The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Cooler for Boating Excursions

Looking to keep your beverages icy cold during your boating excursions? Look no further! We've compiled a list of the best coolers for boating, ranging from heavy-duty options perfect for big boats to budget-friendly choices that won't break the bank. Whether you're searching for top-tier performance or a cooler that floats alongside you on the water, we've got you covered. Get ready to find the best cooler for your boating adventures and ensure your drinks stay chilled all day long!

Best for Big Boats: Yeti Tundra Coolers

Key Features

• Available in sizes ranging from 35 to 350 quarts
• Made with durable rotomolded construction
• Features a two-pin interlocking hinge system for added durability

Yeti Tundra coolers are incredibly tough and can keep ice cold for an impressively long time.

Pros

• Extremely durable
• Keeps ice cold for extended periods
• Wide range of sizes available

Product Description

Yeti Tundra coolers are known for their durability, ease of cleaning, and ability to keep ice for days. It's no wonder that serious charters around the world rely on Yeti coolers to preserve their catch. These coolers are virtually indestructible and can keep ice cold for an incredibly long time, ensuring that your freshly caught tuna stays fresh. Yeti coolers are more than just a lifestyle brand - they are reliable tools that can withstand the elements. Choose the size that fits your boat, fill it with ice, and trust that it will keep your essentials cold while you focus on other matters.

Dometic Patrol 55 boat cooler

Specifications

Capacity: 54L / 48QTWeight: 15kg / 33.1lbsConstruction: Roto-moulded polyethyleneWarranty: 7 years

Reasons to buy

• Thick and comfortable handles

• Optional slide-out divider

• Additional accessories include a fishing rod mount, cupholder, and bottle opener

Reasons to avoid

• Relatively higher price

The Dometic Patrol 55 is a rugged and durable boat cooler constructed from one-piece roto-moulded polyethylene. It features thick rope handles with rubber grips for easy lifting and is surprisingly lightweight for its sturdy build. Even when it's fully loaded, the cooler can still be carried by two people. The optional slide-out divider allows for better organization of the contents and the drop-in cages can elevate items that need extra care. If you're looking for a reliable cooler that can withstand marine environments, the Dometic Patrol 55 is a great choice.

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Igloo 70 qt. Trailmate Journey Marine Cooler

Specifications

Capacity: 70QT / 66L

Dimensions: 19.7 x 34.59 x 23.61 inchesWeight: ‎43.5lbs / 19.7kg

Reasons to buy

• Features a large handle and oversized wheels for easy transport

• Equipped with a stow-away tray and molded cupholders

Reasons to avoid

• Relatively heavy for a 72 quart cooler (43lbs when empty)

• Expensive considering its insulation capabilities

The Igloo 70 quart Trailmate Journey Marine Cooler is a versatile and rugged cooler designed with portability in mind. It comes with large and sturdy wheels, making it easy to roll down to the dock. The cooler is also compact enough to be carried on and off the boat without much hassle. One unique feature is the small tray that can double as a cutting or serving board. With additional storage pockets and molded drink holders, this cooler is perfect for boaters looking to enjoy a day at the sandbar or a secluded riviera.

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Igloo Stainless Steel 54 Quart Cooler

Specifications

Capacity: 54QT / 51L

Dimensions: ‎24.45 x 15.87 x 16.5 inchesWeight: ‎16.55lbs / 7.5kg

Reasons to buy

• Integrated bottle cap opener

• Elegant stainless steel finish

• Heavy-duty latch for secure closure

• Integrated grab handles for easy carrying

• Excellent ice retention for up to 4 days

Reasons to avoid

• Stainless steel finish can be prone to dents

• Relatively higher price compared to similar capacity coolers

The Igloo Stainless Steel 54 Quart Cooler offers both style and functionality. Its sleek design and lightweight construction make it easy to carry and it doesn't take up much space on your boat's deck. The cooler is equipped with an integrated bottle cap opener, a heavy-duty latch for a secure closure, and convenient grab handles. It can keep ice cold for up to 4 days, ensuring that your drinks and perishables stay chilled. While the stainless steel finish can be susceptible to dents, this cooler is still an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and stylish cooler.

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RTIC Hard Cooler

Specifications

Capacity: 145QT / 137L

Dimensions: ‎42.99 x 20.98 x 22.24 inchesWeight: ‎64lbs / 29kg

Reasons to buy

• Robust construction with heavy-duty latches and thick insulation

• Heavy weight prevents sliding on deck while underway

• Spacious interior with large capacity

• Available in a variety of colors

Reasons to avoid

• Handles may not be as sturdy as desired

• Relatively high price point

• No wheels for easier transport

The RTIC Hard Cooler is a top-notch deck cooler with a spacious interior and exceptional ice retention of up to 10 days. It is constructed with heavy-duty latches and features thick insulation for superior cooling performance. Thanks to its heavy weight, it stays securely in place on the deck even during rough conditions. With its large capacity, the RTIC Hard Cooler can accommodate all your drinks and perishables. Although it doesn't have wheels, this cooler is an excellent choice for boaters who prioritize durability and long-lasting ice retention.

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Coleman 100QT Xtreme wheeled cool box

Specifications

Capacity: 94L / 100QTWeight: 10.6kg / 23.4lbsConstruction: HDPEWarranty: 1 year

Reasons to buy

• Lightweight and easy to handle

• Sturdy construction for durability

• Affordable price point

Reasons to avoid

• Limited accessories included

• May require additional securing due to lack of rubber feet

The Coleman 100QT Xtreme wheeled cool box is an excellent option for boaters on a budget. It offers a generous 94L / 100QT capacity and is made with high-density polyethylene construction for durability. The injected polyurethane foam insulation in the walls and lid helps maintain consistent temperatures. Despite its large capacity, the cool box remains relatively lightweight and easy to handle. While it may not come with many accessories, it offers great value for the price and is a reliable option for keeping your drinks and perishables cold.

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Igloo 165 qt. Maxcold Cooler

Specifications

Capacity: 165QT / 156L

Dimensions: ‎41.25 x 17.75 x 22.6 inchesWeight: ‎32.6lbs / 14.8kg

Reasons to buy

• One of the most affordable deck coolers on the market

• Impressive ice retention of up to 7 days

• Threaded drain plug can be connected to a garden hose for easy draining

• Locking knob ensures a secure seal

Reasons to avoid

• Build quality may not be as robust as higher-end options

• May not offer the same level of insulation as premium coolers

For budget-conscious boaters, the Igloo 165 qt. Maxcold Cooler is a cost-effective choice. While it may not have all the premium features of higher-end options, it still performs well and offers exceptional value. The cooler can keep ice frozen for up to 7 days, making it suitable for extended trips. It features a threaded drain plug that can be connected to a garden hose for effortless draining. Additionally, the locking knob ensures a secure seal to prevent any leaks. If you're looking for an affordable cooler that gets the job done, the Igloo 165 qt. Maxcold Cooler is a reliable option.

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Best Budget: Igloo Marine Ultra

Key Features

• Available in sizes: 36, 54, 72, and 94 quarts
• Offers UV protection
• Rust-resistant hardware
• Non-slip comfort handles

The Igloo Marine Ultra is a modern redesign of a trusted classic. It offers a proven design and impressive ice retention, making it a great choice for boaters on a budget.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Relatively lightweight
• Performs well in marine environments
• Durable hinges

• May not keep ice as long as some of the best fishing coolers

The Igloo brand has long been known for its quality and reliability, and the Igloo Marine Ultra is no exception. While it may not be their top-tier model, it strikes the perfect balance of quality, weight, performance, and value. Whether you're transporting freshly caught fish or enjoying a concert by the water, these coolers deliver. They are lightweight, durable, and provide excellent cooling performance at a more affordable price point. They even come with a fish ruler molded into the top for checking the size and legality of your catch. If you're on a budget, the Igloo Marine Ultra is one of the best boat coolers available.

Best Floating: CreekKooler

Key Features

• Sizes: 15 and 30 quarts
• The larger size can float with 30, 12-ounce cans and 20 pounds of ice
• Foamed insulation

The CreekKooler has a straightforward design that makes it perfect for floating behind an inner tube, kayak, paddleboard, or canoe.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Hydrodynamic design
• Comfortable handles for carrying
• Multiple color options

• Limited sizes and capacity

For a long time, anglers and boaters have struggled to find a way to secure a cooler outside of their small boats when space is limited. They've tried placing them on innertubes or other contraptions, but it usually leads to inconvenience or failure. The CreekKooler has solved this problem with its purpose-driven design. It floats easily without adding resistance, and it has enough weight to keep your drinks cold and withstand bouncing off rocks or dock pilings. Whether you want to explore hidden spots or float with your hands free, this cooler will get the job done. It even has slots on the deck for koozies so you can paddle or fish without worrying about where to secure your drink.

Best for Flying: Yeti Hopper M30

Key Features

• Holds 36 pounds of ice
• Built-in Hitchpoint grid to attach accessories
• Quick-release buckles
• Extra-wide MagShield access mouth

The Yeti Hopper M30 may look like a picnic basket, but it's actually a highly durable cooler in fancy clothing.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Great color options
• Remarkably strong magnetic seal
• Puncture-proof
• Extra-wide mouth for easy loading

• Odd shape may not fit in all spaces

I got the M30 soft cooler before my first trip to Panama to bring home some yellowfin tuna filets, and it exceeded my expectations. I was skeptical about its magnetically-sealed top preventing melting ice from leaking through, but it proved me wrong. This cooler can hold ice for a remarkably long time, and its strong magnet and seal keep the cold locked in. We even checked it as luggage on the way home, and despite delays, our tuna remained frozen solid. The great thing about this cooler is that it's suitable for both flying and boating. It can be checked or carried on and fits easily into storage compartments or thin gaps. It also has extra features like a hitching grid for accessories and heavy-duty buckles in case the magnets fail. We've put this cooler through a lot, and it still looks brand new despite our travels.

Everlasting Comfort Insulated Cooler Backpack

Specifications

Capacity: 54 cans

Dimensions: 13.38 x 8.66 x 17.71 inchesWeight: ‎2.06lbs / 930g

Reasons to buy

• Comfortable and ergonomic with adjustable straps that can be worn as a backpack

• Lightweight and easy to manage design

• Leak-proof on the inside and weather-resistant on the outside

Reasons to avoid

• Limited capacity

• Only suitable for up to 24 hours

This insulated backpack tote cooler is perfect for transporting food from the grocery store to your boat.

With adjustable straps and special holders for wine, it is the perfect accessory for cruisers and weekenders alike.

The interior is made with PEVA (Polyethylene vinyl acetate), making the backpack leakproof and easy to clean.

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Best Heavy Duty for the Money: RTIC Hard Coolers

Key Features

• Sizes from 20 to 145 quarts
• Non-slip surfaces for standing or use as a cutting board
• Rubber T-latches and molded tie-down slots

These RTIC Hard Coolers offer heavy-duty cooling abilities without the high price of other brands.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Less expensive than the competition
• Keeps ice and perishables cold for long periods of time
• 3-inch foam-insulated walls

Product Description

If you're looking for heavy-duty, long-lasting performance like Yeti coolers but at a more affordable price, RTIC has you covered. I've used these coolers on camping trips and river expeditions, and they have performed excellently, especially considering their price. If you need an extra-large model for a large boat, you might have to look to more expensive brands, but if you're conscious of your budget, these coolers are widely available and will act as a portable refrigerator in most conditions.

KULA Cooler 5

Specifications

Capacity: 24QT / 22.7L

Dimensions: ‎16.75 x ‎16.75 x 14.25 inchesWeight: ‎13lbs / 5.9kg

Reasons to buy

• Sturdy grab handle and latch

• Rubber feet to prevent sliding

• Well-insulated

Reasons to avoid

• Relatively expensive

• 20-quart capacity is smaller than the Yeti cooler

This 5-gallon bucket-style cooler from Kula is extremely well-designed and ergonomic, with non-slip rubber feet.

It is particularly effective at preserving ice during transport, thanks to its strong insulation and durable latch-and-grab handle.

However, all of these features come at a higher price compared to other coolers.

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Best Backpack Cooler for Boating: IceMule Boss

Key Features

• Easy load top
• Waterproof zippers and welded seams
• Extra-tough exterior
• Holds 24 cans

This IceMule backpack cooler combines technical backpack features with a top-notch cooler that is comfortable to carry all day.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Ergonomic design
• Multiple separate waterproof compartments
• Designed for insulation and waterproofness

Product Description

If you're going to be carrying your boat over a long distance, embarking on a flyout adventure, or waiting in line with your imported filets for an extended period, holding a shoulder strap can be tough and annoying. Carrying the weight on your back can relieve that stress, as long as your carrying device is designed ergonomically. The IceMule fits that bill with padded shoulder straps, an adjustable hip belt, and a cross-chest stabilizer strap. It doesn't compromise toughness or waterproofness to achieve this level of comfort. In fact, it's overengineered to keep your items cold while remaining remarkably lightweight. It's perfect for a floatplane or any sized boat, and if you choose it over a hard-sided cooler, you'll get double value as it also functions as a boat bag or general luggage.

Yeti Roadie 24

Specifications

Capacity: 2.11QT / 2L

Dimensions: ‎17.1 x 14.3 x 18 inchesWeight: ‎12.8lbs / 5.8kgs

Reasons to buy

• Robust construction and excellent insulation

• Available in many colors

• Superb insulation for its size

• Integrated carrying strap

Reasons to avoid

• Limited capacity for its size

• Expensive

The Yeti Roadie 24 is another great option for packing food, drinks, and ice for your boat.

Made from hard plastic, it offers better insulation than a cooler backpack, but it is heavier and bulkier.

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Best for Packing a Lunch: ORCA Walker 20

Key Features

• 20 quarts
• Double denier outer material
• Comfortable shoulder strap
• Insulated walls
• Magnetic split handle

The ORCA Walker 20 has a compact design that is highly portable while maintaining excellent engineering.

Pros

• Lightweight and highly portable
• Insulated inner walls keep items cold for longer
• Leakproof zipper

Product Description

I won this cooler as a door prize at a remote fishing event, and I didn't think much of it initially. But when it was time to fly home, it turned out to be the perfect "personal item" to fit under the seat in front of me. Ever since then, it has hardly left my side. I use the Orca Walker to keep my lunch cool all day after the refrigerator at work died. It's also great for road trips and fits perfectly in my truck or boat without getting in the way. It only weighs 3.6 pounds but can hold up to 50 pounds. Its compact size allows it to fit into tight gaps without being a hassle. Most importantly, I've left a cold beer on ice in it during scorching hot days, and it still stays icy and refreshing when I come back.

YETI Tundra 250 Cooler

Specifications

Capacity: 250QT / 237L

Dimensions: ‎55 x 22 x 21.25 inchesWeight: ‎66lbs / 30kgs

Reasons to buy

• Extremely robust construction and top-of-the-line insulation

• Heavy and therefore ideal for use on a boat in motion

• Massive capacity

Reasons to avoid

• Very expensive

• Difficult to move when full

The YETI Tundra 250 is the top-of-the-line deck cooler that comes with a high price. Like the RTIC cooler mentioned earlier, it has over 3 inches of insulation and is exceptionally well-built to withstand the elements.

With a capacity of 250 quarts, this cooler can hold almost any size of pelagic fish. However, it is also 55 inches long and weighs 66 pounds when empty.

When completely filled with ice, it can hold up to 232 pounds, making it difficult to move around on a boat. This large cooler is best suited for large open power boats like sportfish yachts that have a spacious open rear deck.

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Didn't find what you're looking for? Head to Amazon's dedicated boating page for more marine products.

When it comes to boating excursions, having a reliable cooler is essential. Whether you have a big boat or a small one, there is a cooler on this list for every type of boater. The Yeti Tundra Coolers, Dometic Patrol 55 boat cooler, and Igloo 70 qt. Trailmate Journey Marine Cooler are great options for those with larger vessels, providing ample storage space and superior insulation. For those on a budget, the Igloo Marine Ultra offers affordability without sacrificing quality. If you're looking for a cooler that floats, the CreekKooler is your best bet. And for those who love to fly to their boating destinations, the Yeti Hopper M30 is the ultimate travel companion. No matter your boating style or needs, there is a cooler on this list that will keep your beverages cold and your spirits high on your next adventure.