The Gift Guide for the Dad that Rather Be on a Boat
Last Updated on May 29, 2025 by Boatsetter Team
He’s dreamed of this boat day for years. This Father’s Day, make it happen. Explore our curated gift guide for dads who’d rather be boating.
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1. Tee time on a boat
Fuse Dad’s love for boating and golfing into one, epic Father’s Day experience. Hit golf biodegradable balls off the back of a 55 ft Sea Ray Yacht while cruising around Boston’s Harbor Islands.
2. Go on guided fishing trip
Whether you’re looking to fish in a lake or go deep sea fishing, one way to make this Father’s Day special is by booking a fishing boat with a local angler that can show you all their honey holes, and maybe even a few new tricks.
3. BBQ on a boat
Bring the grill master on board for an on the water cookout. Make sure to do the slicing, dicing, mixing, and blending at home to get everything ready for an easy afternoon of grilling out on the boat. Don’t forget to bring Dad’s favorite barbecue sauce. And, of course, use the fridge on board to keep his beverage chilly. Just the way he likes it.
4. Dock ‘n’ dine at a waterfront restaurant
With hundreds of incredible waterfront eateries, including the best steakhouses and seafood joints, why not give Dad a dock ‘n’ dine experience? Naturally, restaurants get packed so call ahead make reservations. And, if possible, ask them to hold an outdoor table with a water view.
5. Book a water sports session
Some dads love riding ATVs, bungee jumping, and extreme races. One fun Father’s Day idea is to bring Dad out for a thrilling day of water sports. From paddle boarding to wake boarding to water foiling, find a boat with a licensed captain and focus on having fun with Dad.
6. Explore a national park by boat
With 429 National Parks between sea and shining sea, many of which hold scenic waterway trails, this year for Father’s Day why not explore a National Park by boat? Bring a camera for silly selfies and for pictures of diverse wildlife.
7. Cruise & hike
Next time you’re planning your hiking trip, take Dad through a loop that connects to water and enjoy natural and wildlife sightings fro a new perspective. If you and Dad are daring, try your hand at the helm on The Great Loop, a 6, 000-mile water trail that passes through 15 states and provinces, and includes over 100 locks.
8. Beach day
Pack the sunscreen and let Boatsetter handle the rest—around 70% of boats come stocked with trip essentials like coolers with ice. Cruise out, drop anchor, and kick back with Dad for the ultimate beach day.
Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent a boat, list your boat, or become a Boatsetter captain today.
