How to Stay Comfortable on a Boat Tour

As the owner of 954 Boat Tours here in Fort Lauderdale, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding thousands of people out on the water—many for the very first time. Whether it’s a group celebrating with bachelorette boat parties, families bonding over their first catch during family fishing tours, or couples enjoying our famous sunset boat rides, one thing remains constant: everyone wants to be comfortable.

Spending a few hours (or an entire day) out on the water should feel like a vacation from reality. But the sun, salt, wind, and motion can sneak up on you if you’re not prepared. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you stay relaxed, happy, and comfortable from the first splash to the final anchor.

No matter what kind of experience you’re planning—laid-back cruise, fishing trip, or high-energy celebration—these simple tips will keep you feeling great all day long.

1. Dress for the Conditions, Not the Photos

Look, I get it—everyone wants to look good on their boat day, especially during bachelorette boat parties or if you’re snapping pics on a romantic sunset boat ride. But comfort should always come first. The ocean breeze, direct sunlight, and changing temps can make fashion decisions tricky if you’re not thinking ahead.

Here’s what I recommend:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing: Think dry-fit shirts, swimwear, or anything moisture-wicking.

• Layers: Bring a light long-sleeve shirt or cover-up. Even on hot days, the wind can feel chilly—especially in the evening.

• Non-slip shoes or bare feet: Decks can get slippery. Avoid flip-flops unless you’re barefoot on board (which we often recommend).

• Sun protection: Hats with a strap, polarized sunglasses, and UPF-rated clothing make a big difference.

For family fishing tours, this is especially important for kids. A sunburned or chilly child can turn a dream trip into a short one—so pack those extra layers and hats.

2. Pack Smart—Less is More

The boat has everything you need, but a few thoughtful additions can keep you more comfortable without weighing you down. Here’s my personal list of must-haves for every guest:

• Sunscreen (reef-safe): Apply before you board and reapply every 1–2 hours. We have some onboard, but bringing your preferred kind is a plus.

• Towels: Even if you’re not swimming, a towel can act as a pillow, cover-up, or even shield from the sun.

• Reusable water bottle: Hydration is key, especially under the sun. We provide water on all tours, but bringing your own helps reduce plastic waste.

• Snacks: Granola bars, fruit, or trail mix go a long way, especially for longer family fishing tours or party trips.

• Motion sickness tablets: If you're even slightly prone to seasickness, don’t take the risk—prevention is much easier than recovery.

For bachelorette boat parties, many groups also bring cooler bags with light refreshments, music playlists, and themed decorations. I help you set it all up, but keeping it simple ensures you can actually enjoy the experience without managing too much stuff.

3. Sun and Heat Management is Everything

Most discomfort on the water comes from not preparing for the sun. We love the sunshine here in Fort Lauderdale—but it can be intense. Whether you're lounging during sunset boat rides or celebrating under the midday rays, taking precautions is key to staying comfortable.

• Time your trip wisely: Morning and evening tours tend to be cooler, with calmer seas and softer sunlight. Perfect for sunset boat rides or early family fishing tours.

• Hydrate like crazy: Sun and salt dehydrate you faster than you realize. Drink water consistently, not just when you’re thirsty.

• Stay shaded: My boat has shaded areas to take breaks from the sun. Rotating between sun and shade throughout the day helps prevent overheating.

• Avoid alcohol overload: While a few drinks are part of the fun—especially during bachelorette boat parties—remember that alcohol and sun don’t mix well if you’re not also hydrating and eating.

  
  

4. Communicate With Your Captain

One of the perks of booking with a small, local operator like 954 Boat Tours is the personalized service. If something’s off—too hot, too windy, seas a little rough—just let me know. I can adjust the speed, change course, find a calmer area, or shift into the shade.

Comfort is my priority. Whether we’re out for a fishing charter or gliding through the Intracoastal on a sunset boat ride, every tour is flexible. Want a swimming break? Need to head back early? No problem. The beauty of a private boat tour is that it works around you.

5. Know the Motion: How to Beat Seasickness

Seasickness is no joke—and it can sneak up on even experienced boaters. If you’ve never been on a boat before (or it’s been a while), here’s how to avoid the dreaded queasy feeling:

• Take preventative medicine: Dramamine, Bonine, or ginger tablets about 30 minutes before departure work wonders.

• Eat light beforehand: Avoid greasy or overly filling meals.

• Stay above deck: Fresh air and keeping your eyes on the horizon help your body stabilize.

• Avoid phones/screens: Reading or staring down can throw off your balance. Focus outward and stay upright.

  
  

On family fishing tours, I always check in with guests regularly—especially kids or older folks. And for party trips, I gently remind guests to pace themselves if the water’s choppy that day. Prevention is key to enjoying the full ride.

6. Comfort for Kids, Parents, and Partygoers

Different groups have different comfort needs, and I’ve learned to prepare for all of them.

• Families: Kids need sunscreen reapplication reminders, light snacks, and extra hydration. We keep things educational and interactive on family fishing tours, but I always keep the pace gentle and the environment safe.

• Couples: On sunset boat rides, comfort means coziness. I’ll provide soft music, calm cruising routes, and the perfect photo-op spots as the sun dips into the water.

• Bachelorette Groups: For bachelorette boat parties, comfort often means flow—an upbeat but chill environment where everyone can lounge, dance, sip, or swim as they please. I offer floaties, playlists, and a flexible itinerary to keep things smooth and celebratory.

  
  

No matter the group, I prepare the boat with your comfort in mind—clean seating, cold drinks, and plenty of space to move, dance, relax, or fish.

7. Don’t Forget the Wind (and Hair)

If you’ve never been on a boat, you might not realize how strong the wind can be once we pick up speed. It’s refreshing—but also a little wild, especially for your hair or loose items.

• Hair ties or hats with straps: Keep your hair in check and avoid chasing lost caps overboard.

• Clip-on sunglasses: If you’re worried about losing them, consider sunglasses with straps.

• Secure loose items: Bags, towels, and phones should be stowed or weighted down when the boat’s moving.

We’ve retrieved our fair share of phones and hats from the water—though I try to avoid the need for hero dives by offering dry storage areas onboard.

8. Stay Chill—Mentally and Physically

Comfort is more than just physical. The vibe of the day, the ease of the tour, and how you feel on the water matters. That’s why I make each trip feel like a retreat—not a rush.

You don’t need to know how to boat or fish. You don’t need to plan everything. I’m here to handle the route, the gear, the safety, and the timing. You just show up, bring your people, and enjoy the experience.

By the end of the tour—whether it was a quiet sunset boat ride, a rowdy bachelorette boat party, or an educational family fishing tour—you’ll walk away feeling refreshed, not worn out.

Final Thoughts: Comfort Is Key to a Perfect Boat Day

Whether you’re a local or visiting Fort Lauderdale for the first time, a boat tour should be one of the highlights of your trip—not something that leaves you sunburned, seasick, or stressed out.

With the right prep, the right gear, and the right guide (that’s me), you can cruise, fish, float, dance, or relax in total comfort.

Bachelorette boat parties, family fishing tours, sunset boat rides—they all become magical when you feel great the whole way through.

Book your customized, comfortable, and unforgettable boat tour adventure now at https://www.954boattours.com/

Let’s set sail—and keep it chill.