How to Name Your Boat: Tips, Ideas, and Inspiration from a Pro
If you’re struggling to come up with the perfect boat name — you’re not alone. As someone who’s helped boaters name everything from yachts and fishing vessels to family pontoons, I’ve seen firsthand how personal (and sometimes tricky) it can be.
So let’s break it down and make it easy.
🧠 Step 1: Think About Your Story
The best boat names often come from your life:
- A favorite saying or inside joke
- A pet’s name or family tradition
- A career or hobby (like “Knot on Call” for a retired doctor)
Write down 5–10 words that describe you, your boat, or your vibe.
💡 Step 2: Consider Name Styles
Popular categories include:
- Funny or Punny – Pier Pressure, Seas the Day
- Elegant and Classy – Serenity, Endless Summer
- Adventure-Based – Off Course, Beyond Shore
🎯 Step 3: Check for Practical Stuff
- Keep it short — easier to say over VHF
- Avoid confusing or hard-to-spell names
- Make sure it’s not already taken if you want to register it
🚀 Bonus: Need More Help?
Check out the Boat Names 101 Workbook — a fun, step-by-step guide I created to help boaters come up with unforgettable names and bring them to life with vinyl decals, accessories, and more.
👉 Click here to buy the book
(or contact me if you want help designing a custom boat name)
🛟 Final Thought
Whether it’s your first boat or your fifth, naming it should be fun, not frustrating. I’m here to help — feel free to explore the site, follow me on Pinterest, or shoot me a message if you get stuck!
Happy naming,
Doug
A.K.A. The Boat Name Guy
