What type of cooler is best for a day trip versus a multi-day boating trip?

For day trips, choose a portable, lightweight cooler that is easy to carry and offers enough insulation for a few hours. For multi-day trips, go with a larger, heavy-duty marine cooler designed for extended ice retention to keep food and beverages fresh.

What features should I look for in a marine cooler?

Look for impact-resistant durability, thick-walled insulation for better ice retention, non-slip bases to prevent sliding, UV resistance for sun protection, rust-proof hardware for saltwater use, and extras like built-in cup holders, cutting boards, or fish rulers.

How do I keep ice longer in my marine cooler?

To retain ice longer, pre-chill the cooler and its contents before use. Use block ice or ice packs instead of crushed ice. Open the cooler as little as possible, and store it in a shaded area to reduce heat exposure.

What’s the difference between soft-sided and hard-sided marine coolers?

Soft-sided coolers are lightweight, portable, and ideal for short trips, though they offer less ice retention. Hard-sided coolers are more durable, provide better insulation, and are suited for longer trips or harsher marine environments.

How do I prevent my marine cooler from sliding around on deck?

Use a cooler with non-slip feet, place a non-slip mat under the cooler, or secure it with tie-down straps to keep it stable on wet or moving decks.

How do I clean and maintain a marine cooler?

Clean your cooler with mild soap and water after each use. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage materials. Make sure the drain plug is clear to prevent mold or odors, and let the cooler dry completely before storing it.

Marine Coolers | West Marine

Shop for premium marine coolers at West Marine.

Marine coolers provide boaters with a convenient way to preserve food and beverages. Anglers often use them to store their catch and frozen bait. Small pocket cruisers and owners of other small boats find marine coolers to be handier than an installed icebox, because they are portable, more versatile, and less expensive.

The plastic material used in constructing a hard-sided marine cooler must be durable, due to the abuse that most coolers receive from abrasion, UV, and impacts. Premium Igloo, Pelican, and Yeti coolers feature molded polyethylene construction that is resistant to warping, denting, and chipping—which distinguishes these coolers from less expensive models found in drugstores and supermarkets.

Coolers are offered in capacities that range from 24 quarts up to over 200 quarts. For those who wish to translate quarts to cubic feet, there are four quarts in a gallon and 7.5 gallons per cubic foot. Thus, a 60-quart cooler is about two cubic feet. The capacity of the cooler you choose should depend on the size of your crew, the duration of the outing or cruise, and of course, your budget.

There are a couple of accessories you might consider purchasing along with your cooler. Certain coolers can be fitted with cushions which make them more comfortable as seats. If the cooler will be placed on deck, purchasing a set of cooler mounting brackets or chocks is also a good idea.

Marine Coolers FAQ

Choosing the right cooler depends on the length of your trip:

Day Trips: Opt for a portable, lightweight cooler that is easy to carry and provides adequate insulation for a few hours.
Multi-Day Trips: A larger, heavy-duty marine cooler with superior ice retention will keep food and beverages fresh for extended periods.

Key features to consider when selecting a marine cooler:

Durability: Impact-resistant materials withstand harsh marine environments.
Insulation Quality: Thick-walled insulation improves ice retention.
Non-Slip Base: Prevents sliding on wet decks.
UV Resistance: Protects against sun damage.
Rust-Proof Hardware: Ensures longevity in saltwater conditions.
Extra Features: Built-in cup holders, cutting boards, and fish rulers enhance functionality.

To maximize ice retention in your cooler:

Pre-chill the cooler and its contents before adding ice.
Use block ice or ice packs, as they last longer than crushed ice.
Minimize cooler openings to prevent warm air from entering.
Store the cooler in a shaded area to reduce heat exposure.

Soft-sided and hard-sided marine coolers have distinct advantages:

Soft-Sided Coolers: Lightweight, easy to carry, and great for short trips. They offer convenience but have shorter ice retention.
Hard-Sided Coolers: More durable, provide better insulation, and are ideal for long voyages. Designed to withstand harsh marine conditions.

To secure your cooler and prevent sliding:

Choose a model with non-slip feet designed for marine decks.
Place a non-slip mat underneath the cooler for added grip.
Use tie-down straps to secure the cooler to the deck.

Proper maintenance ensures your cooler lasts longer:

Clean with mild soap and water after each use.
Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the cooler’s material.
Ensure the drain plug is clear to prevent mold and odor buildup.
Allow the cooler to fully dry before storing it to prevent mildew.