Baby Boating Accessories: Must-Have Gear for Your New Boater

Taking your baby on a boat can be an exciting adventure for the entire family, but it also requires careful planning and preparation. Ensuring your little one is safe, comfortable, and entertained while on the water means having the right baby boating accessories. From life jackets to sun protection, here’s a comprehensive guide to the must-have gear that every new boater should consider, including prices and specifications.

1. Infant Life Jacket

Safety should always come first when boating, and an infant life jacket is essential. Look for U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets that are specifically designed for babies and toddlers. These life jackets often come with head support, a crotch strap to prevent slipping, and a grab handle for easy lifting.

  • Recommended Product: Stearns Infant Classic Series Vest
  • Price: $30 – $40
  • Specs:
    • Weight capacity: 0-30 lbs
    • US Coast Guard-approved
    • Adjustable chest strap and leg strap for security
    • Open-sided design for comfort and mobility

2. Sun Protection: Baby Sun Hat and SPF Clothing

Sun exposure is a significant concern when out on the water, and babies have particularly sensitive skin. A wide-brimmed sun hat and UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing are essential to keep your little one safe from harmful UV rays.

  • Recommended Product: i play. by Green Sprouts Baby Sun Hat
  • Price: $12 – $18
  • Specs:
    • UPF 50+
    • Quick-dry material
    • Adjustable toggle for a snug fit
    • Available in various sizes and colors
  • Recommended Product: Coolibar UPF 50+ Baby Rash Guard
  • Price: $25 – $30
  • Specs:
    • UPF 50+ sun protection
    • Lightweight and breathable
    • Machine washable

3. Baby-Friendly Sunglasses

Just like adults, babies’ eyes need protection from the sun, especially when the water reflects sunlight. Baby sunglasses with UV protection can help protect their sensitive eyes.

  • Recommended Product: Babiators Baby Sunglasses
  • Price: $20 – $25
  • Specs:
    • 100% UV protection
    • Impact and shatter-resistant lenses
    • Flexible rubber frames
    • Available in various colors and sizes

4. Waterproof Baby Carrier

A waterproof baby carrier allows you to carry your little one hands-free, making it easier to move around the boat. Look for carriers that are made from water-resistant materials and offer secure support, so you can easily carry your baby when loading or unloading.

  • Recommended Product: Lillebaby Complete Airflow Baby Carrier
  • Price: $120 – $130
  • Specs:
    • Water-resistant and quick-drying
    • 6 carrying positions
    • Lumbar support for parent’s comfort
    • Adjustable seat and straps for babies from 7-45 lbs

5. Portable Baby Sun Tent

If you plan on docking or stopping for a beach break, a portable baby sun tent offers a great solution to provide a shaded, safe spot for your little one to rest or play. These tents are lightweight, easy to set up, and feature UPF protection to shield babies from harmful sun exposure.

  • Recommended Product: Babymoov Anti-UV Tent
  • Price: $50 – $60
  • Specs:
    • UPF 50+ sun protection
    • Pop-up assembly
    • Spacious interior (37 x 37 x 33 inches)
    • Lightweight and foldable for easy transport

6. Baby-Safe Sunscreen

Water, sun, and wind exposure mean you’ll need to reapply sunscreen often. Choose a mineral-based, baby-safe sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection (UVA and UVB). These sunscreens are typically gentler on a baby’s sensitive skin and are less likely to cause irritation.

  • Recommended Product: Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
  • Price: $13 – $16 for a 3oz tube
  • Specs:
    • Mineral-based (zinc oxide)
    • Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
    • Free of harmful chemicals (parabens, phthalates, and BPA)

7. Boat-Friendly Baby Toys

Keeping your baby entertained on a boat is key to ensuring a pleasant trip for everyone. Bring along boat-friendly, waterproof toys that are easy to clean and won’t get damaged by the water. Avoid small parts or items that could easily fall overboard.

  • Recommended Product: Munchkin Float and Play Bubbles Bath Toy
  • Price: $8 – $12
  • Specs:
    • Pack of 4 floating bubbles with animal characters inside
    • Easy to grip for small hands
    • Waterproof and durable for use in water

8. Collapsible Snack Cups

A hungry baby can quickly turn a fun outing into a stressful one. Make sure to pack plenty of snacks in a collapsible snack cup that prevents spills, even in choppy waters. These cups are designed to hold small snacks while preventing crumbs from scattering all over the boat.

  • Recommended Product: Munchkin Snack Catcher
  • Price: $6 – $10
  • Specs:
    • Spill-proof design with soft flaps
    • Holds up to 9 oz of dry snacks
    • Easy to grip handles for little hands
    • BPA-free and dishwasher safe

9. Floating Diaper Bag

A floating, waterproof diaper bag ensures that you have all of your baby’s essentials on hand without the worry of the bag getting soaked if it’s accidentally dropped in the water. These bags typically have multiple compartments for organization and can hold diapers, wipes, and extra clothes.

  • Recommended Product: Skip Hop Waterproof Diaper Bag
  • Price: $80 – $100
  • Specs:
    • Water-resistant material
    • Multiple interior pockets and insulated side pockets
    • Adjustable strap for easy carrying
    • Includes a cushioned changing pad

10. Portable Changing Pad

Changing a diaper on a boat isn’t always the easiest task, but a portable changing pad can make it much more manageable. Look for pads that are compact, waterproof, and easy to wipe down, ensuring a clean and comfortable space for your baby when diaper duty calls.

  • Recommended Product: Summer Infant QuickChange Portable Changing Pad
  • Price: $10 – $15
  • Specs:
    • Waterproof, wipe-clean surface
    • Compact fold for easy storage
    • Extra padding for baby’s comfort

Conclusion

Boating with your baby can be a memorable and enjoyable experience if you’re well-prepared with the right accessories. Safety items like infant life jackets and sun protection are non-negotiable, while comfort items like waterproof carriers and snack containers help ensure your baby is happy and entertained. Whether you’re cruising the lake or exploring the coast, these baby boating essentials will help you feel more confident on the water with your new boater. With a focus on both safety and comfort, you can ensure smooth sailing for the whole family!

Happy Boating!

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Read What is a Boat Bill of Sale? Everything You Need to Know until we meet in the next article. 

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