When it comes to making the most of your time on the water, having the right cooler can make all the difference. Whether you’re headed out for a day of fishing, cruising with friends, or enjoying a beach picnic, the perfect cooler will keep your food and drinks fresh and your spirits high. So, how do you choose the best cooler for your boat? Let’s dive in!

Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing A Cooler

Consider Your Needs: Think about what you’ll be storing. Are you packing drinks for a party, or are you looking to keep your catch fresh? Your cooler choice should match your adventure plans.

Size Matters: Think about how much space you have on your boat. A compact cooler might be ideal for fishing trips, while a larger one could be perfect for family outings. Don’t forget to factor in weight too—portability is key when it comes to boating.

Insulation Quality: Look for coolers with thick insulation that promises long-lasting cold retention. The last thing you want is warm sodas or beers on a hot day!

Durability and Design: Choose a cooler that can withstand the elements and the strong vibrations on the boat produced by boat engines such as Mercury outboard motors. UV protection, rugged materials, and features like non-slip feet are essential for a nautical environment.

Additional Features: From built-in cup holders to tie-down points, features can enhance your experience. Consider a model with a drainage plug for easy cleaning after your adventures.

Budget: Set a budget that fits your needs. There are plenty of options out there, from affordable choices to high-end models—find what works for your wallet without compromising on quality.

Different Types of Boat Coolers

Standard Marine Coolers: These coolers are tough and built to handle the marine environment. They’re sturdy enough to sit on, plus they keep ice frozen for a long day out. They might cost a bit more than some other coolers, but they’re a solid pick for any kind of boating. Just keep in mind that they can be pretty big and tricky to store.

Wheeled Coolers: These are a great option for hauling heavy loads down the dock and if you need to hike from your Stacer boat to your car, but they have some downsides. The wheels and additional handles require moulded-in recess in the cooler, which reduces their interior capacity. Like standard marine coolers, they can be difficult to stow. And if left sitting unsecured on a deck, they may start rolling around when strong waves rock the boat.

Soft-Sided Coolers: When it comes to finding a cooler that can be stowed in odd-shaped compartments or tight areas, soft-sided coolers are the best choice. These are the only types of coolers that can be squished, bent, and squeezed into whatever shape is necessary. However, many of these types don’t hold ice as well as rigid coolers, they can’t serve as seating, most don’t have drains, and they can be more difficult to clean than rigid coolers. Also, anglers will not want to haul the catch of the day around in a soft-sided cooler because fish spines and teeth can puncture the interior lining.

Styrofoam Coolers: Styrofoam coolers are super cheap, but they really aren’t the best choice to use during long boat trips. They can crack and break pretty easily, and their lightweight tops can be blown off in the wind. Plus, they don’t keep ice cold for very long. That said, they’re great for hauling drinks or food back and forth between shore and the boat. A lot of anglers like to keep a small foam cooler or two around to send home fresh fish with friends after a good day on the water.

Heavy-duty Coolers: These have become very popular in recent years, and it’s no wonder why: they can hold ice for days on end, they’re incredibly big and rugged and are made in hardware that will last for years on end. Many of these coolers have non-slip feet that won’t slide on any type of surface. Many also contain air- and water-tight thick rubber seals. Because of these features, they’re also quite expensive, bulky, and heavy, and have much less interior volume for their size than standard marine coolers because the insulation is so much thicker than normal.

Make your boat outings memorable by selecting a cooler that meets all your needs. With the right cooler onboard, you’ll be ready for anything the day brings!