Here is a list of what I think are optional upgrades, you know you don’t “technically” need them, but they are so cool and convenient that you have to have them.
Smart Tabs
I wasn’t sure if my boat really needed trim tabs, it is only 21′. I went ahead and did a ton of research on the benefits of adding trim tabs to a boat and decided that I did not need full-blown trim tabs. I found smart tabs, and let me tell you, they work incredibly well for my boat.
The patented SMART TABS are a one of a kind trim and stabilizer system that automatically adjusts to the sea conditions, without the need for expensive electric or hydraulic hardware and switches. The system constantly reacts to the water conditions, boat speed, and balance providing a remarkable improvement on any boat.
Nauticus Inc.
They are super easy to install, it only took me about one hour, but the benefit is undeniable. With them installed my boat gets faster on plane and cuts better through waves. You can go here to check their prize on Amazon.
Fridge
I saw this on a boating group I belong to. The guy was talking about how great it was and that he doesn’t have to stop for ice anymore. So naturally, I did a ton of research on it and this is what I found. You install this drawer fridge on your boat probably under a seat or on one of the compartments and wire it to your power panel, and voila never have another warm drink. It is small enough to feet under a seat but big enough to accommodate multiple beverages. I haven’t bought it yet, but its definitely on my wish list.
Sound System
If you love music as much as I do, a sound system is a no brainer. There are hundreds of options available for all boat types and budgets. Just remember to follow boating etiquette, and don’t be that person blasting everyone away from the sand bar.
Underwater Light
I got this one from amazon. There is no other reason to have an underwater light other than it just looks cool. The one I got replaces the drain plug, so installation is super easy, and it really looks cool at night.
Bilge Pump
Although optional, a second bilge pump is a good idea. Remember that any electric device can fail, including your bilge pump. If you have a second one, you just doubled your chances of prevailing. I got this one on amazon and are very happy with the results and how easy it was to install.
Graphics
Just to make your boat look that much cooler. I went to my local vinyl wrapping shop, and they design and installed some graphics on the side of my boat for an excellent price. It makes my boat look cool and different from the rest. You can probably do a google search and find a bunch of online options.
Window Tint
Tint also makes the boat look cool, but the added benefit is that it prevents the dashboard from getting very hot. Here is more information about tinting your boat’s windshields and why you would want to.
Wake Tower
Wake towers add a few more benefits to your boat than just wakeboarding. You can add a bimini top to your tower to add some shade to your boat. You can mount speakers on the wake tower. You can install lighting on the tower as well, and I like the look a wake tower gives to a boat. These people have a great selection of wake towers that can feet almost any boat.
USB Chargers
I added a few of these waterproof USB chargers around my boat. This way, people in your boat are not fighting for a spot to charge their electronic devices.
Battery Lights
Mount these closet battery lights (link to amazon) on the boat’s dark compartments to make your life easier when looking for stuff. The battery lasts a long time, the light is very bright, and they are super inexpensive.
Console Rearrangement
This was completely unnecessary, but I was so happy with the results. So I cut a hole in the console where the boat’s instruments used to be. Then y replaced that with a piece of carbon fiber and drew a new template to accommodate for the new Chartplotter. After that, I cut new holes and installed the equipment. Like I said above, I know it was unnecessary, but it looks so much better and is so much functional than before I could not be happier.