Spending time on a boat is a wonderful way to enjoy nature, but it’s crucial to prioritize sun safety. Sun exposure on the water can be particularly intense due to the reflection off the water’s surface. If you’re not adequately protected, this can lead to sunburn, skin damage, or more serious concerns like skin cancer. Below are the top five sunscreen and sun safety tips for boaters, including recommendations for the best sunscreens and other ways to stay sun-safe on the water.
1. Choose a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen with High SPF
The first and most critical step in sun protection for boaters is using sunscreen. For optimal protection, you’ll want a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means the sunscreen shields you from both UVA and UVB rays, which cause skin aging and burning, respectively. Water reflections can amplify the sun’s impact, making higher SPF essential for extended boating trips.
Recommended Sunscreen Options:
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 70 Sunscreen
- Price: $9.99 for an 88ml bottle
- Specs: Lightweight, non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Why it’s great for boaters: The dry-touch formula resists the slick feeling that can be uncomfortable in humid or wet conditions on the boat.
- Banana Boat Sport Performance SPF 50
- Price: $7.99 for an 8oz bottle
- Specs: Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, specifically designed for active use, so it’s perfect for long hours spent fishing or engaging in watersports.
- Why it’s great for boaters: The sweat- and water-resistant formula helps keep you protected while engaging in strenuous boating activities.
2. Reapply Sunscreen Every Two Hours
Even the most robust sunscreen wears off after a few hours, especially when you’re exposed to the elements or engaging in water activities. As a rule of thumb, reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you’ve been swimming or sweating. Some sunscreens have water-resistant claims (usually 40-80 minutes), but this doesn’t mean they’re waterproof, so reapplication is essential.
Sunscreen Stick for Easy Application:
- Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Stick SPF 55
- Price: $6.50 for a 1.5oz stick
- Specs: Portable, easy to apply, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Why it’s great for boaters: Sunscreen sticks are easy to carry and perfect for quick touch-ups on the face and sensitive areas without getting greasy hands.
3. Wear Protective Clothing
While sunscreen is essential, it isn’t the only line of defense. Wearing UV-protective clothing is a great way to minimize your exposure to harmful rays. Lightweight, breathable clothing made with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) can protect your skin while keeping you cool and comfortable on the boat. Look for long-sleeve shirts, hats with wide brims, and sunglasses that offer UV protection.
Recommended Protective Gear:
- Coolibar UPF 50+ Men’s Long Sleeve Shirt
- Price: $42.00
- Specs: UPF 50+ rating, moisture-wicking, lightweight, and quick-drying fabric.
- Why it’s great for boaters: Designed specifically for sun protection, the shirt keeps you cool and blocks 98% of UV rays.
- Columbia Bora Bora Booney Hat
- Price: $30.00
- Specs: UPF 50 sun protection, mesh venting for breathability, and an adjustable chin strap for windy conditions.
- Why it’s great for boaters: Provides full coverage for the face, neck, and ears, protecting these sensitive areas from direct sun exposure.
4. Seek Shade on the Boat When Possible
Finding or creating shaded areas on the boat is another essential sun safety tip. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can lead to sunburn, heat exhaustion, and dehydration. If your boat doesn’t have a built-in canopy or bimini top, consider using a portable umbrella or shade cover to reduce sun exposure, especially during the peak sunlight hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Shade Solutions:
- Sport-Brella Vented SPF 50+ Canopy Umbrella
- Price: $49.99
- Specs: 8-foot canopy, UPF 50+ sun protection, and side panels for extra coverage.
- Why it’s great for boaters: Portable and easy to set up, this umbrella can provide immediate shade on smaller boats or deck areas without built-in cover.
- Bimini Top for Boats
- Price: Starting at $150 for a basic 4-bow design
- Specs: UV-resistant polyester fabric, adjustable frame, and various sizes for different boat models.
- Why it’s great for boaters: Bimini tops are a great investment for frequent boaters as they offer continuous shade without needing to hold or set up anything manually.
5. Hydrate and Monitor for Signs of Sun Overexposure
Sun exposure can quickly dehydrate you, especially when you’re out on the water for hours at a time. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid heat-related illnesses. Be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, such as dizziness, fatigue, rapid heartbeat, or nausea. Cooling towels and personal fans can help lower body temperature and prevent overheating.
Hydration and Cooling Products:
- Hydro Flask 32 oz. Water Bottle
- Price: $39.95
- Specs: Double-wall vacuum insulation, BPA-free, and keeps liquids cold for up to 24 hours.
- Why it’s great for boaters: The large capacity and ability to maintain cold temperatures make it ideal for all-day outings on the water.
- Mission Cooling Towel
- Price: $14.99
- Specs: Cools instantly when wet, lightweight, and chemical-free.
- Why it’s great for boaters: Simply soak the towel in water, wring it out, and snap it to activate a cooling effect that lasts for hours.
Conclusion
By following these top five sunscreen and sun safety tips, you can enjoy your boating experience without the worry of harmful sun exposure. Remember, a combination of high-SPF sunscreen, protective clothing, shade, hydration, and reapplication of sunscreen will give you the best protection. Investing in quality sun protection products like those recommended will not only keep you safe but also ensure you have an enjoyable and carefree time on the water.
Happy Boating!
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