What's better than a day on the water? Staying out there for the night. Boat camping — sometimes called "hook and cook" cruising or gunkholing — combines the freedom of boating with the simplicity of camping. If you haven't tried it, you're missing one of the best experiences recreational boating has to offer. Here's how to get started.
What Kind of Boat Do You Need?
Almost any boat can be used for camping, but some are better suited than others. Cuddy cabins, center consoles with a forward berth, pontoon boats with a bimini top, and of course traditional cabin cruisers all work well. Even open boats can work with a quality cockpit tent or bivy setup. The key is shelter — from rain, dew, bugs, and sun in the morning.
Find Your Spot
The best boat camping spots are calm, protected anchorages away from boat traffic — coves, creeks, and back bays are ideal. Use your chartplotter or apps like Navionics or Active Captain to scout anchorages in advance. Look for good holding ground (sand or mud), reasonable depth, and some wind protection. Check local regulations — some areas have anchoring restrictions or require permits for overnight stays.
Anchor Setup for Overnight
An overnight anchorage demands more attention than a lunch hook. Use a longer scope (7:1 or more), set your anchor alarm on the chartplotter, and consider a second anchor in tight quarters or if wind direction is expected to shift. Scope out nearby hazards before dark — they're a lot harder to spot at 2am.
Sleeping Comfortably
Boat cabins can get stuffy in warm weather and surprisingly cold on cool nights. A 12V fan makes a huge difference in summer. Layer your sleeping setup — a sleeping bag liner, a lightweight bag, and a fleece blanket cover most conditions. An eye mask and earplugs help block early morning light and the sounds of other boats. And yes, the gentle rocking really does help you sleep.
Food and Cooking
Keep meals simple — grilling over a small propane grill mounted to the rail, one-pot meals on a butane camp stove, or just bringing prepared food. A quality 12V cooler or small marine icebox keeps drinks and perishables fresh overnight without burning through ice. Don't forget coffee — mornings on the water demand it.
Leave No Trace on the Water
Pack out everything you pack in. Gray water (dishwater, etc.) should be disposed of responsibly — check local regulations. Never dump garbage overboard. Use a portable toilet or pump-out if your boat has a head. The pristine anchorage you're enjoying exists because others treated it well — return the favor.
What to Pack
Beyond your normal day-trip gear, add these for an overnight:
- Extra anchor and line
- Sleeping bags or bedding
- 12V fan or ventilation
- Bug screen or mosquito netting
- Portable camp stove and cookware
- Headlamps and extra batteries
- Dry bags for electronics and valuables
- Sunscreen, after-sun, and bug spray
- Portable power bank or shore power if available
Your first night anchored out — stars overhead, water lapping the hull, zero cell signal — is genuinely unforgettable. Give it a try. The worst that happens is you decide dockside marina dining is more your style. But we bet you'll be hooked. ⭐🚤