10 Fun Things to Do on a Boat

Boating offers an unparalleled opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, embrace the tranquility of open water, and enjoy quality time with friends and family. Whether you’re an experienced boater or a first-timer, there’s a wide range of activities you can enjoy on a boat. From relaxing pastimes to thrilling water sports, here are 10 fun things to do on a boat, along with price estimates and tips on the necessary gear.

1. Fishing: Catch Your Next Meal

Fishing is one of the most popular boating activities. Whether you’re fishing in freshwater or saltwater, boating gives you access to prime fishing spots that are inaccessible from land.

What You Need:

  • Fishing Gear: Rods, reels, bait, tackle box (from $50 to $500+ depending on quality and type).
  • Boat Requirements: Any boat with enough space for fishing gear works, but a fishing boat like the Bass Tracker Classic XL ($14,000) or Boston Whaler 170 Montauk ($30,000) is ideal.
  • License: Don’t forget to obtain a fishing license, which ranges from $20 to $50 depending on your location.

Why It’s Fun:

Fishing from a boat allows you to chase fish in deeper waters or around structures where fish tend to congregate. It’s a rewarding activity that combines relaxation with the excitement of reeling in a big catch.

2. Wakeboarding and Waterskiing

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, wakeboarding and waterskiing are exhilarating water sports perfect for boaters of all ages.

What You Need:

  • Wakeboard/Waterskis: Wakeboards cost between $150 and $600, and waterskis range from $100 to $800.
  • Tow Rope: About $50 to $150 for a sturdy rope.
  • Boat: A powerful boat with a good wake, such as the MasterCraft XStar ($100,000+) or Nautique G23 (around $130,000), is perfect for pulling wakeboarders and skiers.

Why It’s Fun:

Skimming across the water behind a speeding boat gives you a thrill like no other. Plus, it’s a great way to stay active and improve balance.

3. Tubing: Fun for All Ages

Tubing is one of the easiest and most accessible water activities for all ages. It involves riding on an inflatable tube towed by the boat.

What You Need:

  • Inflatable Tube: Prices range from $50 to $300.
  • Tow Rope: About $50 to $100.
  • Boat: Almost any boat with towing capability, such as a pontoon or speedboat, can tow a tube. Try the Yamaha AR195 ($47,000) for a fun day on the water.

Why It’s Fun:

Tubing is a fun and simple activity that doesn’t require much skill. It’s also perfect for families, as multiple people can ride on larger tubes.

4. Swimming and Snorkeling

Anchor your boat in a quiet cove, and dive into crystal-clear waters to explore what lies beneath. Swimming and snorkeling offer a refreshing way to connect with nature.

What You Need:

  • Snorkeling Gear: Mask, snorkel, and fins cost between $30 and $150.
  • Boat: Any boat will do, but boats with swim platforms like the Sea Ray SDX 270 ($125,000) are ideal for easy water access.

Why It’s Fun:

You get to swim in serene locations away from crowded beaches and explore underwater worlds filled with fish, coral, and marine life.

5. Picnic on the Water

Why settle for a crowded park when you can have a picnic on a boat with spectacular water views? Pack your favorite snacks and beverages, anchor in a peaceful bay, and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.

What You Need:

  • Cooler: Prices range from $20 to $300 depending on size and insulation quality.
  • Boat: A comfortable pontoon like the Bennington S21 (around $35,000) is perfect for leisurely picnics on the water.

Why It’s Fun:

Picnicking on a boat provides a unique dining experience. You can bask in the sun, watch the waves, and enjoy good food with your favorite company.

6. Sunbathing

Relaxing on your boat with the sun overhead and the sound of the water lapping against the hull is one of the simplest yet most enjoyable things to do on a boat.

What You Need:

  • Sunscreen and Towels: Essential for a safe day under the sun, expect to spend $15 to $50.
  • Boat: A boat with a comfortable sun deck like the Crownline E255 (around $75,000) is perfect for sunbathing.

Why It’s Fun:

Sunbathing on a boat offers ultimate relaxation, letting you soak up some vitamin D while enjoying the peacefulness of being on the water.

7. Scuba Diving

For those certified in scuba diving, boating allows you to reach dive sites teeming with marine life and underwater scenery. Boaters can explore reefs, shipwrecks, and caves.

What You Need:

  • Scuba Gear: Prices for scuba gear range from $1,000 to $3,000. Renting equipment is also an option.
  • Boat: A dive boat like the EdgeWater 262CX (around $130,000) offers great storage for scuba tanks and gear.

Why It’s Fun:

Scuba diving gives you access to the underwater world, offering a sense of adventure and discovery you can’t get on land.

8. Camping on a Houseboat

If you’re up for an extended adventure, houseboat camping is a unique way to spend time on the water. You can dock at a marina or a secluded cove and sleep under the stars.

What You Need:

  • Houseboat: Renting a houseboat can cost between $500 to $1,500 per day. If you’re buying, the price can start at $100,000 and go up.
  • Camping Gear: Additional camping gear, such as sleeping bags and portable grills, ranges from $50 to $200.

Why It’s Fun:

Houseboat camping allows you to combine boating with the experience of sleeping on the water, offering both the comfort of home and the adventure of the outdoors.

9. Wildlife Watching

Boating provides access to unique ecosystems where you can observe wildlife in its natural habitat. From dolphins and whales to birds and fish, wildlife watching is a peaceful and educational activity.

What You Need:

  • Binoculars and Camera: Binoculars cost around $50 to $300, while a good camera can range from $300 to $2,000.
  • Boat: A quiet boat like the Ranger Tug R-23 (around $150,000) is ideal for wildlife watching as it allows you to approach animals without disturbing them.

Why It’s Fun:

You can see animals up close in their natural environment, making this a great activity for nature lovers and photographers alike.

10. Exploring New Destinations

Boating allows you to reach hidden gems like remote islands, secluded beaches, and waterfront towns. Whether you’re exploring locally or going on a longer cruise, discovering new places by boat is an exciting adventure.

What You Need:

  • Navigation System: A GPS system for your boat costs between $200 and $1,500.
  • Boat: For long-range exploring, a cruiser like the Sea Ray Sundancer 320 (around $280,000) is perfect.

Why It’s Fun:

Exploring by boat gives you the freedom to discover places that aren’t accessible by land, offering a sense of adventure and new experiences.

Conclusion

Boating offers endless possibilities for fun, whether you’re looking for excitement, relaxation, or a little of both. From fishing and watersports to wildlife watching and picnicking, there’s something for everyone on the water. Plus, with boats ranging in size and price, there’s an option for every type of boater. So, grab your gear, hop on board, and enjoy these fun activities next time you hit the water!

Happy Boating!

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Read Pontoon vs. Bowrider: Which Boat is Right for You? until we meet in the next article. 

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