Essential Items For Your Boat's Back Seat Board

Boat seats are important for the comfort and safety of passengers, especially on long cruises or in rough seas. There are various options for boat seats, including fixed seats, portable deck chairs, and bean bags. When choosing a boat seat, it is important to consider factors such as comfort, stability, portability, and compatibility with the boat's existing upholstery. In addition, features like storage compartments, cup holders, and armrests can enhance the functionality and comfort of the seats. It is also crucial to ensure that the seats meet safety standards and are properly installed to avoid accidents.

Portable deck chairs

When it comes to portable deck chairs for boats, there are a variety of options to choose from. These chairs are designed to provide extra seating for you and your guests, and can be easily folded and stored away when not in use. Here are some things to consider when choosing portable deck chairs:

Materials

Comfort

If comfort is a priority, look for chairs with features like high-compression foam padding and oversized armrests. The Wise Deluxe Offshore Folding Deck Chair, for example, is designed for all-day comfort with its oversized armrests and high-compression foam padding. Other features to look for include soft padded backrests, cushioned seats, and adjustable backrests.

Storage and Portability

Since you're looking for portable chairs, it's important to consider how easy they are to store and transport. Look for chairs that fold compactly and have features like lock pins and non-slip foot pads for added stability and ease of storage. The Goplus Folding Deck Chair, for example, has a soft padded backrest, armrests, and non-slip protectors for easy storage.

Price

Brand

When choosing a portable deck chair, consider purchasing from reputable brands such as Wise, Seachoice, Goplus, Marine City, and Forma Marine. These brands offer a range of options in terms of style, comfort, and price, and often have a wide selection of products to choose from.

In summary, when choosing portable deck chairs for your boat, consider factors such as materials, comfort, storage, portability, price, and brand. By taking these factors into account, you can find deck chairs that provide both functionality and comfort for you and your guests.

Cooler cushions

When choosing a cooler cushion, consider the material. You'll want something durable and comfortable. Look for marine-grade vinyl that is UV-resistant and water-resistant to withstand the outdoor elements, spills, and splashes. Some cushions feature dense foam support for added comfort.

Additionally, some cooler cushions come with extra features like camouflage covers, which can be ideal for fishing or hunting trips.

Keep in mind that cooler seats may not provide back support, so you may need to add a coaming pad or lean the cushion against the transom or gunwale. To prevent the cooler from sliding, consider placing it on a rubber non-slip mat or using screw-down chocks at the corners.

Beanbag chairs

Bean bag chairs are a great option for boat seats, especially for long offshore runs. They are super comfortable, even when navigating harsh seas over a long duration. They sit low on the deck, so there is no danger of tipping. In fact, in rough seas, bean bag chairs can be more comfortable than an adjustable helm seat or leaning post. They are also stable and safe, with no risk of tipping over.

Marine-grade bean bag chairs are made from materials that are resistant to water, UV rays, and mildew. They are designed to absorb the impact of rough seas, providing support to your head and neck. They are also very affordable, with prices starting at around $50 for a non-marine-grade bean bag chair, and $150 for a marine-grade one.

Bean bag chairs are bulky and do not fold, so they can be difficult to store. A pair of bean bag chairs can take up a lot of space, so it's important to consider the size of your boat before purchasing. One option for storage is to stow them atop the T-top when not in use.

When choosing a marine bean bag chair, look for one that is designed for marine use and made from high-quality, durable materials. Consider the size and shape that will best fit your boat, and whether you want to match it to your boat's colour scheme. Some companies offer custom colours and logo personalisation. It is also important to ensure that the bean bag chair has adequate back support to prevent back pain.

Overall, bean bag chairs are a comfortable, stable, and affordable option for boat seating, perfect for long trips and rough seas.

Portable centre console seats

When it comes to portable centre console seats, there are a few options to consider.

Firstly, you can opt for a portable deck chair specifically designed for boats. These chairs offer comfortable and sturdy seating, with features such as varnished-wood armrests, non-skid leg tips, and mildew-resistant fabric. They can be folded and stored away when not in use, making them a convenient choice for boats where space is limited.

Another option is to utilise cooler cushions. If your boat already carries large coolers, adding snap-on cushions provides a simple and cost-effective way to create additional seating. These cushions are designed to withstand marine conditions and can be purchased from most major cooler brands.

Beanbag chairs are another popular choice for extra seating on boats. They are simple, comfortable, and stable, even in rough seas. Marine-grade beanbag chairs are designed to last longer and come in various colours to match your boat's upholstery. They can be easily stowed away when not in use, making them a versatile option.

For a more structured option, consider the West Marine High-Back Go-Anywhere Seat 2. This seat offers a powder-coated, five-position, ratcheting internal steel frame for added support. It also includes armrests, a drink holder, and various pockets for storage. When not in use, it conveniently folds up into a backpack for easy transport and storage.

Lastly, the Garelick Utility Seat is a single removable seat that can be mounted on the inwales or transom bulkhead. It features a Hypalon-cushioned fold-out leg for support and a padded, marine-grade vinyl seat. The anodized-aluminum frame helps prevent corrosion, and you also have the option to add a rod gimbal. This seat folds away for convenient storage when not in use.

These options provide a range of portable centre console seating solutions to enhance your boating experience, offering comfort, functionality, and flexibility.

Leaning post conversion

A leaning post is a great addition to a boat, providing a comfortable and stable seating option, particularly for anglers who need to shoot off over choppy waters.

The conversion from captain's chairs to a leaning post is a relatively easy process, as outlined by a user on the Shamrock Boat Owners' Club forum. The process involves removing the captain's chairs from their pedestals and sliding the mounting tubes of the leaning post over the existing pedestals. This method means no new holes need to be drilled, and the post can be easily removed if needed. The whole process should take around 30 minutes.

There are a variety of leaning posts available to purchase, with prices ranging from $70 to over $2000. When choosing a leaning post, it is important to consider the size and ensure it will fit your boat. Some leaning posts also come with additional features such as rod holders, footrests, and storage compartments. It is also worth noting that some products do not include deck mounting brackets or seat backs, so be sure to check what is included before purchasing.

For those who want to avoid drilling holes in their boat, a cooler seat is another option for adding seating. These can be placed on top of an ice chest with a snap-on cushion, providing a portable and affordable seating solution. However, they do not offer much back support and can slide around on the deck.

Frequently asked questions