The most important things to bring on a Florida boat tour are reef-safe sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, a hat, plenty of water, and quick-dry clothing. A light jacket is recommended for cooler mornings, early spring, and fall departures — the breeze on the water can feel significantly cooler than the air temperature on shore. Water shoes are helpful for sandbar walks.
What to Bring on a Boat Tour in Florida
Knowing what to bring on a boat tour in Florida makes the difference between a comfortable day on the water and a miserable one. Florida’s Gulf Coast sun is intense, the breeze on the water can surprise you, and conditions can change throughout the day — preparation makes everything more enjoyable.
Sun protection — the most important category
Reef-safe sunscreen
The single most important item on the list. UV exposure on the water is significantly stronger than on land because sunlight reflects off the water surface — you can burn in both directions simultaneously. Apply before you board and reapply every 90 minutes. Reef-safe sunscreen is strongly recommended near natural areas, sandbars, and anywhere you might swim. SPF 50 or higher is recommended for any Florida boat charter.
Polarized sunglasses
Polarized lenses cut glare off the water surface dramatically and make it much easier to spot dolphins, rays, and other marine life beneath the surface. If you wear prescription glasses bring a strap or retainer — losing glasses overboard is more common than people expect. With polarized glasses you can usually see wildlife in the water better.
A wide-brimmed hat
A full-brim hat provides the best protection for your face, ears, and neck. Baseball caps work but leave the sides and back of your neck exposed. For full-day charters in summer a wide-brim hat makes a noticeable difference in comfort.
Rash guards and UPF clothing
Long-sleeve rash guards and UPF-rated shirts are increasingly popular on boat charters — they provide consistent sun protection without needing to reapply sunscreen to covered areas. Especially recommended for children and for guests prone to burning.
A light jacket — more important than most people expect
This one surprises a lot of guests. Even on a warm Florida day the breeze on the water can feel significantly cooler than the air temperature on shore — especially at speed. Morning departures in spring and fall can start quite cool on the water even when the afternoon heats up nicely. In winter a proper jacket is essential. In summer a light layer is still worth having for early morning departures or in case of a sea breeze picking up. A light zip-up or windbreaker that packs small is ideal — you may not need it but you’ll be glad it’s there if you do.
Footwear — bring the right shoes Water shoes for sandbar walks
If your charter includes a sandbar stop — and most do — water shoes make a significant difference. Sandbars near Clearwater are natural and can have shells, broken coral, and uneven surfaces underfoot. Walking on a natural sandbar barefoot is doable but water shoes make it much more comfortable, especially for longer stops and for guests with sensitive feet. Kids especially benefit from water shoes at sandbar stops.
Flip flops or sandals for the boat
Easy on and off footwear is ideal for getting on and off the boat and moving between the deck and the water. Avoid heavy sneakers or boots that are difficult to remove.
Clothing — what to wear on a Florida boat tour
Quick-dry fabrics are far more comfortable than cotton on a boat — cotton stays wet and gets heavy. Board shorts, swimwear, and athletic fabrics all work well. Bring a swimsuit even if you’re not planning to swim — conditions and plans change on the water. A light cover-up or shorts over your swimsuit is comfortable for the boat portions of the trip.
What to bring for food and drinks
Wayward Key Tours provides a cooler, water and ice onboard. Guests are welcome and encouraged to bring their own food and drinks. A few suggestions:
- Plenty of water — more than you think you need. Heat, sun, and salt air dehydrate quickly
- Easy snacks that don’t require refrigeration — granola bars, fruit, crackers, sandwiches
- Alcoholic beverages are welcome for adult guests
- Reusable water bottles that keep drinks cold are ideal
What to bring for photos and memories
- A waterproof phone case — the Gulf water and spray can damage phones quickly
- A GoPro or waterproof camera if you have one — especially useful at sandbar stops and snorkeling
- A dry bag for any electronics, wallets, and items you want to keep completely dry
What Wayward Key Tours provides
You don’t need to bring everything — Wayward Key Tours has you covered on several fronts. Every charter includes a Sunchill float, bean bags, chair floaties, fresh water shower, restroom onboard, Bluetooth music, cooler, and ice. Snorkeling equipment is available onboard for charters that include snorkeling stops.
What to leave at home
- Heavy bags and large suitcases — storage on a 23-foot boat is limited
- Valuables you can’t afford to lose or get wet
- Non-quick-dry clothing as your only option
- Glass bottles — plastic or cans are much safer on a boat
- shiny jewelry because creatures of the sea think it’s bait fish
A note on seasickness
The Gulf of Mexico near Clearwater is generally calm — far calmer than ocean waters — and most guests have no issues. However if you or anyone in your group is prone to motion sickness, take preventative medication before boarding rather than waiting until you feel symptoms. Dramamine or Sea-Bands worn before departure are much more effective than anything taken after symptoms begin.
Questions? Call or text 727-355-3717 or email contact@waywardkeytours.com.