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Boat Camping is a great outdoor activity for relaxing and also having a good time with your loved ones. But there are some factors you should consider before starting a boat camping trip to make your trip more enjoyable.
This article will guide you in planning your boat camping trip even if you don’t know anything about it.
So when it comes to camping on a boat the main thing you need is a boat. There are many camping boats out there and here are some of the best according to my experience.
What types of boats are best for boat camping?
Whittley CR2380
Whittely CR2380 is a perfect boat for adventures. You will feel like you are in a modern Jaguar car when you are riding this boat. There is room for 7 people and there are options such as an electric anchor winch, DVD player, Hot water service, electric toilet, windscreen wiper, and more.
Also, this boat has a V6 engine with 225 max HP. So if you are looking for a sporty adventure boat camping experience, this is the perfect boat.
SeaCamper
Seacamper is a classic camper boat with modern features that is 24 feet long. The special features of this boat are bench seating which can double as a sleeping area for a person, kitchen area with stainless steel sink, oven, and mini fridge.
Boat a Home Escape II
If we talk about the size of this boat, this boat’s length is 26 feet and the width is 8 feet. The living area of this boat can seat up to six people and the dinette area can be seated up to 3 people. The galley includes a triple burner cooktop and a stove with a sink and a 118-liter fridge. Like on the sea camper, this boat also includes a bench that can convert to a double bed for 4 people.
When it comes to power, this boat has two 150-watt solar panels. So if you are taking a long camping trip with your family this boat will let you feel like you are staying at home.
Caraboat 7500
This smart-looking camper boat’s length is almost 25 feet long. The room of this boat is enough for 7 people and the other facilities are almost the same compared to boat home escape II.
Boatvan
If you are looking for a small-size budget camping boat, this will be a perfect match for you. The length of this boat is 15 feet and the width is 7 feet. Also, It is easier to tow small vehicles. The room is enough for up to 4 people and there is a single-burner cooktop with a sink in the living area. There are bench seating and a removable table that can convert into a sleeping area.
A solar panel can be added to the roof as an optional item if you want.
MiniBig
MiniBig is an eye-catching small camping boat with 12.5 feet in length and 5 feet in width. The room is enough for up to 3 people and you will feel that you have a lot of room inside of this even if it looks small. There is a small sink, mini fridge, and water tank. The dinette area is enough for 3 people to sleep in after converting the bench sitting area.
Location
When it comes to boat camping this is the most important factor you should focus on when you are planning it. So how can you choose a great location? There are several factors you should consider.
1. A location offers more privacy
Finding a less crowded area is great to stay relaxed and make your trip more peaceful and enjoyable. So try to look for remote locations but always remember safety is first because there are chances to have danger in less crowded areas. So do better research online.
2. Locations with scenic views
To have a great experience on your trip try to find locations that have great scenic views such as mountains, waterfalls etc. But this factor is depending on your interest. So it’s up to you.
3. Locations that have more opportunities
There are many things you can do when you are going on a boat camping trip such as fishing, kayaking, hiking, etc. If your boat has enough room to store items for more activities then go for it. You don’t have to do a lot in a single trip, try to find an activity that you like. For me, it’s kayaking and fishing at night because it is so much fun.
4. Weather conditions
Make sure to find a location that has a good climate. So make sure to plan your trip in a climate that you like. As for me, I don’t like much warmer or heavily rainy weather when I’m traveling.
What types of apps are best?
If you are planning to take any smartphones with you (I suggest you take a smartphone with you) make sure to have these 3 apps on your phone because they might help you a lot in your journey.
Google Earth – I think you already have this app on your mobile. Google Earth will help you to locate where you are and especially to locate camper grounds.
Navionics – Navionics app is developed for boating. This app will help you for finding sheltered reefs and islands when off the coast. Also, you can use this app offline after downloading it. Also, you can use it with your laptop.
Windy app – Windy app will help you to know about the weather and it will provide you with very accurate data.
Have a plan B
You may already have planned your trip perfectly but make sure to have a plan B just in case. Having a plan B means if your traveling passage gets too uncomfortable make sure to have an alternative destination that you can enter easily. Also, make sure to locate where is the nearest shelter.
Packing your items – Boat Camping Guide
There are several things you should consider when you are packing and storing your items on your boat. It is very important because there is limited space.
1. Make an item list
Grab a piece of paper and write down all of the essential items that come to your head. (writing every item doesn’t mean that you are going to carry them all, this will help you to manage your items and free up more space on your boat).
So you should include items such as food, personal items, bedding, cooking utensils, etc. I also made a list of food and basic items that you are going to need. So you can get some ideas from it as well.
Basic food checklist
Basic spices such as salt pepper, garlic powder, chili flakes, olive oil, butter, milk, honey, bread, ham, tomatoes, onions, lettuce, coffee, noodles, fruit, nuts, chips, sandwiches, eggs, etc.
You don’t need to carry every food item on this list, this is just a list that I made to help you for choosing food items.
Basic item list
Food, cooking utensils, ice, plastic bags, water, Band-Aids, camping chairs and table, Sun protection, GPS, Flares, Duct tape, Anchor, Water filter, Independent light sources(head torches), handheld VHF, toilet paper, Insect repellent, spare batteries, dry towels, etc.
Related : How to Choose a Tent for Boat Camping Trip
Double Puffy Camping Blanket
2. Pack your items in waterproof containers
This is an important factor you should consider because you are going on your trip on the water. So it is a must to pack your items in waterproof containers Especially your food and bedding items.
You can use dry bags and plastic containers for waterproofing your items.
IRIS USA 19 Quart WEATHERPRO Plastic Storage Box
Waterproof Dry Bag for Kayaking, Beach, Rafting, Boating, Hiking, Camping and Fishing
3. Place items on the boat according to the weight
When you are packing your items on the boat make sure to place heavy items low and towards the center to keep the boat balanced.
Another tip is, to use bedding that is light and doesn’t take up too much space when packing.
4. Organize items when packing
Organizing your items when packing will help you to find any item that you need soon. When you are packing food items make sure to use non-perishable food items and also avoid using glass containers for safety.
5. Pack a first-aid kit
It is very important to pack a first aid kit with some Band-Aids and painkillers just in case.
Small Waterproof First Aid Kit for Workplace Home Sports Survival Driving Hiking
Power needs
If you are planning a trip for more than a day make sure to have an extra battery. Also, have some independent light sources such as head torches.
Things you can do on a boat camping adventure
There are plenty of things you can do to have fun in your boat camping adventure here are some great ideas for you to try.
Fishing
If you have any fishing gear make sure to bring them with you because fishing at night is very relaxing and you can enjoy it a lot. Also, you can grill them for dinner. Make sure to bring a sonar for locating fish to make your fishing experience more efficient.
Swimming
When it comes to swimming it is not just only it. If you aren’t traveling alone, you can do some water sports to have some fun on the water.
Canoeing
Another thing you can do is canoeing. This is also one of my favorites because it will help you to explore hidden areas that you can’t travel with your boat.
Cooking
Cooking and making some food while traveling is very relaxing. But try not to make complex recipes if you don’t have any experience. Just make some simple and tasty recipes because you are not in a food competition. I recommend you take a grill with you.
Photography
You will find a lot of beautiful locations and things while on your journey. So if you have a good camera, make sure to bring it with you to take some marvelous photoshoots. Also, you can shoot your activities to keep them as memories.
Exploring
There will be small islands caves and more to explore. If you have a handheld VHF it would be better if you are planning to explore islands.
FAQ
What type of tent should I use on my boat camping trip?
There are different kinds of tents out there to use according to your need. If you are looking for a tent to use on your boat you can use tents like AUTOHAUX 600D Canvas, or Pontoon Easy-Up Enclosure.
Also If you are going to use tents outside of the boat you can use tents such as Nano cure tents, and Flying tents.
Conclusion
Boat camping is a great outdoor activity to have a lot of new experiences by doing things such as fishing, exploring, photographing, stargazing, etc. But before starting to go on a trip on your boat, there are several factors you should consider such as packing your items and planning the trip to make your camping adventure more enjoyable.