How to come up with a good boat name in Austin, Texas

You have finally scored that shiny, new boat – but what should you call it? Your vessel deserves a name that stands out and reflects your personality. However, a boat name isn’t all fun and games – you want to make it straightforward for communication over VHF radio and clarity in emergency situations. Read on to learn the basics of how to name a boat and get some creative inspiration.

Practical tips for how to come up with a boat name

Creativity is a big part of coming up with a boat name, but it’s not the only factor. Here are some practical considerations for how to name a boat to maximize safety and clarity:

• Keep it short. Your boat name should only be one to three words. A concise boat name isn’t just more elegant – it also makes it easier to clearly identify your vessel when you’re on the radio with other boats, the shore, or emergency services.
• Don’t ask for trouble. Avoid names that incorporate inappropriate language or focus on adult topics. A rude name will make things awkward for you when you run into families at the marina, and it could increase your chances of a visit from law enforcement.
• Double-check your name is available. If you wind up cruising near a boat that shares your name, things could get very confusing very quickly. Check databases like the National Vessel Documentation Center or your state’s boat registration list. If you primarily spend your time on Lake Travis and someone else up in Lake Erie has the same boat name, you’re probably okay, but try to avoid twinning with another boat in your region.

Now that we’ve got these practical tips out of the way, let’s get to the fun stuff!

Boat name inspiration

If you’re looking for some boat name inspiration, we’ve got your back. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Boat purpose. Start by thinking about how you’re actually going to use your boat. If you’re planning on fishing, pick a name like “Reel Deal.” If you love watersports, you could try “Wave Warrior.” Just looking for a relaxing cruise? How about “Stress Relief?”
• Important people and places. For many people, a boat is a great way to honor a loved one, like a spouse, child, or parent, or pay homage to their hometowns. Your son is sure to love heading out on the lake on “Jake’s Adventure,” and Texans can honor their home state with “The Yellow Rose.” Austin, Texans, particularly might appreciate shouting out their neighborhoods: “The Westlake Wanderer,” “The Northshore Navigator,” or something a little more on-brand for the whole city: “Keepin’ it Weird.”
• Pop culture. There’s a long history of boats being named for movies, songs, and literary and mythological figures – especially gods associated with the water. If you’re an ABBA fan, you can name your vessel “Mamma Mia,” or if you have a mythological bent, go with “Poseidon’s Pride.” We will not shame you if you name it “A Taylor Swift Breeze.”
• Wordplay. When you’re walking around the marina, you’ll probably spot a lot of “punny” boat names. Wordplay is always in style, and it’ll give you a chuckle whenever you set out. Try names like “Seas the Day” or “Drop the Bass.”

Christen your vessel

Once you pick your boat name, it’s time to christen your vessel. You don’t have to have a christening celebration, but it’s a fun tradition that your friends and family will enjoy. It’s traditional to toast the vessel (with champagne, soda, or whatever you like to drink) and place something symbolic on the bow, like a green branch for a safe return to land. Then, head out on your maiden voyage!

If you’re re-naming your boat, there’s an old superstition that mandates a special ceremony. According to folklore, every boat’s name is recorded in “The Ledger of the Deep” by Poseidon. If you rename a boat without informing the sea god, he may think you’re trying to cheat him and turn his wrath on your vessel.

If you’re feeling superstitious:

1. Call upon Poseidon (or your water god of choice) and the four winds. Be respectful!
2. Thank them for protecting the vessel in the past.
3. Request that the old boat name be struck from the Ledger of the Deep.
4. Rededicate the boat under its new name.
5. Leave a symbolic offering (like a shell or a flower) on your boat in thanks.

Remember, this story is just a legend, but it can be a fun and unique addition to your christening ceremony – and if it soothes any anxieties, that’s fine, too.

Give your boat a home at Northshore Marina

Now that your boat is all named and christened, give it a home at Northshore Marina at the Hollows. We have 328 luxury wet slips – up to 80 feet, the longest on Lake Travis – to keep you and your vessel in comfort and safety. Each slip is equipped with electricity, Wi-Fi, and freshwater supply, and being a Northshore Marina tenant also gives you access to premium amenities like our member lounge (with a grill and TV), air-conditioned restrooms and showers, commercial-grade washers and dryers, and dock trams.

Request a slip today to discover why Northshore Marina has won “Outstanding Marina of the Year” six times!