Need some nautical Father’s Day ideas for the dad who loves to boat or go fishing?
This Father’s Day, do something a little more thoughtful and create boating memories that will last a lifetime! Rather than a gift, show dad how much you care by spending quality time with him. We all know that’s what he really wants!
Need some ideas? Check out these eight nautical adventures.
1. Snorkel For Lost Treasure at Your Home Lake
Tales of lost treasures and sunken ships are the theme of this Father’s Day activity!
Have you ever wondered if those tales and local legends were true? Now is your time to find out! Grab your snorkel mask and hit the lake with your pops.
The real treasure will be spending time together; anything else you find is just a bonus!
2. Have a Shoreline Lunch
After a morning of fishing off the boat, find a scenic spot along the shore to set up shop and cook your catch of the day! It is guaranteed to be the freshest fish you’ll ever taste.
You’ll be in Dad’s good books until one of your siblings thinks of something better! If you’re new at preparing and filleting fish, check out this quick and easy video.
Don’t forget to pack the ultimate lures that will have you reeling up the big one on your fishing adventure. Our top picks are any of the Rapala Lure Series! There’s a lure for every type of situation and fish.
3. Cook Steak on the Boat
Are you thinking of taking Dad on a boat trip? Don’t forget to pack the portable BBQ so you can grill up some steaks!
We have you covered for the best steak marinade! Mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic together. Spread it on your steak, put it in a ziplock bag, and let it marinate in a cooler for later.
We all know the way to Dad’s heart is through his stomach, and what better place to grill than on the water?
4. Go Canyoning
If you’ve never heard of canyoning before, you’re not alone. This new water sport combines a variety of different activities into one.
It’s a mix of caving, hiking, climbing, cliff diving, whitewater swimming, and descending down waterfalls and steep-walled gorges. This is the perfect way to push the whole family’s limits as you share a great day outdoors!
The best spots to go canyoning can be reached by boat, and then you can hike up a trail to the destination. This is an adventure you won’t want to skip!
Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, each course is rated at a different skill level.
5. Take a Brunch Cruise
Take your brunching up a notch by enjoying it on a boat cruise! Dad will love the family time and the tasty treats onboard.
Sit back and relax as the crew takes care of the food and drinks and the captain takes care of the direction. This a chance for you and your family to enjoy a day on the boat without any of the responsibility. You can cruise on your home lake as you sit on the top deck with Dad!
Take in the vibrant harbourfront and stunning views of the skyline from your table as you sip on orange juice and fill up on pastries.
6. Listen to a Concert at a Marina
For a fun and different experience while you’re cruising around on the boat this Father’s Day, try this out! Check to see if your town or city has a marina located next to a facility that offers concerts.
Live music is always a fun activity to enjoy with family, but when it’s outside by the water, it makes the experience even more epic!
7. Take a Helicopter Tour Above the Water
This could arguably be the most epic memory to share with Dad this Father’s Day!
Instead of gliding over the lake by boat, soar over your favourite lakes and rivers from the comfort of a helicopter! You will have a whole new appreciation for the vastness of the lake you boat on after this.
This exhilarating experience will be one for the books. Whether you live in Canada or Dad lives in the U.S., there are plenty of opportunities to try this awesome adventure.
8. Take a Whitewater Rafting Tour
Whitewater rafting is of the most intense and fun nautical adventures and bonding experiences for you and your dad to try out together! Whether you’re a whitewater rafting enthusiast or a first-timer, you’ll be reminiscing on these guided trips for years to come.
You can make it an afternoon trip or an overnight getaway (if you’re feeling more adventurous).
Keep Dad Safe On Nautical Adventures With Boater Education
All dad really wants for Father’s Day is to spend some quality time with you. If you’re wondering what to do for dad this Father’s Day, try these outdoor boating activities to make memories that will last a lifetime.
What else will Dad love? Staying safe when on a boat!
Whether your dad drives the boat or is simply a passenger on these nautical adventures, giving him a boating safety course before your fun-filled activities helps him stay safe on the water. For dads and boaters in the U.S., choose the course that applies to your state. For adventures with Dad in Canada, get started with our Canada courses!
Originally published in June 2019. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy September 18, 2024.
