Boat Accessories, Add-ons and Upgrades
Before you hit the water on the boat of your dreams, deck it out with accessories that will help make every day on the water unforgettable.
Boat accessories fall into two categories. There are things you need, like safety equipment, service plans, dock lines and an anchor. And there are things you want, like floats and a grill to enhance your boating experience.
Safety gear
Before you shove off, make sure you have the required safety equipment on board your boat. States regulate what equipment is needed on their waters, while the federal government regulates waters more than three miles off the U.S. coast. The gear you'll need depends on the length of your vessel, how many passengers it can hold and where you're boating.
In general, recreational boaters need the following equipment, at a minimum:
| Equipment |
Description and requirements |
|---|---|
| Personal flotation devices (PFDs), also known as life jackets |
You'll need a wearable and fitted PFD for each person on board. The best practice is to purchase the same number of life jackets as the maximum passenger capacity of the boat, so you'll always have enough. Different types of PFDs may be required for lakes or rivers vs. oceans. |
| Throwable cushion |
A type 4 PFD designed to be thrown to a person who has fallen overboard. Most recreational boats are required to have one, though it's a good idea to have two. |
| Fire extinguisher |
You'll need one B-1 type fire extinguisher if your boat is less than 26 feet long. If it's 26 to 39 feet, you'll need two B-1 types or one B-2 type extinguisher. |
| Visual signaling devices |
Flares or emergency lights let other vessels know you're in trouble. They're required in most states for boats longer than 16 feet. |
| Sound signaling device |
This is simply a horn or whistle used to signal distress. Your boat may have one built in, but if it's longer than 39 feet, there are additional requirements. |
| Ropes and anchor |
Although ropes and an anchor aren't required by law, they're critical safety equipment for securing your boat on the water or at the dock. |
Popular boat accessories
Even if marine patrol doesn't require them, these popular boat accessories can go a long way in making a day on the water more enjoyable. Consider these accessories to help keep you cool, comfortable and organized:
| Item |
Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dry bag or box |
Need to keep your phone or your registration from getting waterlogged? Drop them in dry bags or boxes designed to keep water out. Don't forget a floating key chain to help make sure your boat key doesn't accidentally sink. |
| Storage compartment |
Outfit your boat with a storage solution that works for you. If you swim or water ski frequently, choose a bin big enough for towels. If you have valuables in the boat, opt for a locking storage bin similar to a car's glove compartment. |
| Cooler |
Boaters can be at increased risk for dehydration. Fill a cooler with water and other cold drinks to help stay hydrated on the water. |
| Navigation system |
A boat GPS navigation system can make it easy to stay on course. If you enjoy fishing, choose a model with a fish finder. |
| Bumpers |
Bumpers (or fenders) help protect your paint when you're at a dock or rafted onto another boat. Most boats need two to four of them. |
| Trailer |
If you plan to explore different waterways, you'll need a trailer to transport your boat. |
| Bimini |
A bimini provides shade during long days on the water— which is important, especially if you're boating with kids. |
Nice-to-have boat accessories
Fun boat accessories can take your boating experience to the next level, plus purchasing them with the Synchrony Outdoors credit card at enrolled powersports dealers can help make it easy.* Picture how you want to spend your time on the water. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, prefer to spend your days relaxing or like to entertain, here are a few ideas to get you started:
Floats
Sometimes it's nice to get off the boat and into the water. From classic noodles and inflatable swans to massive floating foam rafts that roll up, today's float options seem endless.
Water sports equipment
Give your passengers the ride of their lives with a tube, skis or a wakeboard. Sporting equipment for the water can cost a few hundred dollars each. You'll also need accessories for your equipment, like a ski rope and PFDs.
Cooking and serving supplies
Who needs waterfront dining when you can eat right on the water? Having meals on board can keep you from cutting a boat day short because someone's hungry. Accessories like a marine grill, portable table, and marine dinnerware set, are helpful whether you're grilling burgers and hot dogs or serving gourmet meals.
A toilet
It isn't glamorous, but a self-contained toilet can ease your mind in cases of emergency. For bathroom breaks and changing clothes, you might hang a privacy curtain from the bimini.
Equipment upgrades
Most boats come with the basics, but you might find that the standard equipment isn't up to par. Basic equipment upgrades, like cupholders, a USB charger and fishing rod holders are relatively inexpensive. Mid-range upgrades, like a better marine stereo or subwoofer, will cost a few hundred dollars to $1,000 or more, depending on the system you choose and labor costs.
Boat service plans
Each year, expect to spend 7% to 10% of the cost of your boat on maintenance and operating costs. A service plan can help you plan for some of those costs, which may be eligible for financing. If you're buying a boat, factor these intangible accessories into your budget:
- Insurance: Boat insurance typically costs 1% to 3% of your boat's value per year.
- Towing service: Just like AAA can help you if your car dies on the road, towing services are there if your boat has mechanical trouble on the water. Expect to pay around $179+ per year for this service or combine it with your insurance.
- Service contract: Also known as an extended warranty, a service contract can help you predict the cost of repairs. Its price and deductible can vary widely based on the boat.
- Storage and slip fees: If you're storing your boat at a marina or procuring a dock slip, costs add up quickly. Annual slip fees vary between $12 and $240 per foot of boat length; storage fees will cost you about the same.
The benefit of financing boat accessories
Boating costs can add up, but we have some options to help you finance services and add-ons to make the most of your investment.
For bigger ticket items, you might consider financing them with a Synchrony installment loan, which offers flexible terms, allowing you to pay back the loan over time and make convenient monthly payments.**
For ongoing maintenance and service, the Synchrony Outdoors credit card can be used at powersports retailers for the parts, gear, accessories and even fuel you need to maintain your boat (or other powersports vehicle).* Whatever the weather and whatever the gear, the Synchrony Outdoors credit card can help you kickstart your great escape.
Activate your adventure and apply today.
*Subject to credit approval. See Synchrony Outdoors | MySynchrony for details.
**Offer subject to credit approval by Synchrony Bank.
