It’s an age-old boating paradox: When a boat has the weight capacity for a crew of 10, but actual seating is for only four. Fortunately, there are ways to add extra seats, with removable chairs that can provide comfort to those who prefer to remain seated. Here are three tried-and-true options for lounging on deck.
Bean Bag: Go-Anywhere Outdoor Beanbag Chair
Comforts: A personal favorite, the marine-ready beanbag is a great choice for the crew to throw into the cockpit so they can kick back for long runs to the canyon. The marine-grade vinyl cover holds up well to sun and spray exposure and the interior “beans” act as shock absorbers during rough conditions. They’re also lightweight, weighing in at less than 6 pounds, so they don’t add a lot of extra weight to your load.
The Chafe: While easy to flop down on, they can be hard to get out of when it’s time to stand up. Plus, they take up a lot of space and can’t be stowed away unless you have decent space belowdecks. Many boaters strap them to the hardtop.
Price: $74.99; westmarine.com
Deck Chair: Kingfish II Stainless-Steel Deck Chair
Comforts: Folding deck chairs have been a go-to option since forever, provided you have enough cockpit space to use them. The Kingfish II measures 29-by-26-by-14 inches and weighs 32 pounds. It has a cushioned seat and backrest covered with water-resistant vinyl, plus a safety catch to prevent accidental folding. When not in use, it can be folded to ease stowage.West Marine also sells an aluminum version of the Kingfish that’s less expensive than the stainless-steel one.
The Chafe: While it has grippy nubs on its legs for traction, it’s not secured to the boat so there’s a chance it could slide during a rough ride, plus it’s heavy and takes up a lot of stowage space.
Price: $252.99; westmarine.com
Read Next: How to Clean Boat Seats
Cooler Cushion Top: Wise Seating Premium Cooler Cushion
Comforts: If you bring aboard a portable hard-plastic cooler and set it on deck, odds are someone is going to sit on it. If your cooler didn’t come with an included cushion top, you can buy one aftermarket to fit your cooler size, such as this one from Wise that fits a 48-quart cooler. Made with marine-grade vinyl, it adds a layer of comfort to an obvious seat choice. There are other brands to fit specific cooler brands and sizes, so you should be able to find one to fit yours.
The Chafe: There’s no back support. If you’re going to use a cooler as a seat, make sure it is secured or place a damp towel underneath it so it doesn’t slide around on deck. It’s also a good idea to place it near a handhold.
Price: $83.49 for a 48-quart cushion; westmarine.com
