Dockside Style: What To Wear When Boarding A Boat

When it comes to boat attire, comfort and protection should be your top priorities. You'll want to wear clothes that protect you from the sun, wind, and water, while also giving you the freedom to move around without sweating. It's a good idea to bring a change of clothes in case you get wet, and to check the weather forecast before your trip so you can pack accordingly. Polarised sunglasses are a must-have to protect your eyes from the sun's glare off the water, and a hat with a brim will keep your skin protected. As for footwear, flat, soft-soled shoes are best to prevent slipping on a wet deck.

Comfort and protection

When preparing for a boat trip, comfort and protection should be your top priorities. Here are some tips to ensure you stay comfortable and protected while out on the water:

Clothing

Wear clothing that is comfortable and allows you to move around easily. Opt for light and breathable fabrics such as linen and nylon, which will protect you from the sun while keeping you cool. If you plan to swim, wear your swimsuit under your clothes for convenience. Additionally, bring a change of clothes in case you get wet. Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Bring a jacket or a billowy long kimono to protect you from the wind and cooler temperatures. If you're going out on a boat during the winter, add an extra layer of warmth with a statement coat.

Footwear

Wear comfortable and practical shoes. Boat shoes, duck boots, and flat sandals are ideal for boat trips as they are designed for wet surfaces and provide traction. Avoid high heels and flip-flops, as they can be unsafe on a moving boat. If you plan to swim, bring a pair of waterproof shoes or sandals.

Accessories

Protect yourself from the sun with accessories such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A hat with a 4-inch brim will keep your skin protected from the sun's rays. Polarized sunglasses will shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and reduce glare from the water. Don't forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours or as needed.

Other Considerations

Bring a lightweight cover-up if you plan to spend time in the sun. This will provide additional protection from the sun while allowing you to stay cool. If you're concerned about getting too cold, consider bringing a scarf or a light shawl that you can wrap around yourself.

Consider the weather

When planning your boat dock attire, it's important to consider the weather forecast. You want to be prepared for any changes in temperature or conditions, so checking the weather beforehand is essential. Here are some tips to help you dress appropriately for different weather scenarios:

For sunny days, protection from the sun is crucial. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as linen or nylon. Cover up with long sleeves and clothing that blocks UV rays. Don't forget to bring a hat with a brim to shield your face and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially if you're swimming or sweating.

If you're heading out on a chilly day, pack layers to keep warm. Bring a jacket or a billowy long kimono that can be easily added or removed as needed. Jeans and a jacket can provide extra warmth as the air cools down. For footwear, consider boat shoes or flat sandals instead of high heels for safety and comfort.

In case of windy conditions, be prepared for unexpected gusts. A lightweight cover-up or a scarf can provide some protection from the wind while still allowing you to move freely. It's a good idea to have a change of clothes in case your original outfit isn't sufficient.

When there's a chance of rain, opt for practical and waterproof clothing. A windbreaker or a light raincoat can help keep you dry. Choose shoes that can handle getting wet, like waterproof boots or boat shoes.

Remember, the key is to be comfortable and prepared for changing weather conditions. You can always remove layers if you get too warm, and it's better to have extra clothing or accessories to add if needed. Keep an eye on the forecast leading up to your boat dock outing, and don't be afraid to adjust your outfit choices accordingly.

Footwear

When it comes to footwear for a boat trip, safety and comfort are paramount. Here are some tips to help you choose the right shoes for your boating adventure:

• Flat sandals with soft soles are a good choice for boat trips, especially if you plan to be on the move. Avoid high heels as they can be unsafe on a moving boat and opt for flat shoes instead.
• Boat shoes or deck shoes are a great option for women. Loafers, in particular, can be both comfortable and stylish.
• Espadrilles sneakers, casual footwear like TOMS or Vans, and flat sandals are also suitable options for a casual boat trip.
• If you're attending a yacht dinner, you can dress up your look with embellished flat shoes. Avoid high heels as they can damage the boat's floor and be unsafe on a moving surface.
• For a quick lake trip, consider duck boots if you don't want wet feet. These waterproof boots will keep your feet dry and comfortable.
• Wedge sandals can be a good choice if you're looking for a little height. They will give you a great silhouette, especially if you're petite and want to elongate your legs.
• Men have a variety of options, including stylish swimwear that can double as dress shorts. These can be paired with a loose shirt and a light jacket.
• If swimming isn't on the agenda, men can opt for loose pants or shorts, a light shirt or polo, and a vest.
• Boat shoes are a good choice for men as well. Look for "non-marking" boat shoes to avoid leaving scuff marks on the boat's floor.
• Avoid flip-flops, as they can be slippery on a wet deck. Instead, choose boating shoes designed for comfort and traction.

Accessories

Hats

A hat is a must-have accessory for any boat trip. Not only do they elevate your style, but they also provide essential protection from the sun. Opt for a statement straw hat, which will make you feel vacation-ready and protect your face and head from the sun's harmful UV rays. If you're looking for something more simple, a woven hat will do the trick. Just remember not to bring an expensive hat, as you don't want to risk losing it in the wind.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are another essential accessory to protect your eyes from the sun's glare and UV rays, especially when they reflect off the water. Look for polarised sunglasses to reduce the glare and ensure you can see clearly. Go for bold, oversized frames to make a statement, or rimless sunglasses for a more subtle look.

Handbags

When it comes to handbags, practicality and style are key. You'll want something spacious enough to hold all your essentials, such as sunscreen, hair ties, and a lightweight long-sleeve shirt for sun protection. A waterproof handbag is ideal, especially if you plan on swimming. A tote bag is a great option, as it will fit all your essentials and more.

Jewellery

From earrings to necklaces and bangles, jewellery can add a touch of glamour to your boat dock attire. Opt for statement pieces, like big, bold earrings or starfish-shaped studs for a mermaid-like vibe. Stack on the bangles for extra impact. If you're wearing a simple black bikini, add some shine with a chain belt and bracelets.

Watches

If you're planning on taking a dip in the water, ensure any watches you wear are waterproof.

Shoes

Comfortable and practical shoes are a must for any boat trip. Avoid high heels, as they can be unsafe on a moving boat. Instead, opt for flat sandals with soft soles, boat shoes, or espadrilles. If you're planning on swimming, bring a pair of waterproof boots or duck boots to keep your feet dry.

Layering

The first layer, or base layer, is crucial for staying dry. This layer should be made of a hydrophobic, wicking fabric that pulls moisture away from the skin. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and polypropylene are ideal for this purpose. Avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture and reduces the effectiveness of the outer layers. Look for clothing with a wicking layer specifically designed to keep you dry, such as a technical top and bottoms, as well as socks made with hydrophobic yarns.

The second layer, or mid layer, acts as insulation. This layer should be made of a material that traps warm air while allowing moisture to pass through. Traditional fabrics like wool can be used, but modern synthetic fibres like fleece are lighter, dry faster, and provide better insulation. Fleece is also soft, lightweight, and has a high warmth-to-weight ratio. It doesn't itch or chafe, so it can be worn comfortably against the skin. Some fleece fabrics now come with coatings or laminates that make them windproof, adding to their warmth.

The third layer is the weather protection layer, designed to keep water and cold air out. This layer should be breathable to allow moisture from your body to escape, while also blocking solid water molecules and wind. Look for jackets made with modern technical fabrics that are waterproof, windproof, and breathable.

In addition to the three main layers, don't forget to protect your extremities. Choose insulating headgear, such as a fleece cap, to prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of hypothermia. For your feet, avoid cotton socks, as they retain moisture and can cause blisters. Instead, opt for modern technical socks that use hydrophobic yarns to keep your feet warm and dry. For your hands, choose gloves with a waterproof, breathable nylon exterior and a fleece lining for insulation.

By layering your clothing in this way, you can ensure you stay dry, warm, and comfortable during your time at the boat dock, no matter the weather conditions.

Frequently asked questions