5 Tips for Hosting a Holiday Gathering on a Boat 

Thinking about doing the holidays a little differently this year? When you live the boat life, it’s time to get creative and throw all the old traditions overboard. Plan to mix things up a little this year!

Make sure your boat is winter ready, string up some lights, decorate a small tree, blast the Christmas carols, and create a truly unforgettable holiday! Consider celebrating on the water with these five tips for hosting a holiday gathering on a boat.   

Boat Winterization
Make this year’s celebration memorable and unique by hosting a holiday gathering on your boat! 

Ensure your boat is winter ready.

In the right conditions and with the right preparation, winter boating offers you a completely unique experience.

Some of the benefits of winter boating include the following:

  • Peaceful cruising waters give you room to move.
  • Opportunities to brush up on your night boating skills.
  • Keeps your boat used and maintained, so there is less to do come summer.

Keep your boat afloat this winter and continue boating all year round with these tips for boating in cooler temperatures.

  • Keep fuel and water tanks topped.
  • Up the antifreeze.
  • Charge the batteries.
  • Make sure you are stocked with all necessary safety gear and cozy comforts.

Design the menu.

The beauty of having an intimate holiday on the water is that you can serve something simple and less traditional.

Think juicy turkey burgers with stuffing and cranberry toppings. Or you can go a little bigger and even less traditional with a fun and simple low-country boil. Another interesting idea – let your favorite angler spend the day fishing and then pair the day’s catch with some festive side dishes. For an easy, boat friendly meal, cook your favorite sides ahead of time then reheat using your oven or microwave. 

Brush up on your bartending.

What is a boat party without some spirits to warm the hearts of your guests?   

Add these delicious drinks to your evening menu as the perfect pairing for your holiday boat festivities.   

  • Cranberry mimosa – A cranberry mimosa is a cranberry lover’s version of the standard. Tart cranberries pair perfectly with a sugar-rimmed glass and sparkling champagne bubbles, top with a sprig of rosemary.  
  • Mistletoe Mule – Combine gin, lime, cranberry juice, and ginger beer. Pour into a mule mug and garnish with mint leaves.  
  • Naughty Peppermint Cocoa – Hot cocoa with peppermint schnapps and whipped vodka make this the perfect after dinner drink on the boat.  

Remember to be safe while enjoying cocktails and never drink and drive!

Create a festive ambiance.

Décor is crucial to getting everyone into the Christmas spirit at your holiday gathering.     

There’s nothing quite like the twinkling of lights and the scents of evergreen in the air to evoke nostalgia and some Christmas joy. Display garland, hang a wreath, decorate a table top tree, hang some twinkle lights, and don’t forget the music!  

Plan some fun festivities!

While space can be limited on a boat, be sure to plan a fun, holiday filled activity.   

Whether it is a holiday-themed game or a fun gift exchange, everyone will enjoy the fun of a planned holiday activity. If you need some gift exchange ideas, check out our blog post for some great gift ideas for boaters!   

If you’re ready to host a holiday gathering on your own boat, it might be time to treat yourself to an upgraded boat this holiday season! Boating is a lifestyle and a gift that keeps giving all year long. 

If you’re ready to take the plunge into boat ownership or finally make that upgrade, start with a boats for sale search, and our boat loan calculator to determine your monthly payments.