When you shop at outback equipment , you'll be overwhelmed by choice so we’ve decided to put together a list of our favourite boat accessories over the year to help you find and build the perfect small water craft. You'll be blown away by aisles upon aisles of cool gear and gadgets for the next boating season. So many, in fact, that deciding which toys and treats are essential and which are merely icing on the boat cake can be difficult. 

1.  Supafend Boat Fenders 

Having boat fenders on board is a requirement, whether you want to raft up with some friends, tie up at a seaside restaurant, or simply protect that glossy gel coat when you visit the fuel dock. The Supafend fender is also a rope kit, so it is an all-in-one product. Supafend is a long-standing marine brand known for their high end, quality materials and products, which is why they are our number one choice for boat fenders. Don’t risk scratching up the new tinny wrap or dinging up the hull on a pontoon. Supafend boat fenders come in a variety of sizes and colours to complement your boat. They have eyelets on both ends and easy-to-inflate valves.  

2. Marine Communications & VHF Radios

Just like driving a car, communication in a convoy is essential when navigating the high seas. There isn’t any phone reception towers in the middle of the ocean, so ensuring the best possible radio chatter between mates and other vessels is crucial. This Cobra marine radio and comms system is a class-D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) technology at its most advanced. Cobra Maritime's whole array of portable and fixed mount marine equipment are packed with innovative, simple-to-use features that will keep you safe on the water. All of this technology is supported by Cobra Marine50-year track record of excellence. Replay missed VHF calls by simply connecting the radio to power. Simply connect the radio to electricity and the radio will know your location. PA feature for public address to external speaker. Submersible and water resistant. Don’t leave home without the best. 

3. A Relaxn Telescopic Boat Hook  

 Looking for a convenient way to rescue your favourite hat from the water or move a fender? Or just need some extra reach picking up a crab pot or grabbing hold of a rope whilst docking. The uses for a boat hook are endless. Keep a Relaxn Boat Hook on hand to avoid dangerously lengthy reaches and off-balance grabs. This aluminium boat hook is not only rust resistant, but it designed to fit into small spaces making it ideal space saver for small boat. It telescopes from 1.2m all the way up to 2.1m, making it convenient to store while also extending your reach. Plus, the nylon head has a non-scratching tip, and it floats so you won't lose it if you drop it.  

4. 12v Bilge Pump

  At Outback Equipment, we recognise that having a wonderful time on the water usually entails everyone in the boat being happy and comfortable in their seats. When it starts to rain or there is a splash back into the boat, your tinny can soon fill up, resulting in a lot of complaints from your passengers about their chilly, damp feet. Bilge pumps for boats are the solution to having a dry boat for the entire day. A bilge pump is a 12-volt pump positioned at the bottom of the transom, also known as the bilge region, where water collects at the back of the boat. A bilge pump for a boat works by generating a vacuum seal at the bottom of the transom or bilge region, allowing water to be transferred from the interior of the hull to the skim fitting via a small bilge hose. As it fills up, it uses 12v power from the onboard marine battery to pump out the water. A bailing scoop or bucket is usually the next best thing and this just becomes tiresome and annoying. 

Check out our range of 12v bilge pumps for big and small vessels here: 

5. Portable Marine Fuel Tank  

  When it comes to transporting fuel to the boat, a Portable Boat Fuel Tank makes the job a lot easier. It's designed specifically for easy and sturdy storage, even in cramped spaces. These tanks are built of high-density polythene and can hold gasoline or distillate. A removable inspection port hole, vented cap, stepped 16mm/20mm tail for external breather, 10mm fuel hose tail, blanked 1/4" BSP termination for a second fuel pickup or diesel return, and provision for a 5 hole fuel sender or gauge are among the features. The general rule of thumb for fuel tanks is leaving a third for the journey there, a third for the journey back and a third in case of emergencies. So if you plan on heading further a field we recommend taking more fuel with you than you think you need. Anything can go wrong on the water, including changing tides, swells and weather so don’t risk running out.  

6. LED Spotlights & Underwater Lights

With a good quality LED light on board, you'll be ready when the sun sets. Having a light inside the boat and outside will make life much easier when docking and moving around the tinny at night. One wrong step and it could be over board so installing the appropriate lighting is a must. Not only that, having lights on the outside of the boat will help you to navigate rocks and reefs at low tide, an essential part of any water craft. On high power, this permanent underwater light can be wired up to yoru on board marine battery and panel switch for your convenience. When they say "waterproof," they mean it, because this spotlight not only complies with IP68 standards. The primary spot light output is 60° from mounting surface and when using a diffused lens this under water marine light produces a 90° light output. 

7. Safety Gear & Life Jackets

You'll need to equip your boat with all of the necessary safety equipment, but you can cross pyrotechnic flares off your list by purchasing an all-in-one. The kit also includes an orange distress flag for daytime signalling, in addition to the waterproof floating electronic beacon (which may flash an SOS that is visible for three nautical miles). It essential that you have the following safety equipment in your arsenal: 

  • Relaxn Waterproof Bag 70 Ltr 

  • Life jacket 

  • Telescopic paddles 

  • LED signalling torch 

  • V sheet 

  • Small plastic bailer 

These items will protect you and your family in case of an emergency. There are hundreds of boating accidents per year, so never be caught out without the right gear to get you home safe. 

8. Sharp Knife

Any experienced fisherman would be able to tell you a story where a knife came in handy. There are so many uses for a high quality knife. Jarvis Walker Pro Knives makes fillet knives that are both effective and affordable. Jarvis Walker Pro Knives have stainless steel blades that stay sharper for longer than the typical knife. The ergonomic squeeze handles on Jarvis Walker Pro Knives are a nice touch. In the hand, these handles feature a rough feel that fits well in the palm and provides extra grip. They come with a sheath to keep the blade safe from harm. Choose from a 6", 7", or 8"1/2" model. When filleting fish, Jarvis Walker always recommends using a filleting glove. These knives are seriously sharp and a fish could catch you by surprise so make sure you are well prepared.   

9. Dometic Patrol Cooler 

Anyone on boat knows that you have to bring a way to keep those cold hard tinnies cold. If you fill this Premium Marine Cooler with ice, it will last for up to ten days. Inside its roto-molded polythene sides have 18.8L of interior capacity. On your next camping or fishing excursion, take advantage of the range of stylish colours and design of a Dometic Patrol icebox, which keeps ice frozen for days. Its rugged build allows for unlimited exploration.   

These Dometic Patrol Iceboxes are designed to keep ice frozen for days. With thick PU insulated walls, a one piece roto moulded construction, and a full-length hinge pin, this bag is built to last trip after trip. These iceboxes provide clever features like Patrol's leak-proof drain, deep-freeze lid seal, and one-hand rubber latch opening, which make them more than just a box to store ice in. A clever accessory dock may contain optional devices such as a bottle opener, cup holder, or fishing rod holder for your convenience.  

10. Weather Proof Gear    

Boaters must be prepared for unexpected rain or spray, and there is no better way to do so than with a weather proof jacket from Burke. Our Outback Equipment fishing shirts are available to go with the jackets, which are both made of 100% polyester, are water resistant and keeps you warm at sea or cool in hot conditions. This Burke weather proof jacket is further strengthened at important wear spots and has reflective patches for added visibility in low-light conditions. Finally, a wind/water-proof marine-grade spray jacket with breathable fabric lining for enhanced comfort and condensation control! The fashionable Spray 24 Jacket is made of sturdy nylon coated fabric with tape sealed seams and a fleece lined collar to keep you dry and comfortable on the harbour, in the bay, or onshore. 

These are just a selection of our essential marine products that we couldn’t' live without. Click here to see our huge range of marine accessories to suit your specific needs.  

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