Best Sailing Gifts

The new Magellan ToughCase for iPhone and iPod Touch is the perfect way to use your device safely and effectively while boating. Not only does the case provide waterproof protection, but it includes additional battery power and GPS reception (better than iPhone GPS, and supplies GPS missing in iPod Touch). Now you can use dozens of marine apps on your boat without risk of water damage or running out of power. Apps available from the Apple store include navigation, tide, weather, wind, and more.

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The slogan for Good Old Boat magazine is “The Sailing Magazine for the Rest of Us!” Unless you’re shopping for or have just bought a brand-new sailboat, this magazine is chock-full of articles covering almost everything you need to keep your sailboat running or make upgrades you can do yourself. Well written, with beautiful and useful photos, Good Old Boat reviews classic sailboats, discusses the best gear, and gives step-by-step procedures for repairs and maintenance. They also have a great selection of books and clothing items that make excellent gifts.

Here's a new palm-size 14-megapixel digital camera that is perfect for boaters. With a 5X optical zoom and a pages-long list of advanced features, this is not a point-and-shoot but a serious camera that happens to be tiny and—most important for sailors—waterproof (to 33 feet). Don’t worry about spray or rain, dust, or the shock of being dropped. Automatic focus and lots of mode settings let you grab shots on the fly, but other features like smile-recognition, close-ups, HDMI video, and onboard editing give you all the power you need. Plus you can use it snorkeling and take lengthy videos underwater! Long-lasting battery allows hundreds of shots between charges. GPS model offers location-tagging. And a choice of colors.

Here are four great, useful products to enhance any boater’s galley.

Combining good looks and the rugged construction of new sailcloth, SailorBags totes and duffels are a perfect way to carry gear and clothing aboard your boat. The triple-layer bottom resists wear and tear, and the water-resistant exterior and waterproof internal liner combine with a zippered top and pockets to protect your things against all the elements. What sailor doesn't like the appearance of sailcloth and stitching? Plus they're guaranteed for life. Available in various sizes and shapes for every need. New sailcloth items include accessories like wine bags, computer bags, and iPad sleeves - making perfect less expensive gifts!

Here's a really interesting and attractive sailor's bracelet for someone special in your (sailing or other) life. Made of heavy cordage and sturdy clasps in bronze or silver, and featuring the perfect simplicity of a reef knot, these bracelets are available in a wide range of colors and sizes. Great for both men and women. This sailor himself wears one and receives a lot of compliments - especially from those in the know about sailing knots!

One thing every sailor needs is a good stainless steel multi-tool for everything you do while sailing and working on the boat. This high-quality device from SOG has a wide range of tools and very sharp serrated and straight knife blades. Everything locks in place for safety and ease of use. The gearing gives the pliers and wire-cutter more power than a typical multi-tool. The spring-loaded blades opening with thumb and finger knobs and safety catches make this also the perfect knife for fast one-handed use in an emergency.

Here’s a great pocket-size gift for anyone who races a sailboat or is contemplating crewing in a race. At 15 pages with effective color diagrams, it covers the main rules of sail racing in a format for quick consultation, focusing on all the situations in which boats meet during a race. Use it before a race to review the rules with crew, but also keep it in your pocket during the race for a quick check when needed on the water. These are the official US SAILING rules in effect at least 2012.

Probably the best sandals designed for boaters, the Keen Newport model is everything you could want in a boat shoe but with the cool comfort of a sandal. They have a sturdy, nonmarking sole that grips the deck wet or dry. They’re waterproof and comfortable after hours of wear. Best, and unlike most sandals, their design protects your toes from being stubbed when you’re moving quickly about on the boat. Available in several colors and men’s and women’s sizes. You’ll like them so much you’ll wear them everywhere!

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