Garmin Nautix
The Garmin Nautix definitely has the cool factor. It’s a hands-free, in-view display that puts important info in your line of sight. The small device clips on to most sunglasses and displays speed, heading, depth, wind direction, engine rpm and more from a compatible onboard device. $400
Grundens Gaff Short
The Gaff Short from Grundens is tailored from four-way stretch fabric and treated with a durable water-repellent finish. They provide UPF 50 sun protection and feature a handy slash- and abrasion-resistant tool pocket. $60
Bak Seal 8
Tablets have been pressed into heavy-duty use aboard many cruising boats. Problem is, they’re fragile and don’t like water. Enter the Seal 8 — a fully ruggedized marine tablet. It is shockproof and submersible to 1 meter, has built-in GPS, and the touchscreen can even be used wet.
$575 • www.bakusa.com
Toad&Co Pilot Light Short Sleeved Shirt
Super lightweight, fast-drying and breathable, the Pilot Light shirt can handle a day aboard or dinner ashore. UPF 30 will protect you from the sun and a hidden zipper pocket keeps cash secure. Our tester particularly like the light, airy feeling of the shirt, the generously cut shoulders (for freedom of movement), and that the fabric is sustainably produced.
$75 • www.toadandco.com
DryVIBES Waterproof Speaker
Bring the party from the cockpit to the dinghy to the beach with the new DryVIBES speaker from Dry Case. The rechargeable unit, about the size of a tennis ball, pairs easily to devices via Bluetooth. It is waterproof, has a suction cup mount, and even floats. $80
Shakespeare Webwhip
If you’re looking for an affordable way to stay connected while away from the dock, check out the WebWhip long-range Wi-Fi receiver. It can increase the coverage of local hotspots (say, your marina) for up to 7 miles. WebWhip is compatible with all computers and devices, draws less than 1 amp at 12 volts DC, and can be mounted on rails, masts or even flat vertical surfaces. $350
Columbia Women’s Vulc N Vent Lace Canvas II Shoe
These non-marking sneakers are light, breathable and even have a vented footbed to keep your feet from roasting. With casual styling and a fun range of colors, the Vulc N Vents don’t scream “I’m on a boat!” when you go ashore. We found these to run big, so we recommend ordering a size smaller than your usual shoe size. $55
Rollors
Bring the entertainment to the next beachside potluck! Rollors is a fun lawn (or beach) game that’s easy to learn and is something like bowling and horseshoes combined. The high-quality wooden pieces store in a small tote that could fit just about anywhere on board. $50
West Marine Youth Water Shoes
Protect tiny toes on the boat or beach with Youth Water Shoes from West Marine. Mesh fabric is breathable and drains water, while a Velcro tab makes getting (and keeping!) the shoes on quick and easy. Soles are non-marking.
$20 • www.westmarine.com
