DIY boating gifts most appeal to those boaters who live, eat and breath boating. These boaters love all aspects of being a boat owner - from the care and maintenance of their boat to the pleasures a day on the water provides. These boaters are breed all their own, so buying boating gifts for them may at first seem daunting. But, if you give them a gift that allows them to express their love of boating, even while not on the water, they will thank you again and again.
1. Line Splicing
Although boaters can buy dock and anchor lines that are already spliced at one end, they are more expensive than buying line and splicing it on your own. Marlinespike seamanship is the tradition of working with line for boats and includes splicing and knot tying. Giving the gift of instruction in line splicing will save money, but will also fulfill a true boater's desire for all things related to the sea by giving them a hobby within a hobby. Choose from either an instructional book, such as The Splicing Handbook, or by DVDs available through quality marine supply stores.2. Line Splicing Kit
Some essential equipment is required to splice line which you can buy in a line splicing kit such as Sampson's Splicing Kit. With a kit, boaters will have the essentials to splice any type of line including double braid nylon.3. Knot Tying Instruction or Books
There are literally hundreds of knots that mariners have used throughout history that are still applicable today for practical uses as well as decorative uses aboard boats. Consider the gift of learning the art of knot tying, either in book form or DVD. The advantage of a DVD is the visual instruction, however a book is handy reference anywhere or at anytime.4. Navigation
Navigation instruction abounds in the marine world. Boaters can learn many different aspects of navigation including the rule of the sea, or the Coast Guard Navigation Rules, how to navigate using electronics, traditional chart navigation and plotting and much, much more. Since navigation is both interesting, integral to boating and necessary for safety, any navigation instruction will be appreciated and reap dividends for the boater in your life.5. Boating Course or Instruction
Why not give the gift of a boating course or even a private boating instructor? With today's advancements in online learning, boaters can learn via the internet or in a traditional classroom setting through organizations such as the Coast Guard Auxiliary. By hiring a private instructor with marine knowledge and experience, boaters will have the advantage of instruction tailored to the areas they want or need most.
This is only a few of the many ideas for gift giving for DIY boaters or boaters who want to grow in their knowledge of boating. Each item mentioned here is sure to please any boater with a passion for the sea. Got a good gift giving idea? Share it below.