You’ve booked your electric boat rental at Newport Fun Tours. The date is circled on the calendar. Now the question is: what do you actually bring? A little preparation goes a long way toward making the day genuinely great.
This is the definitive packing list for a Newport Beach electric boat rental — food, drinks, clothing, safety essentials, entertainment, and the things most people forget.
The Essentials: Non-Negotiables for Every Rental
- Sunscreen: The #1 thing people regret not bringing. Water reflects UV rays — you get sun from above AND below. SPF 30 or higher, reapply every 90 minutes.
- Sunglasses: Polarized lenses cut glare dramatically and make the harbor much more enjoyable.
- Soft-sided cooler: Newport Fun Tours is fully BYOB. A soft-sided cooler fits more easily than a rigid one and won’t take up a seat.
- Charged phone or camera: Newport Harbor is extraordinarily photogenic. Bring a portable battery pack as backup.
- Water: At least one large water bottle per person — sun and wind dehydrate you faster on the water.
- Trash bag: Pack out everything you bring. Leave the boat cleaner than you found it.
Food: What to Eat on a Boat Rental
Best boat food is hands-free, mess-minimal, and needs no cooking:
- Charcuterie board — cured meats, cheeses, crackers, olives, grapes, nuts, dips. The king of boat food.
- Fruit skewers — easy to eat, refreshing, no utensils needed
- Mini sandwiches or sliders — pre-made, individually wrapped, easy to pass around
- Hummus and pita chips — packs well, crowd-pleasing
- Cupcakes or cookies — travel well and feel festive
What to avoid: Hot food that needs to stay warm, anything requiring cooking, strongly aromatic foods.
Drinks: BYOB on Newport Harbor
Newport Fun Tours is fully BYOB. Stock your cooler with:
- Wine (rosé and whites travel best chilled; use insulated tumblers)
- Canned cocktails — seltzers, margaritas, mojitos
- Beer (cans preferred over glass bottles)
- Non-alcoholic options — sparkling water, kombucha, lemonade
Pack the cooler the night before. Use a 2:1 ice-to-drinks ratio for a full day out. Bring cups, bottle opener, and napkins.
Clothing: What to Wear by Season
Spring (March-May): Light long-sleeve + windbreaker over a t-shirt. Afternoons warm up once the marine layer burns off.
Summer (June-August): Light, breathable clothing. Swimsuit with a cover-up. Sunscreen and a hat are mandatory.
Fall (September-November): Long sleeve over a t-shirt; bring a hoodie or fleece for the return trip.
Winter (December-February): Bundle up. Thermal base layer, fleece mid-layer, windproof outer layer. Hat, gloves, blanket.
Entertainment and Extras
- Your playlist: Newport Fun Tours boats have Bluetooth speakers — load your playlist before you arrive
- Waterproof phone case: Helpful if you’re leaning over the water for photos
- Binoculars: Great for spotting harbor wildlife — sea lions, pelicans, and occasional dolphins
- Cards or a small game: Perfect for a lazy drifting afternoon in a calm spot
What NOT to Bring
- Glass bottles: They can shatter on a boat deck — use cans or cups
- Oversized gear: A hard-sided cooler or giant bag takes up seat space. Travel light.
- Open-flame candles: Fire hazard. Use battery-powered LED candles for ambiance.
- Irreplaceable valuables: Leave expensive jewelry and non-waterproof electronics at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What food should I bring?
The best boat food is hands-free: charcuterie boards, fruit, mini sandwiches, chips and dips, and individual desserts.
Can I bring a cooler?
Yes — bring a soft-sided cooler pre-loaded with drinks, snacks, and plenty of ice. Newport Fun Tours is fully BYOB.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers appropriate for the season. Always bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Do the boats have Bluetooth speakers?
Yes — all Newport Fun Tours boats have Bluetooth speakers. Load your playlist before you arrive.
Pack Smart, Show Up Ready
A well-packed cooler and a little preparation are all it takes to turn a good boat rental into a great one. Book your electric boat rental at newportfuntours.com or call (949) 675-8433. Newport Fun Tours is at 2901 W Coast Hwy Suite 160, Newport Beach — the harbor is waiting.
