What to Wear on a Boat Tour in Fort Lauderdale

Living in Fort Lauderdale and owning 954 Boat Tours, I’ve hosted just about every type of guest imaginable—from sun-chasing tourists to seasoned locals, families on vacation, to groups throwing unforgettable bachelorette boat parties. One of the most common questions I get before any trip is: “What should I wear on the boat?”

It’s a great question—and an important one. The right outfit can make the difference between being relaxed and sun-kissed… or sunburned and uncomfortable. Whether you’re heading out for one of our sunset boat rides, an exciting day of family fishing tours, or a party on the water, dressing appropriately will keep you cool, safe, and stylish.

Here’s my complete guide to what to wear (and what to avoid) for your perfect Fort Lauderdale boat day.

1. Start With the Basics: Comfort Over Everything

Let’s be clear—boat tours are all about comfort. You’re going to be sitting, walking around the deck, possibly getting a little wet, and spending a lot of time in the sun. Choose lightweight, breathable clothes that move with you and dry quickly.

For men and women alike, I recommend:

• Quick-dry shorts or swim trunks

• Moisture-wicking tops or loose cotton shirts

• Swimwear underneath your clothes (if you plan to swim or wade)

• Light cover-up or long-sleeve shirt for sun protection

If you’re heading out on family fishing tours, keep in mind you might be handling bait or fish. That means clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty are a smart choice. On the flip side, if you're planning bachelorette boat parties, feel free to rock your matching swimsuits or party outfits—but bring something to throw on in case the breeze picks up.

2. Think Layers—Florida Style

You might think, “It’s hot in South Florida—why would I need layers?” But once we get cruising on the open water, the wind can make things feel cooler than expected, especially during early morning trips or sunset boat rides.

Here are a few versatile layers I recommend:

• A lightweight hoodie or windbreaker: Keeps you warm during breezy sections or in case of a quick rain shower.

• Sarong, kimono, or beach wrap: Great for covering up while still feeling stylish.

• UV-protective long sleeves: Look for UPF-rated fabric that protects your skin without overheating you.

For sunset boat rides, when the temperature drops slightly as the sun goes down, having that extra layer makes it easy to stay cozy while you soak in the views.

3. Footwear: Keep It Simple

On my tours, you can go barefoot if you want—it’s actually one of the most comfortable ways to move around the deck. That said, the right footwear can make boarding easier and keep you from slipping.

Best options for boat footwear:

• Non-slip sandals or boat shoes

• Water shoes

• Bare feet (onboard only)

Avoid:

• High heels (even for bachelorette boat parties, trust me!)

• Slippery flip-flops

• Anything you’d be afraid to get wet

We’ve seen many guests lose a flip-flop to the sea breeze—and nobody wants to spend their tour fishing for shoes.

4. Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable

Florida sunshine is no joke. One of the biggest reasons guests feel uncomfortable on a boat is simple: too much sun exposure without proper protection.

Here’s what to bring—and wear—for maximum sun safety:

• Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap (preferably with a strap)

• Polarized sunglasses: These reduce glare off the water and protect your eyes.

• Reef-safe sunscreen: Apply before boarding and reapply often. We keep some onboard, but it’s always smart to bring your favorite brand.

• UPF-rated clothing: Many rash guards, long-sleeve tops, and hats now come with built-in UV protection.

Whether you’re chilling on a sunset boat ride, casting lines on our family fishing tours, or dancing at bachelorette boat parties, a little shade and sunscreen go a long way.

5. What to Wear Based on Your Tour Type

Not all boat tours are created equal—so here’s a breakdown of what to wear depending on what type of adventure you’re booking with us.

Bachelorette Boat Parties

• Matching swimsuits or coordinated outfits are popular

• Flowy beach cover-ups or cute sundresses

• Sunglasses, sun hats, and light jewelry (but skip the valuable stuff)

• Bring a fun towel or floatie for photo ops

These parties are all about fun, style, and freedom—so wear something you feel confident and cool in. Just remember that water and wind are part of the experience, so keep it practical, too.

Family Fishing Tours

• Quick-dry shorts and UV-protective shirts

• Water shoes or sneakers with grip

• Hats with neck flaps or sun guards for kids

• Lightweight rain jacket (just in case)

Comfort and mobility are key here. Kids and adults alike will be moving around the boat, handling fishing gear, and sitting in the sun. Dress for utility without sacrificing fun.

Sunset Boat Rides

• Relaxed evening attire (think casual and classy)

• A lightweight cardigan or shawl

• Neutral tones and flowy outfits for romantic vibes

• Comfortable sandals or bare feet

Sunset trips are smooth and scenic—perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy moments and unwinding after a long day.

6. Accessory Tips That Make a Big Difference

Accessories might not seem like a big deal—but a few smart choices can make your trip more enjoyable.

• Dry bags: Keep phones, wallets, and electronics safe from splashes.

• Hair ties and clips: Wind + water = hair everywhere.

• Reef-safe lip balm with SPF: Lips burn faster than you think.

• Cooling towel: Soak it, wring it out, and wrap it around your neck for instant relief.

And here’s a bonus tip: If you're heading out on a special occasion—like bachelorette boat parties—ask me in advance. We often help decorate the boat and coordinate photo-ready moments, so feel free to match your outfit to the theme!

7. What Not to Wear

Sometimes the best outfit is the one that doesn’t make things harder. Here’s what I suggest you skip:

• Heavy denim or cotton: Stays wet and uncomfortable for hours.

• Overly fancy clothing: The boat is for fun, not fashion week.

• Dangling jewelry: Easy to lose and tough to recover.

• Dark colors: They attract more heat and make you feel warmer.

The goal is to blend function with fun. You don’t want to spend your trip adjusting your outfit, overheating, or wishing you had packed an extra layer.

Final Thoughts: Confidence, Comfort, and a Good Time

The best outfit for a boat tour in Fort Lauderdale is the one that lets you be free—free to move, dance, fish, swim, and soak in the beauty of the ocean without distractions.

At 954 Boat Tours, we’ve got you covered with everything from shaded seating and coolers to floaties and fun playlists. But showing up dressed for the day is the first step toward making unforgettable memories—whether you're enjoying a quiet sunset boat ride, casting a line on family fishing tours, or popping champagne on bachelorette boat parties.

Ready to dress the part and enjoy the ride?

Book your Fort Lauderdale boat tour today at https://www.954boattours.com/ and let’s make sure you look good, feel great, and sail comfortably.