A Guide to sunscreen while boating
Nothing goes hand in hand quit like boating and sunshine! Except for maybe UV exposure and sun damage. Sunscreen is not an option when you are on the water, it is essential. Here is a practical guide to staying protected while you are out enjoying your time with friends and family.
Why sunscreen is essential on the water
When you are on the water, the sun doesn’t just come from above: it also comes from below. In fact, the water reflects up to 25% of UV rays. You can burn in as little as 15 minutes on the water. This means that not only do you need to apply a higher SPF, you will also need to reapply even if you are using products labeled all day protection. Water and sweat can easily strip you of any significant protection.
Water-Resistant VS. Waterproof
There is no such product out there that offers full UV protection that is fully “Waterproof”. You generally have two options. Water-resistant, which offers on average 40 minutes of protection for light activity. The second option is Very Water-Resistant, which offers 80 minutes of protection for swimming, tubing, wake surfing, etc. A good rule of thumb is to reapply every 2 hours or sooner if you are out in the water having fun.
Tips from the Pro Boaters
If this all seems overwhelming, fret not! It’s just sunscreen. At the end of the day, even if you are beet-red after your Bigfoot boat rental, it is likely you enjoyed your time on the water, and the sunburn was just another battle scar. However, here are some tips if you want to leave with a nice tan instead.
Apply your protection BEFORE you leave the dock. Sunscreen does not automatically start working upon application. It needs time to absorb. Step out of the car, then apply to ensure maximum protection.
Make sure you don’t miss the tops of your ears, back of your neck, tops of your feet, and your hands (ESPECIALLY if you are the driver).
Use a sun screen stick for your face. It may sound odd, but this way you can be more precise of the application areas, and it won’t tend to run into your eyes.
SPF Lip Balm - if you haven’t experienced sunburn on your lips, consider yourself lucky. This is very brutal, and can be easily curbed by a cheap tube of SPF lip balm.
Keep a bottle on board. Your car, cooler, to go bag, just don’t forget it! If you find yourself lacking sunscreen, most docks and drop off points have some sort of shop nearby where you can get last minute supplies, such as the Alhonna resort and Marina located at Bigfoot Boat Rentals.
Fun in the sun
In late July of 2025 at Lake of the Ozarks, we experienced heat indices of 110 to 120 Degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure you stay ahead of the game when planning your next trip with Bigfoot Boat Rentals so you can beat the heat!
