For several summers running, hard seltzers like White Claw and Truly dominated coolers on pontoons, wake boats, and fishing skiffs. But with cannabis beverages entering the mainstream, this season’s big conversation around marinas and sandbars is shifting: Are THC drinks becoming the new hard seltzers of summer boating? With big brands stepping into the space and consumers looking for lighter, hangover-free options, the trend is gaining momentum.
THC beverages have exploded in popularity thanks to recognizable consumer brands such as Cann, Keef, WYNK, Pabst Blue Ribbon High Seltzer, Cycling Frog, and Mary Jones. These companies have leaned into low-dose, session-friendly formulas—typically between 2–5 mg THC per can—that make them approachable for social settings like cruising down the Intracoastal, floating in a cove, or relaxing at anchor. The mild buzz aligns with the growing preference among younger boaters who are moving away from alcohol-heavy outings and toward more wellness-oriented, controlled experiences.
Brands like Cann Social Tonic have especially led the way, packaging their 2 mg THC/4 mg CBD tonics in fruity flavors such as Lemon Lavender and Grapefruit Rosemary. Their bright cans look and feel like traditional seltzers, making them easy additions to a cooler. WYNK Seltzer, another boating favorite, offers balanced 2.5 mg THC/2.5 mg CBD blends in refreshing flavors like Lime Twist and Mango. For those wanting a slightly bolder effect, Cycling Frog’s THC seltzers come in varieties like Black Cherry and Ruby Grapefruit and often contain higher doses, appealing to experienced consumers.
Even legacy beverage names have joined the THC wave. Pabst Blue Ribbon High Seltzer delivers a familiar branding style with a cannabis twist, offering 10 mg THC cans in flavors like Lemon and Strawberry Kiwi. Meanwhile, Mary Jones (from the Jones Soda brand) gives boaters nostalgic, craft-soda vibes with flavors like Blueberry Lemonade and Berry Lemonade in both 2.5 mg and 10 mg options. These recognizable labels reinforce the shift: THC beverages aren’t niche anymore—they’re becoming lifestyle products tied to recreation, relaxation, and outdoor leisure.
Flavor innovation is a big reason THC beverages are thriving on the water. Just like hard seltzers disrupted beer with tropical profiles, these cannabis drinks offer crisp, summertime tastes perfect for hot days on deck. Brands have mastered light carbonation, clean finishes, and fruit-forward blends ideal for slow sipping between swims or while lounging at anchor.
However, boating safely remains the most important factor. THC—regardless of the dose—can impair reaction time, depth perception, and decision-making. Even though many consumers sip THC beverages more slowly than alcohol, anyone operating a boat after consuming these products risks legal trouble and unsafe conditions for everyone onboard. THC impairment is treated much like alcohol impairment in many jurisdictions, so these beverages are best reserved for passengers or crews anchored for the day.
Legality can also vary. Many popular brands use hemp-derived Delta-9 to stay federally compliant under the Farm Bill, but state-level boating laws are not uniform. Savvy boaters should always check local regulations before stocking up.
Still, culturally, THC drinks are becoming the “new hard seltzers” of summer. They’re refreshing, social, flavorful, and offer a smooth, hangover-free alternative. For passengers, sandbar floaters, and those kicking back for a long day on the water, brands like Cann, WYNK, Keef, PBR High Seltzer, and Mary Jones are quickly becoming cooler essentials—signaling a new era of cannabis-friendly boating recreation.
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