What Tools Should I Keep On My Boat?
Recently, I was asked by a client what type of tools he should carry with him for a day on the water. I thought this was a great question and started to think about the best answer I could provide to my client. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that although the question is relatively simple, the answer is not.
At first, I assumed there would be a set of agreed-upon “basics” that all boaters should carry, and that I could provide my client with this simple list as an answer. But as I spoke to some fellow experienced boaters, it seemed that each of us had a different idea of what the “basics” would include. After additional thought and conversation, it seemed like the correct response would depend on multiple factors. I tried to generalize the needs and place them into three categories.
It is important to remember that these are based on those with beginner through intermediate boating experience. Additionally, these recommendations assume the boater has some basic mechanical knowledge and a basic understanding of their vessel systems, such as but not limited to, electrical, fuel, and plumbing.
The Bronze Level recommendations are based on the following criteria; this boater has a 20’ – 25’ single-engine boat, most likely a deck boat, bow rider, or possibly a small cuddy cabin. The boat is generally used for days trips within an hour or so of their home port. The boat is always used in the bay and or local rivers.
The Bronze Level boater should have the below tools handy onboard their vessel:
Small, medium and large slot head screwdrivers
Small, medium and large Phillips head screwdrivers
Medium size standard pliers
Medium size cutting pliers
Medium size vice grips
Small ball-peen hammer
Knife or razor knife/box cutter
Flashlight
Electrical & Duct Tape
Basic multi meter or 12V test light
Extra fuses and wire connectors
Two 6” sections of marine-grade electrical wire of appropriate diameter
Various size wire ties
WD-40 or similar lubricant
The Silver Level recommendations are based on the following criteria; this boater operates a 22’ – 26’ foot vessel, probably single-engine but possibly twin-engine. This boat is typically operated in the bay and rivers, but may also be used for near-shore fishing or cruising to destinations several hours away. This vessel could be a larger bowrider or a mid-size cuddy cabin or an express cruiser. If this boat has the accommodations, it may also be used for an overnight destination stay.
The Silver Level boater should have the below tools handy onboard their vessel:
All Bronze Level Tools
Basic socket and wrench set including standard and metric sizes
Medium size channel locks
Various size hose clamps
A small assortment of stainless fasteners
Sandpaper
The Gold Level recommendations are based on the following criteria; this boater operates a 24’ – 30’ vessel, probably a larger center console, cuddy cabin, or express cruiser, and may have one, two, or three engines. Vessels like this are often used at greater distances from home and may be away from their home port for several days. The operator and crew may “live aboard” for that period of time. If this is a center console or other fishing-style vessel, it may venture 30 or more miles from shore on a frequent basis.
The Gold Level boater should have the below tools handy onboard their vessel:
All Silver and Bronze Level Tools
Additional sockets, wrenches, and drivers specific to your vessel
Two 4’ lengths of marine-grade electrical wire of appropriate diameter. One section red and one black
Spare parts such as fuel filters, prop hubs, spark plugs, cotter pins, etc. that are specific to your vessel
Additional stainless fasteners/vessel specific hardware
2 part epoxy
Marine-grade sealant
A small assortment of files
Hack saw or at the minimum a hacksaw blade
If you’re in an auxiliary powered sailing vessel, you would expand your tool list to include hardware and tools to service the standing and running gear. Also, keep in mind that there could be tools that are specifically needed for certain engines or other systems on your boat.
Proper maintenance and a thorough pre-trip inspection can head off many problems that could arise once you leave the dock. Many times when I lend a hand to a fellow boater, I will hear statements about how this or that has been acting up, or how they had been meaning to take care of an ongoing problem. But, it’s important to know that not all problems can be detected before they become a system failure, and by having the ability to perform some repairs on the water, you will surely save the day more than once.
I hope you find this helpful and feel free to reach out to us regarding any specific questions or if you are interested in any of the services we provide.
Fair winds and calm seas,
Capt. Ed