Gift ideas for (young) boat kids
Gift guides
Nov 21, 2025
Boat kids are a special kind of kid, and they need things that fit the way they live.
Growing up on the water gives kids a unique mix of curiosity, confidence, and creativity. They make friends anywhere, adapt quickly, and learn to understand the world around them in a way that only comes from life afloat. This guide is built with that in mind—quality items that work in small spaces, spark imagination, and support the skills and interests that come naturally to boat kids. These are things that fit their lifestyle and help them enjoy every moment on and off the water.
Kid's Wetsuit- Xcel
Caroline's pick.
Our children have grown up on the water. It is their home. Wetsuits are a great way to keep sun off their backs and keep them warm in the water for extended periods of time. This suit has been a dream that has given us a couple of years as they grow and remains in good enough shape to pass down to the next lucky kiddo.
Buy it here →
10% OFF with code SEAPEOPLEAPP10
Nautical Flag Book- Alpha Bravo Charlie
This book teaches kids fun facts about each of the nautical flags. This might be a system of the past but it is a great way to have kids interact with maritime history in a screen free way.
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Infant Life Jacket- Mustang Survival
Every infant around the world is crying that a life jacket is on the gift guide. It may not be their favorite item, but you only want the best when it comes to life jacket protection. This is what we trusted on our kids.
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Card game for kids- Sleeping Queens
An addictive card game that kids usually pick up quicker than adults. We are always looking for ways to entertain in a screen free way during passage or at anchor.
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Kid's Frameless Dive Mask- Cressi
For our little fish who want to be in the water right next to us, seeing with clarity and comfort.
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Hooded Towel Shirt for Kids - Mini Boden
These zip-up towel thingies are the best. For those moments after a swim when the kids want warmth and comfort. Also, a great way to go from beach to boat and keeping the sand out of the boat.
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Fishing Rod- UglyStik
Keep them entertained for hours with a fishing rod and keep yourself entertained for hours when you have to clear the birds nest from the fishing rod/reel. A real casting rod/ reel combo will teach them mechanics and patience.
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Kid's Harness- Petzl
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Floor Puzzle- Melissa & Doug
A great way to use the brain and pass time onboard.
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Kids Camera
Let the kids keep their own travel photo journal through their eyes/ lens.
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30% OFF during their Black Friday Sale
Learn about boats book- Alphabet Boats
Did you know there is a different boat for each letter of the alphabet? A fun way to learn their ABCs and learn about boating culture at the same time.
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Space saving builder toys- Magna- Tiles
Not only do Magna-Tiles take up little space, they stick together for easy containment and prevent you from stepping on tiny little lost Legos while barefoot on the boat. Perfect for the creative and builder oriented boat kids.
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Collapsible Tub- Stokke
Kids love baths and bath tubs are super rare on a boat. As a treat, fill this up with precious warm water and let them play in the bath. It will bring a smile to your face and theirs, promise. Also a great way to rinse a small child after a day in the sand.
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Drawing Kit for kids- Ikea
Contained drawing kit for easy transport and storage.
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Make Ice Cream Anywhere- Play & Freeze Ice Cream ball
Yes this is gimicky. Yes this takes up space. Yes it needs ice and rock salt. BUT….it is pretty cool for the kids to see ice cream made while having fun with a ball.
