Boating over the winter season may not have the same sun-soaked buzz of summer, but it offers its own kind of magic. Still mornings, crisp air, empty fishing spots, and a chance to escape the crowds. But let’s be honest, it also comes with its fair share of challenges, above dipping a toe in the freezing water as you launch the boat. Cold weather doesn’t just affect comfort, it impacts your gear, your visibility, and your margin for error.
Preparation is key, and having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you're heading out for a mid-winter mission or simply giving the boat a run, here are seven winter boating essentials that’ll keep you safe, comfortable, and ready for anything.
1. Thermal Wet-Weather Jacket
Keeping warm and dry is more than a just comfort issue, it directly affects your ability to focus and stay alert, especially during long periods at the helm or while dealing with gear. A thermal-lined wet-weather jacket specifically designed for marine use helps cut out the wind chill while keeping you dry from spray, squalls, or at worst an accidental dunk. Look for taped seams, storm cuffs, and adjustable hoods to lock in heat. Even better if it has reflective details which will keep you visible around the clock.
Options include:
- Musto BR1 Inshore Jacket, Stormline Atlantic 806 Fishermans Wet Weather Pullover
- Stormline Atlantic 806 Fishermans Wet Weather Pullover
- Stormline Atlantic 806 Fishermans Wet Weather Pullover
- Stormline Atlantic Fishermans pullover, or Stoney Creek Thermotough, from Marine Deals are built with winter boating in mind.
2. High-Grip Sea Boots
Winter means wet decks, slippery ramps, and cold toes. A good pair of grippy sea boots provides traction in all the right places, helping prevent falls during launching, retrieving, or hauling in gear. They also help insulate your feet from icy water and provide support during long days on your feet. Look for boots with good drainage, anti-slip soles, and reinforced toes, your back and balance will thank you later. These are an absolute must-have if rock fishing or wading, so they definitely rank high on the winter list.
Options like the Adrenalin Adrenalin Comfort Non-Zip Boots
Comfort Non-Zip Boots from Marine Deals are a great all-round piece of kit for boating or rock fishing alike
3. A Reliable Marine Battery
Batteries especially don’t love the cold, and failing power in winter can become a serious problem fast. Whether it’s starting your engine or keeping your electronics powered, your battery takes more strain in cold weather and may need a check-up or replacement if it’s near the end of its life.
Coastguard members can access trade discounts through Century Batteries, making winter the perfect time to test, top up, or upgrade before it catches you out.
4. EPIRB or Personal Locator Beacon
We covered PLBs in detail recently, but winter is a timely reminder to reassess your safety gear. Fewer boats out on the water means fewer eyes if something goes wrong, and a beacon may be your only link to rescue. Check that your unit is registered, charged, and within battery life.
If you’re heading further offshore or boating solo, carrying both an EPIRB and a compact PLB isn’t overkill, it’s smart boating, especially in winter when minimising the time you’re exposed to the elements while awaiting rescue is critical. Check out Hutchwilco for options.
5. Good Torch or Headlamp
Winter days are short, and dusk can creep up fast, especially when cloud cover moves in early. A high-quality torch or headlamp makes early launches, late returns, and emergency situations far more manageable. LED models with waterproof ratings are your best bet, and it’s always worth carrying a backup set of batteries in a dry bag unless you have a rechargeable option.
Brands like Ledlenser, Petzl, or Black Diamond are available at Marine Deals and offer solid marine-ready options.
6. A Quality Thermos
When you’re venturing offshore with a sharp winter wind in your face, sometimes nothing beats a hot drink. A well-insulated thermos lets you carry coffee, tea, soup, or even hot water safely and reliably, without the risks of boiling water on a moving boat.
On smaller vessels, especially jetskis or inflatables, it’s the safest and simplest way to stay warm from the inside out, plus it keeps morale high on those slow fishing days. Stainless vacuum-sealed models from Yeti or Thermos are excellent choices.
7. A Full Winter Safety Recheck
Lastly, take the cold season to run a full safety audit on your vessel and gear. Winter is the perfect season to check lifejackets for wear, confirm flares haven’t expired, test your bilge pump & bailers, and clean or replace first aid supplies. Give all your electronics a run, especially your VHF, make sure your torch works, and store critical items like PLBs, safety kit, and fire extinguishers within easy reach.
And don’t forget, if you're in the market for a new inflatable lifejacket, Marine Deals is currently offering a discount on the Hutchwilco Classic 170N Automatic Water Activated Inflatable in red - a great option for those looking to upgrade their kit in time for winter.
Final Thoughts
Boating through the winter doesn’t have to mean biting cold and risky trips. With the right kit, it can be one of the most peaceful and rewarding times to be on the water. Just like a solid trip plan, the gear you bring helps keep you one step ahead when conditions shift.
So, before you launch this winter, run through your checklist, gear up right, and make sure your waka and your crew are winter ready.