‘Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to spread holiday cheer than with gifts perfect for the salty sailors and minimalists in your life? After nearly six years aboard Avocet, we’ve learned that the most cherished gifts are often those that make life easier, spark joy, or offer an unforgettable experience. In this third edition of our gift guide, we’ve updated our list with new favorites and trusted essentials that any seafarer or minimalist will appreciate, season after season. So, whether you’re shopping for an adventure-seeker or a lover of simplicity, we’re here to help you find just the right gift to make waves this holiday. Let’s dive in!
1. Luci Lights ($15 – $45)
Luci Lights made our previous gift guide list from 2020, but they are just so good we felt the need to include them again (and again). They are a must-have for any sailor or traveler since they collapse and solar charge, providing hours of light during night passages or illuminating a dark campground. They come in many shapes and sizes, we have the original but have put the “twinkle lights” on our wish list after seeing them aboard our friends’ boat, Esprit!
2. Quality Headlamp with Red Light Mode ($17.99)
Keeping in the theme of “lights” headlamps are always a great gift, and we have recently found that these LED Headlamps that are low profile, wide light pattern, rechargeable and comfortable. In previous Gift guides we have grouped this item in with the Lucy Lights above, but realized it is deserving of a line of its own because of how useful it is. A headlamp is indispensable on a boat, and one with a red light option preserves night vision! This is a frequently used piece of equipment and would make any sailor or outdoor enthusiast stoked.
3. Solar Charger ($29.97)
Solar chargers are great for minimalists and essential for sailors out on the water. They are compact, and a reliable way to charge devices sustainably. My dad has been known to give these out as gifts, and each time he does they are a hit!
4. Dry Bags ($20 – $50)
Dry bags are crucial for any sailor providing protection from the environment from which they live. Chris and I have tried out a handful of dry bags in differing sizes and have found that a small/medium bag stuffed with goodies makes a great boat-warming gift or gift for the holidays. A great thing about dry bags is they are not only for sailors but any outdoor enthusiast! The backpack dry bags are one of my favorites, see the styles HERE
5. Waterproof Speaker ($129.97)
A small, rugged waterproof speaker is a fantastic gift for sailors and minimalists alike, adding just the right touch of joy to any situation. For sailors, it’s the perfect way to bring music, audiobooks, or podcasts into their daily life at sea, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Lightweight, compact, and durable, a well-chosen speaker won’t take up much space, and being waterproof ensures it can handle the occasional splash, salty air, or humid conditions. This one is highly reviewed and loved by sailors.
6. Noise Canceling Headphones ($50 – $150)
Wireless headphones are a good gift for anybody, but when Chris and I were in the boatyard they were lifesavers keeping us sane in the constant state of noise. With wireless headphones we were able to put on our favorite music or audiobook and tune out the outside world, focusing on the tasks at hand. There are many types of wireless headphones but we prefer noise-canceling ones like THESE. A pair of AirPods would also be an awesome gift – I always had one in during night passages to listen to audiobooks or music which really set the scene for me to pretend I was in my own music video. A gift that keeps giving!
7. Coffee ($15 – $20)
We love our coffee aboard Avocet; it is not only a morning must, but somewhat of a ritual which is why we take our coffee brands seriously. Fortunately, Salty Sailor coffee is delicious and benefits. a veteran-owned coffee brand on a mission to deliver premium fresh roasted coffee while making a positive impact on the world. Their motto, “Drink Coffee & Do Good,” reflects our commitment to supporting our military community and upholding ethical and sustainable practices. We proudly donate 10% of every sale to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), an organization dedicated to helping Sailors, Marines, and their families in times of need. Our favorite bag is their Sailor Blend, but they have plenty of options to choose from. Check it out!
Good morning! (thanks for the mugs Ryan!)
8. Custom Insulated Mug ($9.98)
An insulated mug is a great gift, especially when partnered with a bag of Salty Sailor coffee 😉 Take it a step farther and get it engraved with the vessel name, or “Captains Mug” like what our dear friend Ryan did for Chris and I as a Bon Voyage gift! This is such a great gift, we cannot recommend it enough.
9. Ocean Safe Sunscreen ($7 – $28)
We should all strive to buy eco-friendly and reef safe products, even when not living on a sailboat but with so many options available it can be tough to decipher what is actually ocean safe and what is a blatant marketing cash-grab. Thankfully, we met Maddie, the owner of Live Sunny Suncare. Not only is Live Sunny a woman owned brand, but it is also an organic, superfood mineral sunscreen that is reef safe, breakout free, and SPF50+ built for adventure!
10. Stadium Seats ($20 – $100)
These are another item featured in our previous gift guide that is well deserving of the spotlight again. Stadium seats are great for outdoor lovers. We found ours in a “free” pile at the marina, and we have managed to long-term borrow my mothers-in-law’s from her boat because they significantly increase comfort in an uncushioned cockpit, dinghy, or on the beach! They are collapsible, making them a perfect “bench” seat to share or store in tight storage space.
12. Bean Bag Chair ($180)
Now this Bean Bag chair is probably one of my favorite gifts of all time! It may seem bulky and unnecessary, but I promise you it is worth the space it takes up just because of how comfortable it makes passages. We are able to sit comfortably behind the helm for hours or I can put it in our footwell and make a “nest” for my night watch. It’s waterproof, and every person who sits in it agrees they need one aboard their boat as well. Ours is a size medium (if you get the option), and we personally wouldn’t size up or down.
11. QEJA Socks ($19 – $29)
Okay, okay, I know: when you were a kid the last thing you wanted for Christmas was socks, right? Well, as an adult sometimes it’s the simple necessities that really make a difference. I have always had sensory issues when it comes to socks – the toe seams would make my skin crawl and if they wern’t tight enough my day would be ruined. Obviously I have lived to cope with these problems because I didn’t think there was anything better out there… until our friends Mitch and Quincey founded a sock company that emphasizes style, comfort and function. One sock for life! Although we are generally barefoot or in sandals lately, when we do wear socks they are always QEJA’s. Light weight, durable, breathable, and they have an invisible seam. So, if you know someone like me that is picky with socks or perhaps just wants to up their comfort and style game these are the socks you want to give. Use AVOCET15 at checkout for a discount!
12. Games ($10 – $30)
Games are a great gift for a family or for a solo traveler, being something that can provide entertainment and mental stimulation. Chris and I have many games aboard, from dominoes to cards, but if you follow us on Instagram you have probably seen us play this marble game a lot. The game goes by many names, but for the sake of this gift guide we will refer to it as it was introduced to us: Stans Marble Game. Even though these boards come from a man named Stan in Utah, I have found reproductions online for your purchasing pleasure. When not playing Stans Marble Game, Chris and I have become quite fond of Farkle, thanks to our pals Max and Karen in Mexico. I recently gifted Karen a travel sized Farkle set that is perfect for those impromptu game moments!
Check with your friends regarding their space constraints
13. Books ($10 – $30)
On the topic of reading, sailing-themed books make fantastic gifts for sailors. First and foremost, they provide a source of inspiration and knowledge. These books often contain personal anecdotes and stories of epic voyages, which resonate with the adventurous spirit of sailors. Lin and and her late husband Larry Pardey are renowned sailing legends that have published many books. Lin and I have had the pleasure of working together and last Christmas I asked her if she could send me a signed copy of what in my opinion is her best work, Bull Canyon. She did, and Chris was thrilled to have such an amazing book to add to our collection, signed by the author and legend herself, no less! Recently we picked up Lin’s latest book, Passages: Cape Horn and Beyond, and got to have her sign it in person at the Annapolis Boat Show – it was spectacular, and so is the book.
Ultimately, sailing books are more than just gifts; they’re a gateway to the world of sailing, fostering a deeper love for the sea and enhancing the recipient’s sailing experience. Check out this collection I put together for your consideration: Click Here to Browse the Library.
14. Subscription to Their Favorite Sailing Magazine
A subscription to a sailing magazine is a thoughtful and meaningful gift for the sailor in your life for many reasons. Firstly, it caters to the passion and interests of sailing enthusiasts, making it a highly personalized and relevant gift. Magazines offer a diverse range of in-depth content that goes beyond the surface of sailing, providing readers with valuable insights, adventure stories, and practical tips. They foster a sense of community among sailors, connecting them with like-minded individuals who share their love for the sea. Moreover, a subscription to a magazine such as Latitudes and Attitudes keeps recipients engaged and informed year-round, ensuring they stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the sailing world – plus you encourage reading and support the writers that contribute!
In essence, this gift not only celebrates the recipient’s passion but also offers a continuous source of inspiration, knowledge, and connection with the sailing lifestyle. You can actually subscribe using OUR CODE!
15. Sustainable Home Goods ($10 – $30)
Chris and I always manage to add sustainable home goods to our wish lists whether it’s for a birthday or holiday, but we don’t just love receiving them, we love gifting them! I recommend looking into any of these items: Earthling Co Hair Bars, Reusable Ziplock Bags, Compostable Toothbrushes, Reusable K Cups, Dr. Bronners, and Dishcloths
16. Massage Gun ($129)
After a long, long passage (or just existing as a human in general) I’m sure you can feel the knots in your shoulders pop up or maybe even a stiffness in your legs and back. This little beauty has been a life saver and increased the relaxation aboard Avocet. Now it’s easier than ever to get a massage! Seriously, this is a great gift for any sailor, athlete, or human you love. There are plenty to choose from, but here is what we have: CLICK HERE
17. A Sailing Course, Retreat, Charter or Excursion!
This holiday season, why not give the gift of adventure? A sailing course, charter, or excursion offers more than just a day on the water; it’s an experience that builds memories, skills, and a sense of freedom that stays long after the journey ends. Whether it’s learning the ropes in a sailing course (like by our pal Deb Marlor) or exploring new horizons on a charter (Like with our pals West Coast Multihulls) or savoring a sunset on an excursion (Like with our pals from Shearwater Sailing) these gifts are perfect for both seasoned sailors and those new to the world of the sea. Unlike material items, these experiences enrich the soul, foster a connection with nature, and create stories to share for years to come. Plus, they’re a thoughtful way to support a lifestyle of simplicity, adventure, and discovery—an ideal match for sailors and minimalists alike. Book one today, tell them the Avocet crew sent you 😉
18. GoPro … or a Point and Shoot Film Camera ($20 – $250)
A GoPro is the ultimate gift for the adventurer in your life, perfect for capturing those epic moments that words just can’t convey. Whether they’re scaling mountains, exploring underwater worlds, or navigating open seas, a GoPro will let them share their experiences in stunning detail—and who knows, it might just spark the idea to start a YouTube channel and share their journey with a larger audience, like some other adventurers we know…😉
For something a bit more budget-friendly (and nostalgic), consider a point-and-shoot film camera. Yes, film! This classic format is making a comeback, and I can personally vouch for how fun it is. There’s something magical about snapping photos on film, then rediscovering those memories weeks later when the prints/scans come back. It’s a perfect stocking stuffer that brings a blend of nostalgia and creativity, making it an ideal gift for the explorer with a love for capturing moments in a timeless, analog way.
19. Collapsible Hula Hoop ($55)
Okay this might seem silly, but after our trip to Mazatlán for the eclipse I rediscovered my love for hula hooping! It is so simple, so fun, and a great way to stay active… the best part about this hoop? It is collapsible! I am a big fan of this, I have even gifted two hoops to dear friends of mine and have continued to inspire the trend. Check out Hoopnotica!
20. Gift Cards
Stumped on the perfect gift? Gift cards take the guessing out of it. Sure, it’s a little less personable BUT it is practical – especially if it is a West Marine, Defender, or Chandlery-of-their-choice gift card!
The Cherry on Top of All Gift Recommendations (for Creators/Small Business Owners):
If you have a friend or family member that is a content creator or small business owner I highly recommend you give the gift of support all year long by sharing their work on your social media, engaging in the comment section of their posts, and recommending their website, page, or account to your other friends. Their success starts with you, and I promise the 5 seconds of effort it takes to share a post (like this blog) means the absolute world to content creators and small business owners. If you are looking to give a little extra ask if they have a Patreon to subscribe to! Example: For as little as $1/month you can support our creations, all you have to do is click HERE. Lastly, if you are planning on shopping through Amazon this season, CLICK HERE first so we get a little kick-back! It costs you $0!
This holiday season, make the sailors in your life feel extra special with a practical, thoughtful gift. Whether it’s something they can use on their next voyage or something they can appreciate daily, there’s no shortage of sailor-approved gifts to choose from as long as they come from the heart. No matter what you celebrate (or don’t) this season, we wish you all safety, love, and happiness. Did we forget something? Add your favorite gift in the comments below.
Fair winds,
Marissa (And Chris and Cleo)
Very thoughtful gifts! Luci lights are the best, and QEJA socks of course (turns out, as an adult, g good socks really are a fantastic gift)