (and you can keep one boat for yourself). It even comes with two rechargeable batteries for even more racing time – each battery lasts about 15 minutes. An amazing deal and a great gift for a boater. Find it at Amazon…

The Perfect Boating Knife

We love this knife. The Morakniv Floating Knife is versatile, strong, light, feels great in your hand and it floats. Unlike plastic handles, cork does not conduct cold – it feels amazing, like a fly rod handle. Believe it or not, the cork is very durable too. The fluorescent orange color stands out everywhere – you may never lose this one. The serrated blade is thin, which make it perfect for cutting rope or most anything. We even like the blunt tip which feels less likely to puncture things around the boat (including your fellow boaters). Rugged sheath included. Made in Sweden. Great gift for a boater. Editor’s Choice. Find it at Amazon…

The New Hinckley 40x

Yesterday, we drove by a brand new Hinckley 40x while in Stonington, CT. The boat is a show stopper – it had triple outboards and looked ready for adventure – I think these were Mercury Verados, but it was hard to tell. One thing that stood out was the full-width front windshield which displayed at least a 8 feet of unobstructed glass for incredible visibility. This is a versatile boat that can fish, entertain, overnight or even pull skiers. Because it’s built with lightweight carbon fiber and Kevlar, it will comfortably do 55 mph, just in case you need to get there fast. Did you know? Hinckley hulls are guaranteed for life. Christmas is coming…

The Best Boat Shoes for Men

I have wide feet, double E to be exact. Because OluKai’s have a wide toe box, they are my most comfortable boat shoes next to flip flops. I also like that they feel more like a barefoot experience, which feels natural when seas are rocking. The Nohea Moku No Ties are lightweight, quick-drying and perfect for boating (great reviews all around). I fold the back flap down when just relaxing and flip them up when I’m moving around. Not the most durable shoe out there, but they do feel great and look great! Very comfortable and the non-marring rubber soul won’t leave marks on your deck. Find it at Amazon….

The Best Gas Grill Under $300

The Weber Q1200 Series Gas Grill sits by our dock ready for a quick burger. We can easily take it to the beach too. Everywhere you look it gets top reviews. CNET gave it their top spot for “Best Portable Grill for 2020”. Here’s why… it starts easily, heats fast and has great portability. The heavy cast iron griddle can take abuse. After several years of ownership ours still looks good due to the rugged build quality and simple design. Note: If you want to hook up your own larger 20 lb. propane tank order an adapter hose. Weber Q grills are designed and manufactured in USA. If you can find a gas grill discount code or sale, this might also be the best gas grill under $200. Highly recommended. Find it at Amazon…

Two Tough Marine Bean Bags

What are the best marine bean bags? There are two solid choices and the benefits are worth it. Bean bags on the boat are lifesavers on the way to fishing grounds, back savers on a choppy day and kid savers when they get restless or overtired. They offer comfort, shock absorption and a fun place to relax. Marine-specific bean bags are tough too – they repel water, have double-stitched seams and integrated grab handles (which are critical for tying down). Our fishing guide friends have had their sets for over 4 years and they get used a lot. E-SeaRiders and Ocean Tamers are the best, both are made in Florida. Our favorites are the teardrop style which give better back and neck support. A great boating gift and money well spent. Find it at Amazon…

Our Favorite Soap

We use Swedish Dream Sea Salt Soap everyday because it lathers up nicely and smells good. After a few washes the outer layer reveals random salt crystals that subtly exfoliate with rich, creamy lather. The smell is fresh, clean and invigorating… a bit like the salty ocean air. It lasts a long time – we even shave with it. Made in USA. Makes a great stocking stuffer for the sailor in your life. Find it at Amazon…

The New SOG Keychain Knife

The updated 2020 version of SOG’s Keychain Knife is our new favorite little keychain knife. This version is better in so many ways… it’s 100% stainless, beer opener, locking blade with easy-open cutout, a keyring that hinges, plus the handle is now a handsome mat finish. It’s 3 practical tools in one… a bottle opener, a keyring, and a compact 2” blade so you’re always prepared for opening boxes, cutting fishing line or any task that may come up. SOG calls this The Keytron. Designed in USA, SOG products have won favor among law enforcement, military and industrial customers that rely on their tools to perform flawlessly in the toughest, most adverse conditions. Perfect gift for the boater or sailor. Recommended. Find it at Amazon…

Top 10 Gifts For Boaters 2019

Wish you could find the best gift for the boater in your life? Well now you can because we’ve hand-tested some excellent options for you. Welcome to the 2019 list of Ten Best Gifts for Boaters.

Our Favorite Small Dry Bag

I keep my phone, wallet, keys and electronics in my Yeti Sidekick Dry Bag. The best part is how easy the top opens and closes – no snaps, no rolling flaps, and no zippers. The secret is the magnetic HydroShield strip – once closed you can’t even force air out. It’s 100% waterproof, it floats too. Attaches to other Yeti products or any belt for hiking, river or beach. We think you will be impressed with the fast magentic lock and useful size. Ours gets used more than expected. Find it at Amazon…

The Boat in Gemini Man

The trailer for the new movie Gemini Man is out. The action-thriller stars Will Smith as he battles against a clone of his younger self. Look closely and you may notice one scene (around the one minute mark) with an aerial shot of Smith driving a very stylish boat – that boat is the waterjet powered Hinckley 34R. Filmed in and around historic Tybee Island on Georgia’s coast, the movie debuts in October 2019. View The Official Movie Trailer or The Hinckley Yachts coffee table book at Amazon…

Our Favorite App for Boating

On a daily basis, we use Ocean Watch App to tell us the current and future tide levels. We like it because it’s simple, well-designed and easy to read quickly. Is this afternoon looking good for a dinner cruise? Fishing an incoming tide? Will Saturday morning be high tide? Download Ocean Watch App, we highly recommend it. Available for iPad, iPhone and Apple Watch. Free at OceanWatchApp.com…

Boat of the Month | Feb 2019

Recently, we had a Boston Whaler 380 Outrage pass by us near North Captiva Island and she was stunning. The 380 replaces the 370 with a redesigned hull plus many thoughtful refinements, both inside and out. With a top speed of 50 mph you’ll get where you want to go quickly. Dream big – this boat has it all. Review at boattest.com…

Our Favorite Portable Waterproof Boat Speaker

For the money, the JBL Flip 4 Bluetooth Speaker is as good as it gets for the boater. The sound quality is great, bass is good, charge lasts a long time, bluetooth pairing is easy (unlike some others), plus it’s Ipx7 waterproof and rugged. We liked it so much we just picked up a spare and the stereo function works really well. It also features a built-in noise and echo cancelling speakerphone for crystal clear phone calls. Around the boat, these little speakers can take a beating – we store ours in the boat’s cup holder and have dropped it many times with no issues. Available in multiple colors, but we chose white to reduce heat from the sun and to match our boat. If you’re on the fence, try one, you won’t regret it. It’s a great value with many uses… yard, camp, workshop, kayak, pool. Find it at Amazon…

The Mug For Boaters

The Yeti Rambler Mug has become our go-to mug. Out on the boat, in any weather, it keeps our coffee hot for about half an hour. The handle is bigger than normal – which is good if you’re wearing gloves or have wet hands. The larger size makes it perfect for soups, stews or the end of the day drink (add your icy cocktail and it stays that way.) Super rugged, a great gift for a boater that will last a lifetime. Find it at Amazon…

Our Favorite T-Shirt

John McCain, JFK, Sean Connery, Morgan Freeman, Johnny Cash, Leonard Nimoy… all Navy men. We are big fans too. And this Classic Navy T-shirt let’s us show our support. Soft material, great fit and excellent ink quality. We think the simple combination of dark blue and yellow look great together. Bonus: One sleeve has an understated American flag (and it’s facing the right direction.). Find it at Amazon…

Upgrade Your Dock

Every dock should have a DockGrip. Ours does and we love it. This new invention makes getting in and out of the boat easier, steadier and safer (especially since boaters usually have their hands full). It’s made in the USA from aircraft-grade welded aluminum with a powder-coat silver grey finish. This is a premium marine product meant to last and comes with a 20 year warrantee. Give your guests a safe, luxurious yacht-like experience with DockGrip. Learn more at DockGrip.com. Highly recommended.

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