Heat15 gadgets sailors need in summer

Leonie Meyer

 · 24.06.2026

Here are 15 gadgets designed to make your daily life on board easier in hot weather.
Photo: Getty Images; Artur Debat

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Germany is expecting a heatwave this week: to ensure you’re well equipped both on board and in port, we’re showcasing 15 gadgets for sailors.​

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The High-pressure system with an omega-shaped pattern is also posing challenges for sailors this week. To stay cool and protected nonetheless, the right kit is essential. Portable air conditioners and flexible clip-on fans, for example, offer quick relief from the heat during those sweltering moments on board. On the open sea, where the sun beats down relentlessly, UV-protective sun hats and long-sleeved tops offer effective protection against harmful rays. The following 15 products help sailors cope better with the summer heat.


Gadgets to keep you cool on board

Air conditioning

Air conditioningPhoto: HerstellerAir conditioning

​The BougeRV 2026 portable air conditioner is ideal for summer on board. With a cooling capacity of 3500 BTU, it is designed to cool the air by up to 10 °C in just ten minutes. The air conditioner is only compatible with 100 V–240 V AC power sources. Thanks to its eco-friendly cooling system using R290 refrigerant, this unit is a sustainable and future-proof choice for environmentally conscious outdoor enthusiasts. The smart control via the BougeRV app offers full control over temperature and operating modes, even from a distance of up to ten metres. This means the unit can be conveniently controlled from the harbour or from a dinghy. With five modes, the air conditioning unit offers versatile use and is, for example, available here.

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Fan for mounting

Clip-on fanPhoto: HerstellerClip-on fan

​On board a boat, the little Clip-on fan with refreshing mist function The perfect way to cool down on hot summer’s days. Equipped with a handy water mist bottle, it dispenses a pleasant, cool mist of water thanks to the long-press spray button. You can choose from four settings: from a gentle breeze to a powerful cooling mode. The built-in display shows the charge level. The Type-C charging port provides up to ten hours of running time, depending on the selected speed. Thanks to its compact size and clip-on design, the fan can be easily attached in various locations, whether below deck or in the cockpit. The fan rotates 360° horizontally and 120° vertically to keep you cool on board.


Neck fan

Neck fanPhoto: HerstellerNeck fan

​Keeping a cool head: The Neck fan is regarded as the ultimate gadget, offering powerful 360° air circulation via 54 air vents. Thanks to an improved motor and a redesigned ventilation slot, it ensures efficient cooling and heat dissipation. The bladeless fan features three quiet speed settings and a noise-reduction function. Weighing just 290 grams and featuring a flexible silicone design, the fan can be easily worn around the neck on board and adjusted to any desired angle. Equipped with a long-lasting 6000mAh battery and a USB-C charging port, it is compatible with various devices and perfect for long days in the sun on a boat >> available here.


Water hammock

Water hammockPhoto: HerstellerWater hammock

​The Water hammock Measuring 178 x 94 cm, it’s a must-have for relaxing summer days on the water. With a maximum load capacity of 100 kilograms, it offers a secure platform. The Mesh Lounge features two air chambers and an integrated cushion, so you can lie comfortably with half your body in the water and enjoy the sun.


Cooling mat for pets and people

Cooling matPhoto: HerstellerCooling mat

​The self-cooling dog mat is the ideal summer gadget for boating adventures with your four-legged friends. Thanks to its technology, it requires neither water, electricity nor a fridge. A non-toxic gel activates on contact with the body and recharges itself automatically. This means it may also be suitable for people. Versatile in use, the mat provides reliable protection against overheating. The water-repellent and robust surface is easy to clean >> e.g. available here.


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Clothing protects against UV radiation

Coneflower

ConeflowerPhoto: HerstellerConeflower

This sun hat is the perfect summer accessory for both men and women. Made from 100% nylon, it stands out thanks to its lightweight, moisture-wicking and breathable fabric. The adjustable drawstring at the back of the head flexibly adapts to head circumferences between 54 and 58.5 cm, whilst the chin strap ensures a secure fit even in windy conditions. With UPF 50+ sun protection and a 3.54-inch-wide brim, this hat effectively protects the face and neck from harmful UV rays. The buttons on the sides allow you to transform the hat into a stylish cowboy hat.


Long-sleeved T-shirt with UV protection for men and women

Men's long-sleeved T-shirt with UV protection
Photo: Hersteller

​On hot days out on the boat, UV shirts are the best choice for effectively protecting your skin. The Men's T-shirt with UPF 50+ offers first-class sun protection and also features a breathable, lightweight polyester fabric that ensures maximum comfort. Thanks to its quick-drying and moisture-wicking properties, your skin stays dry and cool even during intense activities. The comfortable fit, with a crew neck and flatlock seams, allows for full freedom of movement, making it ideal for sailing. The women’s shirt also impresses with UPF 50+ protection and a quick-drying, stretchy fabric that ensures both comfort and freedom of movement. Featuring raglan sleeves and flatlock seams, it moulds perfectly to the body’s contours whilst remaining easy to care for.


How to keep the galley cool

Cool box

Cool boxPhoto: HerstellerCool box

Storing food and drink in a cool place: The ME27 Cool Box has a capacity of 26 litres. Thanks to its dual-voltage technology, the cool box can be powered either via the vehicle’s 12V socket or from a 230V mains socket on board. ECO mode enables virtually silent and energy-efficient operation. The sturdy carrying handle and the integrated cable compartment are designed to ensure ease of use.


Ice cube maker

Ice cube makerPhoto: HerstellerIce cube maker

​Cool drinks: The portable ice cube maker With its compact design, it fits perfectly into the galley. This efficient machine produces nine ice cubes in just six to eight minutes and can make up to twelve kilograms of ice in 24 hours, in a choice of two sizes. It is very user-friendly and requires just a few simple steps: fill with water, switch on and select the desired ice cube size. Handy indicator lights show when the water level is low or the ice basket is full. The machine also has a built-in self-cleaning function.


Make your own ice cream on board

Ice mouldsPhoto: HerstellerIce moulds

​The Lékué ice cream moulds Measuring 16.5 x 7.5 x 2.6 cm, they are compact and practical for use in the small fridge or freezer of any galley. Made from high-quality silicone that is free from bisphenol A (BPA), they guarantee safe and healthy ice-making. Their sturdy design allows for horizontal storage, making them a breeze to fill and easy to remove. This is a boon for sailors of all ages!


Stainless steel thermos flask

Thermos flasksPhoto: HerstellerThermos flasks

​The Stainless steel thermos flask Keeps drinks at a constant temperature for over 13 hours. The anti-leak guarantee ensures that no liquids leak out. Cleaning the flask is straightforward thanks to the sustainable natural-bristle brush supplied and the fact that it is dishwasher-safe. A hard-wearing jute bag and a practical trekking carabiner ensure safe transport. The carabiner also makes it easy to attach the flask on board.


The best ways to provide shade

Sunshade for the cockpit

Sunshade for the cockpitPhoto: HerstellerSunshade for the cockpit

​The SunnyJoy Parasol offers protection against UV radiation with a UPF rating of 50+. It also features a robust design and a wind-resistant stand. With the included cover and integrated ground anchor, the parasol is easy to transport – for example, when heading to the beach in a dinghy – and can be securely fixed in place. Its 180 cm diameter and tilt function allow for flexible, customisable shade on board.


Sunshades for setting up

SunshadePhoto: HerstellerSunshade

​The HAIKUS PES Sun Sail Blocks 98% of harmful UV rays and, thanks to its double PU coating, offers reliable protection against water. It is made from 160 g/sq m polyester fabric, which is known for its tensile strength and resistance to ageing, corrosion and radiation. The corners are reinforced with stainless steel rings to enhance stability and durability. This allows the sun sail to be flexibly positioned on the foredeck, the sides or at the stern.


Reflective film

Reflective filmPhoto: HerstellerReflective film

​Dimmed: The Film made from PETP material Provides light reflection, UV resistance and thermal regulation, and protects against excessive heat. Measuring 210 x 160 cm, the film can be cut to size to suit the requirements on the yacht.


What’s your must-have item for summer on board? Let us know in the comments!

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Leonie Meyer

Leonie Meyer

Editor News & Panorama

Leonie Meyer was born in Detmold in 1997. The passion for boating runs in her family: every year they spend their summer holidays in Croatia with their boat. Even as a child, she leafed through her father's BOOTE magazine.

After training as a design assistant at school, she moved to Magdeburg to study International Journalism. During this time, she completed an internship abroad at a German daily newspaper in Greece and an internship at BOOTE magazine. After graduating with a BA (2020), Leonie did a graduate internship in Mallorca. Her last stop was a cross-media traineeship at a daily newspaper in OWL. Leonie Meyer has been working as an editor in the watersports digital editorial team since 2023 and turned her passion into a career.

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