Heatwave safety tips for boat owners

The summer of 2026 may have only just begun, but we are already experiencing a second heatwave in the UK in as many months. We could well see the hottest June day on record with temperatures forecast to rise above 35C, according to the BBC. It will reach 28-30C across northern England and Wales, and throughout the south of England, the mercury could peak at around 36 or 37C. This could exceed the temperature record for June, set way back in 1976.

To make the most of the sunshine, many boat owners will be excited to get out onto the water. We could not agree more. However, it is important to be prepared and take precautions in order to deal with the sweltering conditions. We have packaged up some advice from our team:

Wear sunscreen

As the famous Baz Luhrmann song tells us, “wear sunscreen”. Make sure you apply the factor 50 before climbing aboard and bring a bottle or two so you can top up regularly. Always wear a hat too. Caps are fine but ideally wear a hat that protects both your face and the back of your neck. Remember, you can burn much quicker by the water due to the UV reflection and the cooling illusion of the water itself.

Hydrate

It is vital to stay hydrated during your boat trip. Many of our boats for sale include onboard fridges, so you can enjoy a refreshing cold beverage. However, if you do not have one, bring a cool box with you. If you plan on enjoying a crisp glass of white wine, then marvellous, but also bring plenty of water too.

Seek shade

Being out in the warm sunshine is particularly appealing to us Brits who spend the majority of the year tolerating the grey and cold weather. Make sure you enjoy it, but do take regular breaks in the shade. Sit under a canopy or occasionally retreat to your cabin. Failing that, be sure to bring an umbrella with you. If you’re planning on stopping for lunch, try to find a nice shady spot to moor your boat. Take advantage of the beautiful trees that line the UK’s river banks.

Swim (but with caution)

Many of the boats we sell include a swimming step, so people can easily access the water for a refreshing dip, but always be careful when doing so. Be aware of cold water shock. Even in 37C heat, UK river water stays cold, and jumping in suddenly can trigger the gasp reflex. The RNLI’s “Float to Live” advice (lean back, spread your arms and legs, float until the shock passes) is worth reading.

Seek advice on the best places to swim, so you avoid unpredictable currents. Always avoid drinking alcohol when planning to swim and definitely steer clear of busy areas where multiple vessels are using the river. Swimming is a fantastic perk of being a boat owner, but it can be dangerous. Be responsible, have safety equipment ready, make sure your first aid kit is fully stocked, and that there is always someone left on board.

Keep your phone with you

Use your smartphone to regularly check the weather forecast. Conditions can change quickly, especially during a hot period. Before setting off, plan how long you expect to be on the water and map out your route. You don’t want to be caught in torrential rain or a storm. You may find our blog – the top smartphone app recommendations for boating in the UK – useful over the summer months.

Be a responsible dog owner

Many owners love to bring their dog aboard, but dogs overheat far quicker than we do. Make sure your pet has plenty of shade and fresh water, and never leave them in a hot cabin. Watch out for hot decks too, as they can burn paws. If you are unsure, leave them at home. You may feel they are missing out, but it is the safer choice.

At Val Wyatt Marine, our team is always on hand if you need advice before heading out, whether it is about your boat, the conditions, or staying safe on the water. Make the most of the sunshine while it lasts and soak up these rare warm days. Just remember to take a few sensible precautions, look out for one another, and stay safe out there.