Why You Need a Gunwale Boarding Mat for Your Boat

Your boat's gunwale can be susceptible to marks, scratches and dents. Whether the damage occurs from supplies on the boat or while passengers are boarding and disembarking, visible signs of wear and tear can compromise the appearance and functionality of your boat.

To help protect your gunwale and enhance the boating experience for you and your passengers, consider using a Sunbrella gunwale boarding mat. These mats are especially designed to drape over the side of the boat’s gunwale, adding both functionality and style. 

What Is a Gunwale Boarding Mat? 

Gunwale boarding mats are typically designed out of strong, durable materials like Sunbrella. From harsh UV rays to splashes of saltwater, marine environments can be harsh and damaging. 

A gunwale boarding mat will add the right amount of protection for you and your passengers. You can drape it over the side of your boat so that you have a safe, non-slip surface to step onto and board. 

Because it’s made out of Sunbrella fabric with a non-skid, non-marking rubber underside, you can feel confident that it will be able to withstand all kinds of marine weather conditions. To help keep it in place without clips and fasteners, sand weights are sewn into each end.

What Are the Benefits of Using Gunwale Boarding Mats? 

No matter what kind of boat you have, you’ll find that there are several benefits to using gunwale boarding mats. These mats can help:

• Keep your gunwale clean: Debris like sand and dirt can easily make its way inside  your boat whenever you and your passengers board and disembark. A gunwale mat can help prevent debris from being tracked all inside your boat. If your mat gets dirty, it can easily be removed and rinsed off so that it looks good as new again.
• Protect your boat's finish: A gunwale boarding mat will protect high-traffic areas from scratches and scuffs by acting as a protective barrier. You won't have to worry about your boat's finish getting damaged when boarding or loading gear. Gunwale boarding mats offer a simple solution for protecting the resale value of your boat each time you go out on your boating adventures. 
• Add comfort and grip: Thanks to the rubber backing and weighted ends, gunwale mats add a secure, non-slip surface to enter and exit the boat. You can count on it to stay in place, helping prevent slips and falls.
• Offers personalized style: While practical, gunwale boarding mats can also significantly enhance the look of your boat. With your choice of fabric colors, embroidery and custom text and logo options, you can create a personalized look that will leave a lasting impression. 

How to Choose the Right Gunwale Mat

Because your gunwale boarding mat will be exposed to all kinds of weather conditions, look for marine-grade materials that can withstand the environment. When choosing your gunwale mat, consider the size and type of boat. Gunwale mats come in a variety of sizes, such as 20” x 36” and 30” x 36.” Depending on your boat, one size may fit your boat better than the other. 

You can also choose between standard or custom embroidery options. There are all kinds of standard marine graphics available or you can choose to have your boat’s name or logo embroidered for a more custom finish. 

Start Designing a Custom Gunwale Boarding Mat Today

If you’re looking to add a practical and personalized touch to your boat, Matworks has you covered. We specialize in high-quality, personalized marine accessories like custom Sunbrella gunwale boarding mats to help you add a custom touch to your boat. 

To take advantage of our BOGO sale, add two Sunbrella gunwales to cart and use discount code HOLIDAYBOGO at checkout to save. 

Shop our custom marine gunwale mats today!