What Shoes to Wear on a Boat Tour (And What to Avoid)

If you’ve ever wondered what shoes to wear on a boat tour, here’s the short version: pick something that grips, dries fast, and won’t wreck the deck. The right pair should keep you steady, comfortable, and focused on the view — not on staying upright. 

In this guide, we’ll break down why footwear matters on a boat, which shoes actually work, and what to leave back on shore.

Why Footwear Matters on a Boat

A boat deck is not the place to test your balance. And between the spray, the motion, and the occasional puddle, your shoes can really take a beating. Regular sneakers or dress shoes that handle sidewalks just fine can turn dangerous when the floor moves under you.

That’s why the best shoes for a boat cruise are those designed for traction and stability. Think soft rubber soles that grip wet surfaces and won’t leave marks behind. It also helps if they dry quickly, because soggy feet are fun for exactly no one. 

And beyond comfort, the right footwear helps protect you from slips, stubbed toes, or that awkward moment when you skid halfway across the deck trying to pose for a photo.

What Shoes to Wear on a Boat Tour

The good news is that there isn’t just one “right” shoe for boating, so you may not have to run out to the store. There are a few reliable options that won’t let you down.

Classic boat shoes

They’re called boat shoes for a reason. These leather or canvas shoes have non-marking, non-slip soles built for exactly this setting. They stay secure on your feet, dry quickly, and pair easily with shorts or casual outfits.

Non-slip shoes for boating

If you want function first, look for specialized non-slip shoes for boating. They’re lightweight, breathable, and made to channel away water so you don’t end up skating across the deck. Great for active tours or fishing trips.

Water shoes or sport sandals

For warm weather or casual tours, water shoes and strapped sport sandals work well. They let your feet breathe, dry instantly, and stay put even if you step in a puddle. Just skip the flimsy flip-flops—they belong on the beach, not the bow.

Can You Wear Sneakers on a Boat?

Yes, technically, you can — but you need to choose carefully. Some sneakers are fine, especially if they’ve got rubber soles that grip and don’t mark up the deck. Something like athletic shoes with clean, soft outsoles is usually a safe bet. 

But running shoes with worn-out treads or any sneaker with a dark, scuff-prone sole? Not so much.

Avoid chunky fashion sneakers, too. They may look great in photos, but they hold water, slide easily, and take forever to dry. 

If you’re planning a day on the water, comfort and safety beat style every time.

What Not to Wear on a Boat Cruise

Let’s make this easy. When you’re heading out on a boat tour, these are the types of shoes you should  avoid:

• Heels. You could twist an ankle before the boat leaves the dock.

• Flip-flops. They can slip off, trip you up, or go floating off into the horizon.

• Heavy boots. They’re clunky, stay wet forever, and feel awful in the sun.

• Anything with black soles. They’ll leave marks that the crew will be super less-than-thrilled to clean up.

Basically, if your shoes aren’t stable, non-marking, or water-friendly, leave them on land.

Stay Comfortable, Stay Upright

When you’re deciding what shoes to wear on a boat tour, think grip, comfort, and quick-dry materials. A little planning means you’ll actually enjoy the ride instead of worrying about slipping or ruining your shoes.

And if you’re ready to put this advice to good use, check out the Collingwood Charters events calendar to book your next boat tour. Just remember to bring the right shoes — and maybe some sunscreen — and you’ll be set for a smooth day on the water.