15 brilliant Christmas gifts for sailors

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If you're trying to buy gifts for sailors… well, we know how tricky that can be.

Sailors tend to be quite particular about their kit, and the sailing world comes with specifications that make absolutely no sense if you've never set foot on a boat. Whether you're shopping for a seasoned skipper or someone who just enjoys weekend pottering about, the sheer choice can be rather overwhelming.

Here's the thing, though,  we've been sailing for years, and everything we've included in this list is something we'd genuinely be delighted to receive ourselves. As sailors, we know what actually gets used and what ends up gathering dust in a locker somewhere.

We've chatted with plenty of skippers and crews to put together this guide, focusing on practical gear that makes life aboard more comfortable – from marine binoculars that double up as navigation aids to clever accessories that solve those everyday challenges you face on the water. These aren't random suggestions – they're carefully chosen presents that will see regular use rather than being politely tucked away and forgotten.

So if you're stuck for ideas this Christmas, you're in the right place. We've got 15 excellent options that blend practicality with thoughtfulness – exactly what every sailor appreciates most.

Victorinox Skipper Swiss Army Knife

Image source: victorinox.com

There's something rather satisfying about having the right tool for the job when you're out on the water.

The Victorinox Skipper Swiss Army Knife delivers exactly that – a specialised tool that's been designed with sailors in mind rather than just adapted from something else. This isn't your ordinary Swiss Army knife that happens to work on boats; it's built specifically for the challenges you'll face aboard.

What makes the Skipper different

The Skipper packs 18 different tools into one compact unit, but it's the sailing-specific features that set it apart:

• Shackle opener with marlin spike (absolutely essential for stubborn knots)
• Large blade with serrated edge (lockable on the Pro version)
• Combination pliers with a wire cutter and a crimper
• Phillips screwdriver and flathead options (3mm and 7mm)
• Bottle and can openers
• Reamer/punch tool
• Corkscrew
• Tweezers and a toothpick

At 111mm long and weighing just 183g, it strikes the right balance between functionality and portability. The blue polyamide handle stands up to salt spray and constant use – crucial when you're dealing with harsh marine conditions.

Why sailors swear by the Skipper

Victorinox has been making Swiss Army knives since 1884, so they know a thing or two about quality tools. But what makes this particular knife brilliant as a  is how well it addresses the specific problems you encounter on boats.

That marlin spike alone is worth its weight in gold – perfect for working with half to three-quarter inch ropes when they've seized up. The shackle key fits most standard boat shackles, and those pliers handle everything from safety pin adjustments to removing stubborn staples.

The lifetime warranty shows just how confident Victorinox are in their craftsmanship – always reassuring when you're relying on a tool in challenging conditions.

What you'll pay

The standard Skipper typically costs around £52.90, which represents excellent value when you consider how many separate tools you'd otherwise need to carry. The Pro version runs about £84.18 and includes a lockable marlin spike plus a bright orange lanyard – handy if you're prone to dropping things overboard in rough weather.

Where the Skipper shines

This knife particularly excels during:

• Day sailing on smaller boats (up to about 40-50 feet)
• Lake sailing, where you might need various tools quickly
• Emergency repairs when you need multiple functions fast
• Regular maintenance tasks around the boat

For coastal cruising and inland sailing, the standard version offers plenty of versatility without unnecessary weight. The Pro model makes more sense for serious offshore work, where that lockable spike becomes essential for safety.

Most experienced sailors consider tools like this part of their essential kit, whether they're sailing their own boat or helping out on someone else's.

Fenix HM65R Shadowmaster Headtorch

Image source: tackleuk.co.uk

When you're sailing in the dark, proper lighting isn't just helpful – it's essential.

The Fenix HM65R Shadowmaster headtorch has been designed specifically with marine environments in mind, offering the sort of reliable illumination that can make all the difference during night sailing.

What makes the Shadowmaster special

The real beauty of this headtorch lies in its dual-light system. You get a powerful white spotlight pushing out up to 1200 lumens with a 168m beam distance, plus a versatile red floodlight producing up to 150 lumens with 30m range. Both lights operate independently with their own switches, and there's a handy memory function that remembers your last brightness setting.

Built to handle whatever the weather throws at it, the Shadowmaster features:

• Magnesium alloy construction keeping weight down to just 97g (excluding battery)
• IP68 waterproof rating – it'll survive being submerged to 2m for 30 minutes
• Tough enough to withstand 2m drops and completely dustproof
• USB-C charging that gets you back to full power in 3 hours
• Comes with a substantial 3400mAh 18650 rechargeable battery

The headband's been thoughtfully designed too, with silicon strips to channel sweat and rain away, plus a hollow weave structure that keeps things breathable during long watches.

Why sailors love this headtorch

It's fair to say that the red light functionality is what really sets this apart for marine use. That red light preserves your night vision whilst still allowing you to navigate safely in darkness. The lowest 5-lumen red setting runs for an impressive 120 hours – perfect for those long night watches when you need to check instruments or read charts without ruining your night vision.

The waterproof construction means it'll keep working even in the worst conditions, and the battery indicator takes the guesswork out of power management with four LEDs showing exactly how much charge you've got left.

What you'll pay

The Fenix HM65R Shadowmaster typically costs around £109.95 – excellent value when you consider the build quality and performance you're getting.

When this headtorch really shines

The Shadowmaster proves its worth during:

• Night watches and navigation tasks
• Emergency repairs below deck
• Dinghy operations after sunset
• Those inevitable anchor checks in the dark

Battery life is genuinely impressive – eco mode delivers 50 lumens for up to 40 hours, whilst even the full turbo white light setting gives you 2 solid hours before stepping down. The fact that you can easily swap batteries means you'll never be caught short during extended voyages.

Standard Horizon HX890E VHF Radio

Image source: standardhorizon.co.uk

Let's talk about something that could save your life – a proper VHF radio

Once you're beyond mobile phone coverage, a reliable handheld VHF becomes your lifeline to the outside world. The Standard Horizon HX890E isn't just another radio – it's the sort of kit that makes the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious emergency.

What makes the HX890E special

This little radio packs quite a punch for its size. The built-in 66-channel GPS means it knows exactly where you are, and with Class H DSC capabilities, it can transmit your precise position when things go wrong.

The IPX8 waterproof rating means it'll survive being dropped overboard – in fact, it floats, which is rather handy. Even better, there's an automatic emergency strobe light that works even when the radio's switched off. We've seen too many situations where that sort of backup could make all the difference.

What we particularly like is the 43mm x 43mm dot matrix display with proper day/night modes – you can actually read it when you need to. The 27-hour standby time means you're not constantly worried about battery life, and it'll store up to 250 waypoints if you're the organised type.

There's even a built-in FM radio for those quieter moments. The 6W transmit power (you can dial it down to 2W or 1W) comes with noise-cancelling technology that keeps communications clear even when conditions get challenging.

Why sailors love this radio

The dedicated distress button transmits your exact location instantly – no fumbling about trying to remember coordinates when you're under pressure. The water-activated strobe keeps flashing even if the radio's off, which could be crucial for man overboard situations.

For those sailing with friends, the Group Monitor function tracks up to 9 other vessels and shows where they are relative to you – brilliant for keeping the flotilla together. The menu system is actually intuitive, so you don't need to carry the manual everywhere.

What you'll pay

Expect to pay around £158.82 for the HX890E,  not cheap, but this is one area where you really don't want to compromise on quality.

When you'll appreciate having one

This radio really comes into its own during extended cruising, where that 27-hour standby time keeps you connected. Night sailing becomes less nerve-wracking with the backlit display and emergency lighting. If you're sailing in company, the position tracking feature is invaluable.

But honestly? It's in emergency situations where you'll be most grateful for the dedicated distress button and DSC capabilities. The fact it takes both rechargeable batteries and standard AAAs means it should definitely be in your grab bag.

Garmin InReach Messenger

Image source: garmin.com

Mobile coverage stops well before most interesting sailing destinations do. The Garmin InReach Messenger solves this problem with reliable satellite connectivity wherever your adventures take you.

What the Garmin InReach offers

This compact satellite communicator measures just 7.8 x 6.4 x 2.3 cm and weighs only 115g, yet it connects you to anywhere in the world:

• Global coverage through the Iridium satellite network for 100% worldwide connectivity
• Two-way text messaging with any mobile phone or email address
• Dedicated SOS button linked to GEOS 24/7 monitoring centre
• IPX7 water resistance (survives 1m submersion for 30 minutes)
• Battery life up to 28 days when tracking every 10 minutes
• Built-in GPS for location sharing and basic Trackback navigation
• Automatically switches between cellular/WiFi and satellite connections
• Reverse charging capability to power your phone in emergencies

Rather than wrestling with clunky satellite phone buttons, the InReach pairs with your smartphone through the Garmin Messenger app, so you can type messages normally.

Why sailors love the InReach

What makes this such a thoughtful gift is the peace of mind it provides – not just for the sailor, but for everyone back home. Family and friends can receive regular position updates and stay in touch even when you're hundreds of miles offshore.

The unlimited preset messaging feature is particularly clever – you can send quick status updates like "Setting off" or "Safely at anchor" without eating into your message allowance.

Garmin InReach costs

The device typically costs around £158, though you'll find price variations between retailers.

For the subscription, you've got several options:

• Essential plan: £11.90/month with 50 messages included
• Standard plan: £23.82/month with 150 messages and unlimited tracking
• Premium plan: £39.70/month with unlimited messages
• Enabled plan: £6.35/month (pay-per-use option)

There's a one-time activation fee of £31.76, but here's the good bit – you can suspend your subscription for just £4.99 during months when you're not sailing.

When the InReach really shines

This device particularly excels for:

• Offshore passages beyond VHF or mobile coverage
• Island-hopping adventures with patchy connectivity
• Solo sailing when regular check-ins matter most
• Remote cruising where weather forecasts are otherwise impossible to get

You'll still need your VHF for ship-to-ship communication and emergencies, but the InReach provides that vital link to shore when you're sailing well beyond coastal waters – making it one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give a sailor who ventures further afield.

Sealskinz Waterproof Beanie

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Cold, wet heads make for miserable sailing – there's really no getting around it. The Sealskinz Waterproof Beanie tackles this age-old problem with some clever waterproof technology that's been designed specifically for the sort of conditions we face on the water.

What makes Sealskinz Beanies work

The secret lies in their three-layer construction, which sounds a bit technical but actually makes perfect sense:

• Outer layer: 100% acrylic knit that wicks moisture away
• Middle layer: Their proprietary Aquasealz™ waterproof membrane
• Inner layer: Soft microfleece lining (100% polyester) for warmth and comfort

The rubbed roll cuff design sits snugly without being too tight. You can choose from black, grey, navy, or yellow, and they come in sizes from S/M right up to XXL.

Why sailors actually rate these beanies

What sets this beanie apart is that it's genuinely waterproof yet still breathable. We've worn these in 20-knot winds and they stay put without slipping around.

The microfleece lining does a brilliant job of keeping your head warm, whilst that waterproof outer layer stops both rain and spray getting through. Many models also feature an eco-friendly Teflon coating that makes water simply bead up and roll straight off.

What you'll pay

The pricing varies depending on which model catches your eye:

• Standard waterproof beanie: £25
• Cley Waterproof Cold Weather Beanie: £35
• Bittering Textured Roll Cuff Beanie: £40

When you'll be glad you've got one

These beanies really come into their own during:

• Winter sailing when it's cold and wet
• Night watches when temperatures drop
• Rough weather sailing when you need proper protection
• Pretty much any outdoor activity, sailing or otherwise

The quick-drying outer layer is particularly handy between sailing sessions.

Red 40lt Waterproof Kit Bag

Image source: red-equipment.co.uk

Storage aboard boats is always a challenge – space is tight, and everything needs to stay dry. The Red 40lt Waterproof Kit Bag tackles both these problems head-on with clever design that's built specifically for life on the water.

What makes the Red Kit Bag special

This bag brings together serious functionality with proper construction that can handle marine conditions:

• Fully waterproof main compartment with welded seams and watertight zip
• Built from tough recycled Armour Tech fabric
• Detachable multiway straps so you can carry it as a backpack, duffel, or shoulder bag
• External wet/dry padded pocket – perfect for separating damp items
• Comes with a wipe-clean padded changing mat
• Reflective logo for visibility when light's poor

At 66cm long, 30cm wide and 26.5cm high, you get a generous 40-litre capacity without taking up too much space.

Why sailors love this bag

This isn't just about storage – it's about understanding how sailors actually use their kit. The IPX7 diving specification means it'll keep everything bone dry whether you're dealing with spray, heavy rain, or even if it goes overboard. That changing mat is brilliant too – makes getting in and out of wet gear so much easier, especially after a swim or when the weather's turned nasty.

Red Kit Bag pricing

You'll typically find this bag for £89.95, which we think represents cracking value given how well it's made and how much use you'll get out of it.

When the Red Kit Bag really shines

This bag excels for:

• Day trips when you're carrying clothing, food and all your bits and pieces
• Weekend adventures where you need reliable luggage
• Multi-sport sailing trips requiring dry storage
• Beach landings where keeping your kit dry is absolutely crucial

The bag's design really shows they understand what sailors need – it's practical, robust, and genuinely useful rather than just another bit of kit.

Spinlock Essentials Chest Pack

Image source: spinlock.co.uk

Organisation aboard...

You know how it is when you're sailing – you need your knife, your phone, maybe a snack, and they're never quite where you can reach them when things get busy. The Spinlock Chest Pack sorts out that problem rather neatly.

What you get with the Spinlock Chest Pack

This little pack might be the smallest in Spinlock's Essentials range, but it's surprisingly clever:

• Compact size at 160mm height × 160mm width × 60mm tapered depth
• Weighs just 83g so you'll barely notice it
• Self-draining design that shrugs off spray and rain
• Two-way zip that opens easily even with cold fingers
• Internal lanyard attachment plus key clip
• Toggle fitting for all Spinlock Deckvests from 2014 onwards
• Belt mounting option with secure hook and loop attachment

Why sailors love this chest pack

The clever bit is how it tucks under your arm, keeping essentials within easy reach without getting in your way. Whether it's your sailing knife, PLB, waterproof notepad, or just your phone and a cereal bar, everything stays accessible without restricting your movement. The self-draining design means you don't have to worry about water getting in and staying there.

Spinlock Chest Pack pricing

You'll find it for around £25.44 including VAT, though some retailers knock it down to about £19.95 during sale periods. For a piece of kit that's built for marine use and actually solves a real problem, that's pretty good value.

When the Spinlock pack really shines

This pack comes into its own during solo sailing when you can't afford to go rummaging around for essential kit. It's equally handy for coastal cruising where you're constantly reaching for gear, or any time you need navigation tools or communication devices right at hand.

If you've got a Spinlock Deckvest , the toggle attachment sits perfectly in that triangular space when you're wearing it – completely out of the way until you need it.

Gill Deckhand Sailing Gloves

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Your hands take quite a beating when you're sailing – rope burns, constant gripping, hours of exposure to wind and spray. The Gill Deckhand Sailing Gloves  are designed specifically to handle these challenges whilst still giving you the dexterity you need aboard.

What makes Gill Deckhand Gloves work

These gloves get the engineering right where it matters most. The double-layer Amara reinforcement on the palm gives you excellent grip without soaking up water, whilst the 4-way stretch fabric across the back offers UV 50+ protection and sheds water effectively.

The attention to detail really shows:

• No-seam fingertips for better comfort, durability and dexterity
• Offset finger seams that eliminate pressure points
• Wraparound palm protection removes uncomfortable side seams
• Pre-shaped construction that follows your natural hand shape

The reduced cuff length keeps things streamlined, and there's rear volume adjustment so you get freedom of movement without bulk.

Why sailors rate these gloves

What sailors tell us they appreciate most is how these gloves fit properly – they're shaped for hands that are actually gripping things. You get the protection you need without losing the feel for what you're doing. They're light enough that your hands don't get tired, even during long sessions.

Gill Deckhand Gloves pricing

The long finger versions are typically around £28, with short finger options at about £24.95.

When you'll use them most

These gloves really come into their own during:

• Dinghy sailing, where you're handling lines constantly
• Yacht sailing when you need protection from rope burns
• Windsurfing and paddle sports where you want grip without bulk
• Spinnaker work where you need both protection and feel

The pre-curved design makes them particularly good for extended helming – they won't restrict your movement or cause discomfort even after hours at the wheel.

Garmin Quatix 7 Smartwatch

Image source: garmin.com

Technology aboard boats has come a long way, and the Garmin Quatix 7 represents one of the most sophisticated pieces of marine electronics you can wear on your wrist. This isn't just another smartwatch with sailing apps tacked on – it's been designed from the ground up for serious sailors who need advanced navigation tools readily available.

What the Quatix 7 offers

The specifications alone are quite impressive for a marine-focused timepiece:

• Water resistant to 10 ATM (100 metres)
• Battery life of up to 18 days in smartwatch mode
• Bright display with options including 1.3" AMOLED screen
• Connectivity via Bluetooth, ANT+ and Wi-Fi
• Built-in GPS with multi-GNSS support

What really sets this apart is its direct integration with compatible Garmin chartplotters. You can control your autopilot, navigate charts, and even manage your entertainment system straight from your wrist

Why sailors love the Quatix 7

The real appeal lies in those marine-specific capabilities that genuinely make sailing easier. You can monitor tides, receive anchor drag alerts, and mark waypoints from anywhere on deck. The SailAssist feature is particularly clever – providing tack assistance with header and lift indicators that help you get the most out of every wind shift.

Quatix 7 pricing options

Three models are available to suit different budgets:

• Standard Edition: Approximately £400
• Sapphire Edition: Around £550 (featuring AMOLED display)
• Solar Edition: About £900 (with extended battery life)

When the Quatix 7 really shines

This watch excels across various sailing scenarios, from weekend coastal cruising to competitive regattas. Its ability to display water depth, engine RPM, and wind data directly on your wrist proves invaluable when you're single-handing or managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

For sailors who appreciate having crucial boat data always within glance, the Quatix 7 represents a significant step up from basic fitness trackers or general-purpose smartwatches.

EcoFlow River 2 Max Power Station

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Power supply aboard boats can be a proper headache, particularly when you're anchored up for a few days or exploring areas without shore power. The EcoFlow River 2 Max Power Station tackles this challenge head-on, delivering reliable electricity wherever your sailing takes you.

EcoFlow River 2 Max features

The River 2 Max packs a substantial 512Wh capacity using cutting-edge LiFePO4 (LFP) battery technology. Its 500W pure sine wave output handles most essential devices, whilst the clever X-Boost function temporarily bumps power to 1000W for more demanding appliances.

This compact unit measures just 27 x 26 x 19.6cm and weighs only 6.1kg – perfectly sized for boat storage. What's really impressive is its 60-minute full recharge time, which is five times faster than industry standards.

You've got four different charging options:

• Standard AC mains (660W max input)
• Solar panels (220W max)
• Car charging (12/24V)
• USB-C (100W)

The EcoFlow app connects via WiFi or Bluetooth, letting you monitor and control your power station remotely.

Why EcoFlow is excellent for sailors

This power station delivers genuine independence on the water. Its LFP battery chemistry provides over 3,000 charging cycles – that's nearly 10 years of daily use. The unit withstands marine environments with IPX7 waterproofing.

Most importantly, its solar compatibility allows sailors to generate up to 1.5kWh daily using portable panels, creating a truly self-sufficient power solution even during extended voyages.

EcoFlow River 2 Max pricing

Currently available from £299, though some retailers list it at £339. Given its marine-grade construction, long lifespan, and versatile functionality, this represents outstanding value compared to less capable alternatives.

Best use cases for EcoFlow River 2

This compact powerhouse proves invaluable aboard vessels for:

• Charging essential navigation devices and communication equipment
• Powering inspection lamps and torches during night sailing
• Running small appliances like fans, mini-fridges, or laptops
• Charging cordless tool batteries during boat maintenance

The River 2 Max has proven indispensable for sailors working on boats with limited existing electrical systems, providing reliable power whilst maintaining minimal space requirements.

Ocean Signal MOB2 Beacon

Image source: oceansignal.com

Let's be honest about this one – man overboard situations are every sailor's worst nightmare.

That's precisely why the Ocean Signal rescueME MOB2  makes such a thoughtful gift. When someone goes over the side, especially at night or in rough conditions, every second counts.

What makes the MOB2 special

The clever thing about this little device is how it combines two essential safety technologies in one compact unit:

• Advanced AIS (Automatic Identification System) tracking
• Integrated DSC (Digital Selective Calling) transceiver

At half the size of other similar products, it tucks neatly inside inflatable lifejackets and activates automatically when the lifejacket inflates. Once it's triggered, you get that first crucial alert within just 15 seconds, broadcasting precise GPS coordinates to any vessel within a 5-mile radius.

The dual Infrared and White strobe lights make all the difference for nighttime visibility, and there's even NFC technology so you can connect it to your smartphone through the Ocean Signal app.

Why this is a genuinely life-saving kit

Anyone who's spent time at sea knows how quickly someone can disappear from view, even in moderate conditions. The MOB2's immediate location broadcasting through both AIS and DSC dramatically improves the chances of a successful rescue by providing real-time tracking for nearby vessels.

What you'll pay

The rescueME MOB2 typically costs £312.90 including VAT (£260.75 excluding VAT).

When it really comes into its own

This kit is particularly valuable for offshore sailing where rescue response times are critical. The strobe functionality makes it especially useful for night sailing scenarios. With a 5-year battery life and the ability to operate for 24 hours even at -20°C, you can rely on it working when you need it most.

Dryrobe Changing Mat

Changing clothes on a wet deck or muddy shoreline... well, we've all been there. The Dryrobe Changing Mat tackles this everyday sailing challenge with thoughtful design that actually makes sense for life on the water.

What makes the Dryrobe Mat work

This mat gives you a clean, dry 60cm x 60cm surface for getting in and out of wetsuits or sailing gear. What we particularly like is its dual-layer construction – there's a water-repellent outer shell made from 100% recycled nylon with an ultra-soft synthetic lambswool inner lining crafted from 100% recycled polyester. The eco-conscious design carries Global Recycle Standard certification, and it rolls up compactly with an attached elastic strap for easy transport.

Why sailors find this mat so useful

The real benefit comes from that super-warm fleece surface that actively draws water away from wet feet into the fabric pile. This wicking capability makes those cold, damp changing sessions much more bearable – something anyone who's tried changing out of a wetsuit in a force 4 will appreciate.

The PFC-free BIONIC-FINISH®ECO water-repellent treatment means the mat won't get soaked even when you place it on wet surfaces, which is pretty much everywhere when you're sailing.

What you'll pay

Around £20 typically, which represents excellent value for such a practical bit of kit.

When you'll use the Dryrobe Mat

Perfect for those moments when you're changing before or after swimming, surfing or other watersports activities. The quick-drying properties make it ideal for repeated use throughout sailing weekends – and being machine washable means it stays fresh between adventures without any fuss.

Sugru Mouldable Glue

Image source: amazon.com

Boat repairs often need creative solutions, and Sugru Mouldable Glue delivers exactly that with its clever formula that starts like Play-Doh but sets into proper silicone rubber.

What makes Sugru special

Sugru's rather brilliant – you've got 30 minutes to mould it into whatever shape you need before it cures into flexible silicone rubber within 24 hours. This remarkable stuff handles:

• Temperature extremes from -40°C right up to 180°C
• Complete waterproofing – perfect for marine environments
• Impressive strength, holding up to 2kg when fully set
• Electrical insulation (safe for low current applications under 24V)

It sticks permanently to glass, ceramics, wood, metal, most plastics and fabrics, creating permanent bonds that last.

Why sailors love Sugru

We've seen this stuff work wonders aboard boats. It's particularly good at fixing split bilge pump diaphragms, sealing awkward through-bulkhead connections, and waterproofing electrical joints. Where traditional glues give up, Sugru just gets on with the job.

What you'll pay

Eight small sachets typically cost around £13, while three-packs in different colours run from £3 to £9.99.

Where Sugru really shines

Onboard, you'll find yourself using it for:

• Fixing or reinforcing cables and chargers
• Creating better grips on equipment
• Sealing around deck fittings
• Mending flip-flops and deck shoes

One thing to remember – shelf life is about 13 months, though you can stretch that to 2+ years by keeping it in the fridge.

Yeti Rambler 36oz Bottle

Image source: t3.com

Proper hydration aboard becomes absolutely crucial during long days on the water. The Yeti Rambler 36oz Bottle delivers exactly what sailors need – reliable temperature control in a bottle built to handle whatever conditions you throw at it.

What makes the Yeti Rambler special

This isn't just another water bottle. The Rambler's built with serious kit:

• Double-wall vacuum insulation that keeps drinks hot or cold for hours
• 18/8 kitchen-grade stainless steel construction that laughs off knocks and salt spray
• 100% leakproof design so you can chuck it in your kit bag without worry
• No Sweat™ exterior means no condensation rings on your chart table
• 1.1 litre (36oz) capacity – enough to keep you going through a full day's sailing
• Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning back at the marina

At 9.7cm wide by 29.5cm high and weighing 700g empty, it's substantial but not unwieldy in the cockpit.

Why sailors rate the Yeti Rambler

We've seen these bottles take quite a beating and keep on going. Drop one on concrete? You might get a small dent, but it'll still do the job perfectly. The wide mouth makes it dead easy to add ice cubes, and you can swap caps depending on what you need – straw lids for sipping while helming, or cup lids for sharing hot drinks on anchor watch.

Yeti Rambler pricing

You're looking at around £49.99-£50, which represents solid value when you consider Yeti's five-year warranty.

Where the Yeti Rambler really shines

This bottle comes into its own during:

• Those long coastal passages where fresh water matters
• Day sailing when you're miles from the nearest tap
• Night passages when hot tea or coffee keeps the watch bearable
• Beach picnics after a good day's sailing

Perfect for sailors who appreciate kit that just works, day after day.

C-monsta Wetsuit Hanger

Image source: c-monsta.com

Anyone who's tried to dry a wetsuit properly on a boat knows the struggle…

Storage space is always at a premium aboard, and keeping wet gear organised can be a real headache. The C-monsta Wetsuit Hanger tackles both these challenges with some clever design thinking that's clearly been done by people who actually understand the problem.

What makes the C-monsta special

The C-monsta V2 Hanger brings together some thoughtful engineering with genuinely practical features:

• Robust build that'll support up to 15kg of wet gear
• All-in-one design with dedicated spaces for wetsuits, gloves, and boots
• Eco-friendly construction using recycled high-durability materials
• Adjustable strap with a chunky non-scratch plastic hook
• Self-draining design that actually helps things dry faster

Why sailors appreciate proper wetsuit storage

Here's the thing about wetsuit care – most people get it wrong. Ordinary hangers create pressure points that damage the neoprene, but the C-monsta's wide, curved design spreads the weight evenly across the shoulders.

What we particularly like is how the boot holders keep footwear propped open, which speeds up drying and prevents those unpleasant odours that develop when wet boots are left closed. That's the kind of detail that shows someone's actually used the kit they're designing.

C-monsta pricing

A single hanger typically costs £27.80, though there are better value options if you need more than one:

• Double pack: £54 (works out at £27 per hanger)
• Family pack (4 hangers): £90 (£22.50 each)

When you'll find the C-monsta useful

This versatile bit of kit works brilliantly for sailing, windsurfing, diving, and sea swimming. It's particularly valuable when you're doing multiple sessions and need gear to dry quickly between outings – nothing worse than putting on damp kit when you're already cold.

The compact design makes it perfect for boats where every inch of storage space counts, and it helps keep expensive gear in good condition by preventing mildew and damage.

Quick comparison

Here's everything we've covered at a glance...

We know it can be helpful to see all the options side by side, so we've put together this quick reference table with the key details for each gift. Whether you're trying to stick to a budget or looking for something specific, this should help you find exactly what you need.

Getting it right

Choosing a Christmas gift for the sailor in your life really doesn't have to be such a headache. We've put together these 15 options because each one tackles real problems that come up when you're out on the water – from the Victorinox Skipper that handles countless daily tasks to the C-monsta Hanger that sorts out that perennial wetsuit storage problem.

Safety kits like the Ocean Signal MOB2 Beacon and Garmin InReach Messenger give peace of mind to everyone – both the sailor and those waiting for them back home. Then you've got the practical everyday gear like the Fenix Shadowmaster Headtorch and Gill Deckhand Gloves that make those long days afloat much more comfortable.

What matters most is that we've focused on things that actually get used. Every single recommendation comes from our own sailing experience and conversations with crews who know what it's really like living aboard boats.

Pick any of these gifts and you're showing real thoughtfulness. Your sailor will know you've chosen something designed specifically for their passion rather than just grabbing something generic off the shelf. Whether you're looking at the premium end with something like the Garmin Quatix 7 or keeping things more modest with the Sealskinz Beanie, you'll find proper quality and genuine usefulness in every suggestion.

The bonus? Most of these work brilliantly for other outdoor adventures too, so they'll get plenty of use even when the boat's hauled out for winter. We hope this guide helps you find exactly what you're looking for this Christmas!