Sweater Weather: What to Pack on Board when Fall Boating

Fall is an excellent time for a weekend cruise. The summer crowds begin to thin, the scenery becomes bright and colorful, and the crisp weather is lovely. That said, you will need to make some changes in order to enjoy fall boating. Mornings and evenings can feel surprisingly chilly and the sun doesn’t stay out as long. The gear that kept you comfortable simply isn’t going to cut it during the autumn months.

This is what you’re going to want to add to the boat before you head out for a fall weekend cruise. 

Add a Few Layers for Changing Temperatures

Obviously, you are going to want to dress for the changing weather conditions. The problem? The weather can change wildly during an autumn day. A sunny afternoon may still feel almost like summer, but morning and evening are both sure to be on the chilly side. On top of that, wind across the water can make temperatures feel even cooler, especially when you’re moving.

Instead of dressing for cold weather and enduring the afternoon heat, dress in light layers. It’s best to start with moisture-wicking base layers, followed by a fleece, sweater, or lightweight insulated jacket. A windproof and water-resistant outer layer is also a good idea, especially when fall boating. Dressing this way allows you to remove layers as the weather warms up and replace them as needed. 

We also recommend keeping a few extra items aboard for guests who may not have dressed for the conditions. These might include fleece jackets, water-resistant outerwear, warm socks and spare shoes, and knit hats or beanies.

Stock Up on Cozy Cockpit Comforts

One of the best things about fall boating is spending time outside without the heat of summer. The cockpit is one of the best places to bask in the autumn sunshine and enjoy the view. 

That said, a few small additions can make that space even more inviting when temperatures dip. Start with washable outdoor seat pads to add some insulation to the cockpit seating. Throw pillows and quick-drying blankets are also a great addition. Be sure to choose materials designed for marine or outdoor use and store blankets in a waterproof bag between uses. 

If your boat has a cockpit enclosure, early fall is a good time to inspect it. Check zippers, snaps, seams, and attachment points before leaving the dock.

Have a boat without an enclosure for the cockpit? A removable windscreen or cockpit cover might be a good investment. Just make sure any cover is compatible with your boat and allows for safe visibility and ventilation. 

Revisit Your Heating Options

If your boat has a cabin, you’re going to want to put that to use on chilly nights. Unfortunately, a cabin that feels perfectly comfortable in summer may become chilly when fall arrives. This is where heating options come into play.

If you happen to have onboard heating, make sure to inspect the system and do any necessary maintenance before turning it on for the season. For smaller boats without built-in heat, warm bedding and insulated sleeping bags may be all you need for an occasional overnight. A comfortable mattress pad, flannel sheets, and an extra blanket can also help hold onto warmth without the use of a heater. 

When it comes to portable heaters, you have to be very careful. It’s important that you only use equipment specifically designed for the marine environment. Be sure to read and follow all instructions carefully for the safety of you and your passengers. 

Another important note? Make sure carbon monoxide alarms are installed and functioning if you’ll be using a propane heat source and keep ventilation openings clear.

Check Safety Gear for Fall Conditions

The beginning of fall is a good time to review your safety equipment. While conditions may still be pleasant, shorter days and cooler water can make some difficult situations even more challenging. Having the correct gear onboard will help in case of an emergency. 

Start by making sure every person aboard has a properly fitted life jacket that is easy to access. Remember that you may be wearing additional layers of clothing, which could affect the fit of your life jacket. Make sure to try your floatation device on with the layers you plan to wear. 

You’ll also want to double-check your communications equipment. Confirm that batteries are charged and that you know how to use the equipment. This will be key if you find yourself in a sticky situation in an area without cell coverage. 

Other things to inspect include:

• Navigation lights and spare bulbs or backup lights if applicable
• Flashlights and headlamps with fresh batteries
• First-aid supplies and any personal medications
• Flares or other approved visual distress signals if applicable
• Fire extinguishers and their service status
• Bilge pumps, alarms, and backup power arrangements
• Charts, navigation electronics, and backup navigation options

Keep in mind that shorter daylight hours mean you may find yourself returning to the marina or anchorage in the dark more often than you did in summer. For this reason, it is important that you test your lights before every departure.

As always, make sure to check the forecast and local marine conditions before you head out. It’s also good to make sure your plans account for the possibility of changing weather, especially in fall when things can change quickly. 

Prepare for Cooler Water, Not Just Cooler Air

Depending on your location, the water may stay relatively warm through the fall. That said, it could already be cold enough to pose a serious risk if someone falls overboard. Unfortunately, when a person is unexpectedly immersed in cold water, they can lose physical ability quickly, which can lead to some very dangerous situations. 

Because of this, some boaters might choose to add a wetsuit or dry suit to their boating apparel. On top of that, you will want to ensure everyone onboard understands how to move safely around the boat and has an appropriate life jacket to wear. Make sure you also review your man-overboard procedures with everyone on the boat.

Update Your Lighting for Earlier Sunsets

As autumn progresses, sunset arrives earlier. This means the window for daylight cruising gets shorter and makes lighting more important than ever. 

Start with personal lighting. We recommend keeping headlamps for each person onboard. These are ideal because they leave hands free for taking care of various tasks. You might also want to keep a couple of powerful flashlights on hand. 

Next, make sure to check your boat’s navigation lights. Make sure they work, the lenses are clean, and the wiring and connections don’t show signs of damage. 

As far as cabin and cockpit areas go, consider low-power LED lights designed for marine use. Adjustable lighting can help create a comfortable atmosphere while preserving battery capacity.

If you use battery-powered lanterns, secure them so they won’t slide or tip over. 

It is also worth reviewing your battery capacity before a weekend away. The increased use of lights or cabin systems can add to your electrical demands, meaning you might need more battery power than usual. 

Add a Few Small Touches for a Fall Weekend

Not every fall change or upgrade needs to be practical or safety-related. Some of the best touches are little things that make your boat feel like a getaway. 

Start in the galley. Make sure you stock up on warm, easy-to-prepare meals that will feel satisfying in the chilly weather. Soups and stews are a good choice. If you don’t have a way to heat them onboard, consider packing a thermos full of soup. It’s also nice to set up a hot drink station. A kettle for warming water and some tea bags and hot cocoa can go a long way on a cold autumn night. 

Add some pillows and throw blankets wherever possible to add to the cozy feel and see about adding some mood lighting while you’re upgrading the lighting onboard. 

Other things you may want to pack to make your trip more exciting include:

• A compact pair of binoculars, which can make it easier to watch wildlife or enjoy distant scenery. 
• A field guide or downloaded nature app, which can add a fun element to exploring a new anchorage.
• A camera for capturing photos of the beautiful fall scenery. 
• A favorite book, a journal, or a small travel game. 

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