🎁 The Best Gift Ideas for a Sailor (All Under £100!)
Shopping for someone who loves the sea isn’t always plain sailing. Sailors are practical people - they like things that work, not just things that look nice on a shelf. So if you’re looking for gift ideas for a sailor or boat owner that strike the balance between useful, thoughtful, and affordable, you’re in the right place.
We’ve pulled together our favourite gifts for sailors (UK edition) - all under £100 - from waterproof gadgets to nautical home décor. Perfect for birthdays, Christmas, or a little treat before the next adventure afloat.
Waterproof Dry Bags & Duffel Bags
Keep It All Bone Dry
Every sailor needs at least one good dry bag for keeping a phone safe on the dinghy or spare clothes dry on a wet crossing. These bags are essential. They come in all sizes and colours, and they’re one of those gifts that’ll get used again and again.
👉 Great for: weekend sailors, paddleboarders, or anyone prone to dropping things overboard.
Jobe Towables
Fun for Every Crew
A towable tube might not be the first thing you think of when buying nautical presents, but trust us - it’s one of the most fun. Perfect for families or thrill-seeking crews who love a day on the water.
You can find great quality Jobe towables at Morgan Marine Chandlery, with the Jobe Swath coming in under £100. They’re guaranteed to create lasting memories (and plenty of laughter).
Boat Deck Shoes
Grip Meets Comfort
Forget soggy trainers. A good pair of aqua shoes or boat deck shoes are worth their weight in gold. They’re lightweight, quick-drying, and made to grip wet decks.
Look for reputable brands like Orca Bay, Jobe, or Musto. They’re designed to last, and your sailor will thank you next time they’re running around the marina in comfort.
Helly Hansen Crew Jacket
A Classic Under £100
A proper Helly Hansen Men’s Crew Jacket is a timeless bit of kit. Smart enough for town, tough enough for the water. If you spot one in the sales, grab it. It’s easily one of the best gifts for boating enthusiasts that looks far more expensive than it is.
Midlayers & Fleeces
Because Warm Is Always in Fashion
Every sailor knows that layering is key. A quality midlayer or fleece makes an excellent gift - it’s practical, unisex, and guaranteed to be worn year-round. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics and high collars for wind protection.
Midlayers and Fleeces under £100 →
Sailing Watches
Style That Performs
The best sailing watch is one of those items that feels special but doesn’t have to cost the earth. Many affordable models include features like timers, alarms, and water resistance - perfect for racing, cruising, or just timing tea breaks on deck.
Optimum Time OS Series Sailing Watch →
Marine-Themed Home Décor
Bring the Coast Indoors
If your sailor spends more time ashore than afloat (or likes to hide inside the cabin!), go for marine-themed home décor: blankets with nautical stripes, anchor-patterned cushions, or mirrors made from reclaimed wood. It’s an easy way to add a coastal touch to any home, and makes a thoughtful alternative to another bit of boat kit.
Anchor Marine Boat Fenders
The Unsung Heroes of Any Boat
Not the flashiest gift, but definitely one of the most useful. Fenders protect boats from knocks and scrapes when docking - and they always need replacing eventually.
Add a bit of personal flair by picking colours that match their boat. Practical, thoughtful, and guaranteed to be used.
Handheld VHF Marine Radio
Safety, Sorted
A handheld VHF marine radio is one of the best navigational tools you can buy for under £100. Ideal as a backup for the main radio or for small boats and tenders. It’s a gift that gives peace of mind - and that’s priceless.
Plastimo SX-350 Handheld VHF Radio →
Cobra HH150 Handheld VHF Marine Radio →
🎁 Bonus:
Dog Coat Waterproof Fleece
For the First Mate with Four Legs
Because the skipper’s dog deserves to stay dry too. A waterproof dog coat is the ultimate finishing touch for your gift list - practical, adorable, and guaranteed to get tails wagging. For the best waterproof dog coat with harness hole, take a look at Dryrobe Dog!
Final Thoughts
Finding the best gifts for sailors doesn’t have to mean expensive tech or complicated gear. Sometimes the most appreciated presents are the ones that make life at sea (or back on land) that bit easier.
If you’re stuck on where to start, pop into our chandlery or browse our online store for boating and marine supplies, and even a few unexpected finds.
FAQs
What are the best gifts for a sailor under £100?
Dry bags, midlayers, deck shoes, fenders, and handheld VHFs are all brilliant options that combine practicality and value.
Where can I buy gifts for sailors in the UK?
You’ll find a great selection online at Morgan Marine’s chandlery store, shipping UK-wide. Or, visit us in Brightlingsea, Essex.
What do you buy someone who loves sailing?
Look for practical gear they’ll actually use on board, or go for coastal-inspired home décor that keeps the sea close, even on dry land.
