Father’s Day 2025 is fast approaching! If you’re looking for a way to spoil your dad, boating should be on your radar on Sunday, June 15th. Whether he’s an active boater, new to the sport, or simply enjoys spending time on the water, a nautical adventure is sure to put a smile on his face. It’s the perfect way to kickstart the boating season and make memories that last a lifetime. Below, we’ve put together these tips and ideas for spending this Father’s day on a boat.
1. Rent a Boat
Just because you don’t own a boat doesn’t mean you can't give your dad the boating experience he deserves. There are plenty of boat rentals available, from pontoon boats and chartered yachts to everything in between, you can find an option that meets your needs. If your dad has a blast and you decide to make boating a regular thing, a boat club membership may be in your (or his) future.
2. Fishing
Fishing is an iconic Father’s Day activity that’s so much more fun on a boat. Your dad can show off his fishing skills for a few hours or embark on a full-day fishing trip with plenty of good food, spirits, and surprises along the way. Pro tip: If he’s a fishing enthusiast, do some research and take him to a new, unexpected spot.
3. Water Sports
Water sports are ideal for the active dad that can’t sit still. Depending on your preferred location, this may mean an action-packed day of scuba diving, kiteboarding, windsurfing, flyboarding, snorkeling, wakeboarding, or parasailing. No matter which option you choose, you’re bound to give your dad a thrilling experience he’ll never forget.
4. Brunch Cruise
For a relaxing daytime adventure with your dad, you can’t go wrong with a brunch cruise. Whip up (or pick up) his favorites so he can take back and relax without any responsibility. If you’re feeling fancy, hire a captain, crew, and maybe even a chef to do the heavy lifting for you so that everyone can truly enjoy the day to the fullest.
5. Boat Cookout
Is your dad a grilling and BBQ kind of guy? If so, a cookout (during the day or evening) on a boat won’t disappoint. You can give him the option to grill his signatures or let someone else take care of the work. Whatever you do, make sure you have plenty of his favorite drinks on board. Also, a few scenic stops along the way can take the experience to a whole new level.
6. Trip to a Waterfront Restaurant
Here’s another food-related idea: Pull a boat up to a waterfront restaurant on an ocean or lake and treat him to an unforgettable meal with breathtaking views. To extend your Father’s Day celebration, enjoy some good ol’ fashioned cruising, fishing, or even some water sports (before the meal, of course).
7. Cruising
For a more laid back vibe, a day of cruising is the way to go. Dad can play captain (or not) and everyone can soak in the sunshine and picturesque scenery. Don’t be afraid to get creative to elevate the adventure. Maybe you play his favorite card game. Or perhaps you have a dance party to his favorite tunes. You can always ask him what he prefers and plan accordingly.
8. Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise is also a great idea if you’re looking for something relaxing on the water. Sail into the sunset with dad and all the other important people in his life. Don’t have a boat? You can always rent one or find a company that offers sunset cruises with the works: live music, drinks, and gourmet dining.
Supplement the Boat Experience with Some Accessories
To really spoil your dad, find the boat accessories that will kick his adventure up a few notches. If he’s into fishing, maybe new gear is in order. If he’s more of a watersports guy, now might be the time to buy the jet skis or paddleboard he’s been eyeing. Boating accessories may also make sense if you won’t have the luxury of spending Father’s Day with your dad. A package of his favorite goodies can make his day.
In Search of Father’s Day Boat Rentals? Discover Boating Can Help
If you’re ready to plan your Father’s Day boating adventure but don’t own a boat of your own, don’t fret. We make it a breeze to find countless boat rentals that can allow you to access a vessel for a few hours, days, or even longer than that.
Regardless of whether you choose to rent a boat or use your own, we know Father’s Day 2025 on the water will be one for the books. Just remember to make boat safety top of mind as it’s a busy weekend and there’s a good chance you’ll see plenty of other vessels out and about.
