How to Keep Warm on Your Boat

Going out on the water is already going to be chilly, even on warm days, but during the winter, it can get downright frigid. That doesn’t mean you have to waste your time on shore for the next several months. Plenty of boaters still head out onto the water, even in freezing temperatures, either for work or for recreational purposes. There are some key ways you can stay warm on your boat, no matter how chilly it gets. We’ve listed some of these ways below to get you started. You can also stop by Mark’s Leisure Time Marine for some additional cold weather tips. You’ll find us in Conesus and Canandaigua, New York, proudly serving our neighbors in Rochester.

Layer Clothing

This is a classic tip that works for just about anywhere you might be cold. It serves a few purposes. Layering is better for insulation, and if you start to get too hot, it’s easy to remove a layer without immediately getting too cold. 

Proper layering starts with a base, wickering layer designed to keep moisture from sticking to your skin. Long johns are a great example of this kind of layer. Next, you’ll want a lighter layer, like light fleece or thin wool, followed by a heavier, more insulating layer. Finally, you’ll want to wear your winter jacket, preferably something waterproof, even if it’s not supposed to rain, in order to protect you from spray. Getting something windproof can also make for a warmer trip.

Cold Weather Accessories

Covering your torso should be priority number one. After all, as you start to get cold, your brain pulls your body heat inward to keep your organs nice and toasty. Then again, you still want to be able to use your hands and feet on your boat. That’s why you’ll want to wear warm socks, even layering them if you need to, and thick boots that keep your feet warm and dry while also making it easy to move about the boat. 

You’ll also want to cover your hands so your fingers remain dextrous. Mittens will keep your hands warmer, but might make working with smaller objects difficult. There are insulated gloves to make up for this, or you can opt for fingerless gloves. 

Finally, keep your head and ears warm with a nice wool cap. If you don’t have one of those, you can also go for a baseball cap with a fleece neck gaiter. 

Insulation

If your boat comes with a cabin, then you might want to consider adding layers of insulation to keep the interior warm. This can help cut down on any additional heat sources you use and can also reduce the amount of condensation. Plus, if it gets extremely cold, you’ll have a reliable place to escape to to warm up. 

Electric Heater

Speaking of additional heat sources, a portable heater can increase the cabin’s temperature a few degrees so escaping from the cold is particularly effective. Of course, you’ll need to be careful about what you pick. It’ll need to stay upright, even as the boat rocks back and forth. You’ll also want to think about the kind of power it consumes and what’s going to be easiest for you to accommodate. While you’re at it, pick up a carbon monoxide detector, which is not only fitting when you’re using some portable heaters, but also a good safety measure in general. 

Blankets

Something as simple as having some dry blankets tucked away in a secure location can help you warm up. This can be particularly helpful if you have guests on board who maybe weren’t prepared for the biting cold on the water.

Your days on the water don’t have to end just because the temperature outside starts to drop. With the right amount of preparation, you can still enjoy some fantastic boating activities and stay warm. Plus, there’s nothing like a cup of hot cocoa after a day outside in the cold. If you’re in Rochester and still looking for the perfect boat, stop by Mark’s Leisure Time Marine and let one of our experienced staff give you the complete tour.