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23 Boat Party Games For All The Family

Ahoy there, party planners! I’ve written this ultimate guide to boat party games for the entire family, which features onboard and anchored activities.

You can read all of my game guides  here .

If you like to spend time by the water, explore GTQ’s list of family beach games .

Boat Party Game Ideas

Seashell hunt.

Engage in a friendly competition by hiding seashells around the boat, and let your friends search for them.

The one with the most seashells at the end wins, and if you want to make the game more interesting, you can create a points system based on how unique the seashell is or how hard it may be to find.

This game is ideal for all ages, especially those who enjoy a scavenger hunt on the water.

Add a touch of physical challenge with Limbo.

If you don’t have a stick long enough for Limbo, use a pool noodle, a rope, or a string and see who can bend the lowest without tumbling to the floor.

Mermaid/Merman Makeover

Transform your friends into mythical sea creatures with Mermaid/Merman Makeover.

Use washable face paint to create whimsical designs, making it a hit among creative souls and those who enjoy playful transformations.

The Mermaid/Merman Makeover also makes for a great social-media photo opportunity, with everyone dressed up in hilarious nautical themes.

Floating Fashion Show

Embrace your fashion creativity in a Floating Fashion Show.

Raid your friends’ closets for nautical-themed outfits and put on a quirky runway display, or use items found lying about the boat.

Floating Fashion Show is a favorite among fashion enthusiasts and those who enjoy light-hearted humor.

Boat Beer Pong

Beer pong has been a staple of young twenty-somethings as long as there have been college campuses and affordable apartments in trendy towns.

You only need to put a game together with a table, about 20 (red) cups, and ping pong balls.

Fill each cup with a beverage of your choice, setting up 10 on each end of the table.

Participants will then take turns attempting to throw the ping pong balls into the cups on the other side of the table.

If a ball goes in, the other team has to drink from that cup and set it aside to clear the other team of all of their cups before they clear you of yours.

You may also like our list of beach games for adults .

Conversational/Card Games on the Boat

Marine trivia.

Test your maritime knowledge with a round of marine trivia.

A designated list of trivia questions related to the sea will be delivered to different teams or individuals, and a judge/emcee will determine who guesses the most questions correctly each round.

To make the game more organized, designate a judge who has pulled up a specified list of questions and answers and can also act as the emcee.

Marine trivia is perfect for trivia enthusiasts and anyone who loves a good intellectual challenge and is looking for less physical games to play on a boat.

Alternatively, check out our trivia section for other themes such as sport , music , and geography .

Going on a Picnic

Going on a Picnic is a conversational game in which one person invites others to a picnic.

Participants will only receive an invite when they correctly identify which type of item they should bring.

The inviter has secretly selected a theme of what can be brought, which can be as basic as a shared color or something obscure like everything needs to be made of wood.

The game’s challenge is that to get the picnic invite, everyone else must work together to gather enough ‘correct items’ to identify the theme.

Players work together to uncover clues while racing to the finish line at their own speed.

The theme could be adapted to reflect the trip by calling the game Going on a Sailing Adventure.

Island Storytelling

Start a story about an imaginary island adventure.

Each person adds a sentence to build a unique narrative.

As the sentences continue to build on each other, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep the story going, and the twists and turns become increasingly humorous.

Island storytelling is tailored for those with vivid imaginations and are unafraid of testing the limits of a proper story.

In a game of Charades, you’ll be asked to step out of your comfort zone while sharing a laugh or two.

Act out words or phrases without equipment, and challenge your friends to guess correctly.

Each team has a designated performer each round, who is given something like a movie or book title, a specific actor or celebrity, and more.

That person then needs to try to get their team to correctly guess the item without the ability to use any kind of words or sounds.

Charades is an ideal choice for party boat games, as it is perfect for energetic groups who enjoy interactive games and are not afraid to get a little silly.

Nautical Pictionary

Combine artistry and guesswork in Nautical Pictionary.

Draw maritime-themed items on a whiteboard or paper while others attempt to identify what you’ve sketched.

The game functions similarly to charades in that you need to get your team to correctly identify the item without using words or sounds.

Also similar to charades, Pictionary has a tendency to devolve into something hilarious and memorable as certain things just can’t be explained through pictures.

Nautical Pictionary is one of the best boat games, whether you are artistically inclined or not.

Often, those who are not artistically inclined generate the most laughs and get the most people excited about joining in.

Shipwrecked

Let your imagination run wild in Shipwrecked.

Pretend the boat is stranded, and take turns presenting your creative survival plans.

The game can be decided by a group determination or by a single judge, and each plan needs to be pitched convincingly as if each participant were a lawyer defending a client.

To extend the game and keep things interesting, choose a specific set of items available in each scenario and ask everyone to get creative with what they have in each round.

Shipwrecked perfectly fits team players and individuals who excel in imaginative scenarios.

Poetry Slam Contest

Exercise your poetic side and your competitive edge with a Poetry Slam Contest.

Take turns reciting or creating short poems that capture the essence of a given topic, with a judge or series of judges determining which is the best poem.

To keep things interesting, ask participants to create a poem about a random topic each time, such as dolphins or sunburn.

The Poetry Slam Contest is a lot of fun as long as everyone is game, and it will almost assuredly end in hilariously bad attempts at poetry and just maybe a beautiful revelation if you’re lucky enough.

Engage in a boat-themed bingo game with Boat Bingo.

Create bingo cards featuring boat and water-related items, and mark them off as you spot them. 

Boat Bingo is a great option for those who love observation and friendly rivalry games without getting too physically adventurous or intellectually rigorous.

Captain’s Orders

Bring humor into the mix with Captain’s Orders.

Designate someone as the “captain” who gives quirky and humorous orders, and players must follow in the same rule style as ‘Simon Says.’

If the captain says, ‘Captain’s orders: touch your knees,’ everyone must touch their knees.

If the captain does not begin the command with ‘captain’s orders’ and someone does it anyway, they walk the plank (or just take a seat).

Captain’s Orders is an excellent choice for those who enjoy light-hearted silliness.

The added walk-the-plank challenge makes for some high-stakes adventure.

Infuse your boat party with music through karaoke.

Each person takes a turn singing along to a selected song, ideally with a microphone and a sound system, although that is not required to fully enjoy the game.

To make things interesting, designate judges that will judge based on the vocal performance and the showmanship.

Karaoke is a great game for anyone looking to get quite silly and most likely embarrass themselves along the way—an additional rule that only nautical-themed songs are allowed could be added!

Here are some ideas:

• “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding
• “Take Me to the River” by Al Green
• “The River” by Bruce Springsteen
• “Sailing” by Christopher Cross
• “Ship to Wreck” by Florence + The Machine
• “Row, Row, Row Your Boat”
• “A Sailor Went to Sea”
• “Baby Shark”

Tidal Would You Rather

Add an aquatic twist to the classic game with Tidal Would You Rather.

Take turns asking sea-inspired questions, all related to the water, forcing each person to make a difficult choice between two unfavorable options.

For example, someone will be asked, ‘ Would you rather jump off that 10-foot cliff into the water or swim back to shore?’

The questions can get increasingly twisted, forcing people to stretch their limits of what they can see themselves doing in comparison to an even worse option.

We have a list of clean would you rather questions as well as those designed for friends, best friends , couples , and girls .

Maritime Whisper Down the Lane

Test your listening skills and comprehension with Maritime Whisper Down the Lane.

The first person whispers a water-based story,, such as a shipwreck or a boat race, and the listener must then whisper the story to the next person.

While it may seem relatively straightforward, by the time the story reaches the last person on the boat, you may be shocked to discover what it has become after all the little misunderstandings along the way.

Whisper Down the Lane is a great game for kids, but it can be just as fun for adults attempting to decipher incredibly quiet whispers.

Never Have I Ever

Dive into revealing stories with Never Have I Ever.

Share maritime-themed experiences and tales in this revealing game.

If you don’t have enough of those, you can always adjust the game to include any stories at all.

Each person holds ten fingers in the air, and the first person starts the game by stating something they have never done, such as night swimming or surfing.

Never Have I Ever is suited for anyone brave enough to admit to whatever comes up.

The stated activities tend to get a little racy and shocking, depending on who is playing.

Because of the tendency for inappropriate topics for children, this may be best enjoyed as a party game for adults unless you remember to stay silly and child-appropriate.

For prompts for this game, check our list of “never have I ever” questions for girls , friends, best friends , and couples .

Try next: Cocktail Party Games for Adults .

Physical Activities Off the Boat

Cannonball contest.

Make a splash in the Cannonball Contest.

Compete to create the biggest splash with your cannonball jump into the water.

Judges determine the winner in each round.

The Cannonball Contest is best suited for energetic jumpers and those who love a bit of friendly competition. It is a great option if you are looking for free boat games, as all you need is a good place to jump.

Water Basketball

Water basketball adds the challenge of navigating through the water while trying to play a relatively traditional basketball game.

The rules can be as specific to an actual game as you like, whether that means a 5-on-5 match or a game of H-O-R-S-E.

To begin, get an inflatable basketball hoop or get one attached to the boat somehow.

The game can be played in a half-court format, with a designated back-court and each team competing to get the ball in the hoop by all means necessary.

Anyone looking for exercise and rigorous and entertaining competition should find the proper equipment and play water basketball.

Like basketball? Try our exciting NBA Trivia Quiz .

Water Volleyball

Dive into some physical activity with Water Volleyball.

Play a friendly game of volleyball in the water, embracing the challenges of buoyancy while also attempting to get the volleyball over a net without touching the water or anyone touching it twice.

Relaxing Activities on or off the Boat

Seascape sketching.

Capture the beauty around you in Seascape Sketching.

Bring sketch pads and pencils to create artistic representations of the picturesque scenes on the water.

Seascape Sketching is a perfect activity for artists and nature lovers who are looking for something that is not competitive or high-energy and would much rather sit back and relax for an hour in front of a canvas.

Floating Yoga

Find tranquility with Floating Yoga.

Practice yoga poses on the boat’s stable surface, surrounded by the soothing sounds of water.

For an additional challenge, take the yoga into the water and see if you can recreate some poses while submerged to your neck.

Floating Yoga is a fitting option for yoga enthusiasts and anyone looking for a relaxing activity while lounging on the water.

Final Thoughts

We hope these boat party game ideas set the tides of laughter for your lively gatherings on and off-board.

If you have more creative suggestions or want to share tales of your nautical escapades, feel free to share them in the comments below. 

Our Vacation Games

• Beach Games For Adults
• Boat Party Games
• Camping Games For Adults
• Car Games For Adults
• Campfire Questions
• Camping Questions
• Camping Trivia Quiz
• Cocktail Party Game s f o r A d u l t s
• Football Games For Adults
• Pool Games For Adults
• Music Quizzes
• Trivia Quizzes

Is there a themed quiz you’d like us to make? Tell us in the comments or  contact us .

Craig is a freelance writer, husband, and dad based in Philadelphia. He enjoys writing about new games as well as old classics from his own childhood.

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9 Family-Friendly Boat Party Game Ideas

For most of us, boating is a recreational activity . Sure, there's an exception for professional fisherman, cargo tanker crews and members of the Navy. But even they might love recreational boating with family and friends in their free time.

Recreational boating is a far cry from boating for work and national security. In other words, it's supposed to be fun. But merely motoring around on a boat all day might not be some people's idea of fun. 

Kids, and adults, tend to get bored if there's no activity to do aside from sit on the boat and look at the water. Even for those who love all things nautical, and are perfectly content to sit peacefully at the helm or on the deck , there's no reason not to make each aquatic outing even more enjoyable for guests aboard.

With a few great boat party game ideas , you can make your next trip out on the bay, downriver or across the lake one of your most enjoyable excursions yet.

First: How to Stay Safe When Playing Boat Party Games

Being on a boat isn't an inherently dangerous activity at all, provided you and everyone else aboard knows the basics of safety, uses good common sense and watches out for each other.

Certain activities that might be very low risk on land can be more dangerous on a boat, including party games of all sorts.

Since this includes many of the boat party game ideas we'll be talking about here, be sure to follow summer boating tips and all the usual boating safety rules, including  keeping an emergency kit on board .

Flotation Devices at the Ready

So, you and the gang are enjoying a water skiing competition or a lively game of Twister (much harder on a boat, by the way, and potentially much more hilarious). Any of these boat party games might lead to someone falling unexpectedly into the water.

When you're playing any games near water, you better have flotation devices and line at the ready, if not already strapped onto each person.

Safety in Numbers

Your boat, whether it's an 18-foot pontoon boat or a 72-foot yacht, is rated to safely accommodate a certain amount of people. That is to say, there's a maximum number of people to keep in mind. Don't go over that limit. It's all fun and games until the boat tilts over or capsizes and people fall overboard.

Moderation Is Key

Let's not be naive and pretend people never drink alcohol on boats. In fact, many people drink more booze aboard a boat than back on land. Even if the games are family-friendly, and you've got the kids around, there's nothing saying you can't bring along a few beers.

If you're staying moderate in your imbibing, and you're making sure that at least one person remains sober to steer the boat and help out in case of an emergency, a bit of drinking is fine.

Even so, everything in moderation. Even a drinking game can be enjoyed in moderation: Just take smaller sips, dilute the cocktails or choose a very low-ABV beer. You'll be able to enjoy your boat games longer, avoid awkward situations and stave off seasickness .

The Great Boat Races

So, you're on a motor boat and the boat is out on the water. All you need for a great time is a tube or a pair of waterskis. Or a wakeboard. Or a kneeboard. Or anything else that floats and can be towed by a boat. Not much fun trying this stuff at the dock, FYI. I tried. A tube tied to a dock or anchored at the shore just isn't the same.

While towing two wakeboarders,  water skiers  or tubers at the same time can be dangerous unless those holding the line are quite skilled, you can use time trial style races to have lots of fun.

If you're going with a tube, I'd recommend the Airhead AHBL-12 Blast tube (check price on Amazon)  because four handles are better than two for hanging on.

1. Fastest on the Water

Pick two points - such as anchor buoys , other boats or points on shore - and see which paired captain and water skier (or tuber, or wakeboarder, etc.) can span the distance fastest without anyone falling over.

2. Hang Ten or Twenty or More

This one can bring out the devil in the person at the wheel of the boat. Tow your water skier or tuber across a veritable obstacle course of anchor buoys or wake waves in an attempt to make 'em fall and see which tuber or boarder stays up the longest.

Target Practice

If there's one thing that's agreed on pretty much universally, it's that trying to throw one thing into another thing is fun. From carnival game stalls to professional basketball courts, we humans spend a lot of time trying to hit targets (nets, cans or dartboards) with objects we throw.

As it turns out, this can be even more fun in the water while anchored out . And those diving tosses certainly hurt less when you land in water, too!

3. Bombs Away

Trail a tube with a cutout center behind your boat and see who can toss the most balls into it accurately. Now, the Airhead AHBL-12 Blast tube  I recommended earlier won't quite work for this since there's no hole cut out in the middle.

Instead, go for a simpler standard floating tube like the classic Tube in a Box (check price on Amazon) . You can use soccer balls, volleyballs or whatever you'd like, just so long as it floats.

Fon't forget to collect all the balls when you're done. Another option is to get yourself an inflatable cornhole game (check price on Amazon)  that's made to be played on the water.

4. Catch a Wave

What's more fun than trying to toss a ball into a tube? Trying to toss a ball to a human who's being zipped along over the water  on a tube. Or on waterskis, if the sportsman or sportswoman is coordinated enough to ski using one hand and make a one-handed catch with the other.

Most of us had better stick with the tube. For the game above, Bombs Away and for this game of catch, try the classic Champion Sports Rhino Skin Playground Ball (check price on Amazon) .

The classic elementary school balls are bright and easy to see, they float and they're soft enough not to hurt on impact. They were designed for kids, after all.

Board and Card Games on Board

Here's a news flash: Fun games are fun wherever you choose to play them. That means that the very same board games you love playing on land can also be quite enjoyable to play when you and your friends or family are out on your boat.

It can be rather frustrating when all the pieces go sliding off the chessboard right before your successful King's Gambit or when your round of Texas Hold 'Em ends up with a soggy mess of ruined cards thanks to some unexpected waves.

So, get creative and take advantage of some truly clever travel games that are on the market.

5. Magnetic Chess  or Magnetic Checkers

You can find a plethora of chessboards and checkerboards that use magnetic pieces and are perfect for playing with on rolling waves. Often, these games are one and the same, with both chess and checkers pieces included.

For example, here's a neat 3-in-1, travel game board that comes with chess, checkers and backgammon pieces to play with (check price on Amazon) .

6. Travel Scrabble

This is a classic word game, and my personal favorite game on land or sea . It's available in a compact package that uses all plastic components (no worries about waves) and with pieces that click into place (no worries about that word with the X and J slipping off the board).

7. Plastic Playing Cards

Did you know that there are waterproof playing cards (check price on Amazon) ? Well, there are. In fact, there are lots of different options out there.

The most fun option is probably the Swimline Game Station set (check price on Amazon) which is an inflatable game set that comes with a game table, chairs with cup holders and waterproof playing cards. 

Get a deck, and you'll always be ready for poker, rummy or Go Fish (errant sea spray or a spilled rum and Coke notwithstanding).

Check Price on Amazon - Better Boat's cleaning wipes are petroleum-free to clean and protect seats, consoles, steering wheels, vinyl and upholstery. They also leave a fresh lemony scent.  

Song and Dance

Music makes the party, right? Well, why not let music make the boat trip more fun, too?

8. Maritime Karaoke

Karaoke is always fun whether you're out at a bar, in a friend's basement or out on the high seas. In the latter arrangement, no one can leave the room when your song comes on, either. 

  You can get an affordable and portable karaoke machine (check price on Amazon)  that will make your next boating trip a musical odyssey, or you can download a karaoke app to your phone or tablet.

9. Theme Music

Your boat trip will be all the more fun if you and your fellow sailors pick theme music to underscore the adventure. And we're not talking about some seaman's ditty, we're talking about a mix of disco hits, 50s music, 60s rock or 90s grunge.

Plan ahead and make a great playlist and your time out on the water will be that much more memorable and fun.

How to Start Playing Your Boat Party Games

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40 Easy Boat Theme Party Ideas

Updated on: Sep 01, 2024

Boat theme parties can be a lot of fun to throw. Invite your guests to an awesome day at sea with the right nautical flair to make your boat theme party awesome! Using our tips that cover everything from boat theme invitations to party favors, you’re sure to host the best nautical party your friend group has ever seen!

Boat Theme Party Decorations

For a boat theme party, your party space should look as if you are at sea. There are so many options that it may be hard to choose your perfect nautical theme party decorations! That is why we have compiled a list of sailing party supplies and ideas below for your nautical theme celebration.

1. Boat Theme Pennant Flags

A great sailboat decoration idea is to purchase nautical theme pennant banners to hang in your party space. You can hang them on the walls or make them 3D by stringing them across the ceiling.

When decorating for your party it is important to decorate with certain colors to keep your party theme. For example, use colors like white and blue when decorating to keep up with the ocean and sailor theme. Use these colors when you purchase tableware, ribbons, balloons, and streamers.

3. Wall Décor

One way to decorate your party walls would be by hanging life preservers and/or plastic anchors around the room to fit the boat theme. Another perfect decoration would be to drape fish netting from the ceiling and on the walls to add to the nautical theme.

4. Boat Theme Party Photo Props

The perfect accessories to match your boat-themed photo shoot would be an assortment of nautical photo booth props . These aquatic-inspired cut-outs are sure to make for some fun and memorable pictures. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, you could purchase the digital PDF versions of these props and print/assemble them yourself!

5. Bubble Machine

Set up an automatic bubble machine to release bubbles throughout the party. This will be just like the air bubbles from the submarine under the water. Placing bubbles on the tables will also encourage guests to pick up the bottle and create bubbles themselves.

6. Boat Theme Party Table Toppers

A great way to bring the whole theme together would be with nautical table toppers that are sure the wow your guests. These centerpieces are eye-catching, and can even be used to number your tables so guests can their seats easier!

Boat Theme Party Favors

The easiest way to get your guests to remember their fun time at your bash is to give them nautical theme party favors to take home with them. That is why we have compiled a list of sailing theme party giveaways for you to give out at your party that is sure to make your guests remember you for a lifetime!

7. Nautical Goodie Bag

A fully stuffed boat theme goodie bag is always a great choice when it comes to party favors for your guests. Items that you can put in a nautical goodie bag can range from fish theme pencils and erasers, fish gummies, bubbles, blue candies, mini kaleidoscopes, you name it. Use nautical theme goodie bags or tinted blue goodie bags to represent the ocean water.

8. Beach Goodies

Keeping with the nautical theme, why not give your guests beach theme favors ? These can be sand pails, sand shovels, and beach towels. If you’re trying to save money give one bucket or beach favor to each family that comes to the party instead of each to one guest.

9. Sand Dollar

Buy toy sand dollars to use as place cards for your guests. To do this get a paint pen or some sort of marker and write the guest’s name on the sand dollar. Then, set it at their table and allow them to take it home as a favor!

10. Keychain

An anchor keychain is a simple but practical party favor to give your guests. It's useful, and will always remind your guests of the fun time they had at your boat theme party.

11. Fun Sailor’s Caps Ideas

Give each guest a sailor’s cap or captain’s hat . You can hand these out at the beginning of the party for guests to wear throughout the night and to get everyone in a nautical spirit!

Boat Theme Party Food and Drinks

You don’t want your guests to feel like they are stranded at sea with nothing to eat! Therefore, we have compiled a list of nautical themes party menu ideas for you to serve.

12. Drink Picks

Try to serve drinks that evoke the sea at your party. Cocktails like Mai Tais, Pina Coladas, and Margaritas will all remind your guests of sunny days spent by the ocean or poolside and will be perfect for your party. A cute way to serve a drink would be with on-theme sea cocktail picks .

13. Apple boats

Make boat theme snacks for your guests by cutting apple slices and cheese. The apple slice is the bottom of the boat and then the cheese is the sail. The mast can be made out of a pretzel or a toothpick. This will be a menu winner.

14. Shrimp Cocktail

A shrimp cocktail is a great boat theme appetizer. Make sure to have plenty of dipping sauce to serve with it.

15. Seafood

An obvious choice for your nautical theme party – seafood! Your guests will be expecting seafood so go all out. You can serve salmon, mahi-mahi, shrimp, anything that dwells beneath the waves! You can also add other food items like pasta and stuffing so your guests can mix and match. Having a variety of under the seafood will bring your theme to life.

• Mussels – Mussels are a must for a sailboat meal.
• Breaded Fish – For a lighter seafood taste try breading fish, such as halibut or salmon, and serving it with a tasty sauce.
• Oysters – Oysters are a favorite seafood option. Arrange them on a platter for your guests to eat.
• Steamed Lobster – Serve steamed lobster with steamed vegetables and baked potatoes for a traditional New England seafood entrée.
• Lobster – If you are having a formal party or if you have the budget for it, serve your guests lobster as the main meal.
• Crab Legs – Crab legs are another excellent seafood option.

16. Pizza Rafts

Buy pizza bagels at your local grocery store and say that they’re life preservers!

17. Floating Fish

Looking to entertain the kids at your party? Grab some blue Jell-O and put it in a bowl. Then, get fish gummies from the grocery store and place them in the Jell-O. It will look like fish that are swimming in the ocean.

18. Crab Croissants

Did you ever notice how similar croissants are to crabs? Simply fix edible candy eyeballs in place on the croissants with icing, and voila! Your croissants have been converted into crabs in an instant. The world is your oyster when it comes to fillings. As a savory option, go with staples like ham, cheeses, and veggies. For those with a sweet craving, add jelly or chocolate.

19. Cookies

For dessert, serve cookies cut into nautical shapes like sailboats and starfish. If you want to make your own cookies, boat theme cookie cutters are a must!

20. Boat Theme Cake Ideas

No party is complete without a cake. A great idea to create a nautical cake is baking a two-layer round cake and cutting a hole in the middle. Frost it with wide alternating red and white stripes like a life preserver. Another idea would be to theme your cake to make it look like sand. Buy some beige or brown icing to ice your cake to give it a nice base. Then add some beige sprinkles or crushed graham crackers on top of the frosting. It will give the “sand” texture.

Beware of having too many unhealthy sugary snacks! Refer to our recommendations for health-conscious alternatives!

Boat Theme Party Games and Activities

Nautical themes can also evoke lots of different emotions from people. So try and evoke an emotion of fun and excitement by playing these awesome sea boat theme activities at your next nautical theme party!

21. Temporary Tattoos

Help your guests feel like actual sailors with a temporary tattoo station . Make sure to have nautical tattoos such as anchors and palm trees.

22. Boat Theme Party Photo Backdrop

A great way to make permanent memories of your party is to set up a photo booth section complete with a boat-themed photo backdrop for all of your guests to take pictures in front of. It is an easy and affordable way to make lasting memories that can be looked back on for years to come.

23. Don’t Say…

To begin, give each player a bag of treasure. The treasure can be plastic or chocolate coins, fake jewels, etc. Then, choose several words such as beach, yacht, nautical, ocean, waves, or boat. Write them onto a large whiteboard or piece of paper and hang them up. If any player says one of these words after the game has begun, they must give up a piece of their treasure to whoever called them on it. Award the player who has the most treasure at the end of the game.

24. Sand Bottles

If you’re looking for a fun activity to do with the younger kids at your party why not have them make sand art ? To do this, set aside a table at your party with bottles and different colored sand. Then allow the children to put the sand in the bottle in any sort of design they want. Have them take it home as a favor!

25. Crab Race

Have your guests split up into at least two teams. Then have them crab walk from one end of the room to the other. Once they return the next person on the team must go. The first team that has every member finish wins!

26. Obstacle Course

Set up an obstacle course at your venue for the kids or adults to maneuver through. To make it fit your theme set up a bell at the end so the first person to finish can ring the “captain’s bell”.

27. Nautical Tug-O-War

Split your guests into two groups and give them a rope . Then, have them play tug of war and tie a flag around the middle of the rope. The first team to get the flag over a specific area is the winner!

28. Treasure Hunt

Give each party guest a 1 foot piece of rope and give instructions for a variety of nautical knots like a reef knot or rolling hitch. Set a time restriction for visitors to tie their own knots. This is a great icebreaker and could also make as an excellent party favors that guests can play with at home.

29. Tie the Knot

Boat theme party supplies, 30. nautical theme plates and napkins.

In order to stay on theme, you will need appropriate dishware to serve with the food for your guests. Nautical theme plates and napkins are the perfect addition to your party supplies list because they bring the whole aesthetic of the party together.

31. Table Confetti

Use miniature nautical-themed anchors and paper as table confetti to jazz up the look of your food or sitting tables. Alternatively, if you prefer a more beachy feel, you could add seashells and sand to the tables.

32. Nautical Cupcake Toppers

If you are looking for a way to spice up your dessert presentation, boat-themed cupcake toppers are a perfect choice. Not only do they add a cute addition to your cupcakes, but they can be used to top any type of food you are serving, including fruit bowls, shrimp cocktails, or even a boat-themed cake.

33. Boat Cupcake Stand

If you decide to serve cupcakes at your party, a great way to showcase them would be with a boat theme cupcake stand!

34. Take the Helm

An inflatable boat wheel allows everyone to be a captain and pretend to steer the ship! It's an excellent addition to a nautical photoshoot or just a decoration on the side. It also works nicely as a prop for creative play during a children's party. You could also place one on your cake table to give detail to cake picture shots.

35. Boat Food Party Trays

Boat shaped party food trays make it easy for your guests to serve themselves from the table. And boat-shaped models lend a fun twist to your nautical decor. Two distinct portions at the front and back allow diners to distinguish between a sweet or savory cuisine. And a convenient beverage holder in the center console will keep them hydrated as they socialize.

Boat Theme Party Invitations

Boats are an essential icon for these events, but there are other options as well. Try one of these fun boat theme party invitation ideas.

36. Passport

Create a passport for each of your guests out of cardstock. Write your party information on the inside left flap of the passport. If you have pictures of all of your guests put them on the right side. Add official-looking stamps and seals for greater effect. Alternatively, you can buy premade sets of blank passports if you prefer.

37. Nautical Theme Online Invitations

If you prefer sending your party invites online instead of through the mail, there are plenty of nautical theme online invitations to choose from. You can never go wrong with a blue and white theme!

38. Message in a Bottle

Fill several plastic or glass bottles partway with sand. Write your party information on a piece of paper then roll the paper up and slide it inside the bottle. Close the bottle with a cork and stick a mailing label onto the side. This creative idea is sure to delight your guests with its dramatic flair!

39. Under the Sea

If you want to go for more of an ocean concept for your boat party invitations, try under the sea theme invitations . These invitations are sure to get your guests excited for your party.

40. Cruise Boarding Pass

A fun way to invite your guests to your boat themed party is by sending them cruise boarding pass invitation templates with your party information. Headline the invitations with creative titles like “Set Sail on Your Birthday Cruise”.

Boat Theme Party: Conclusion

With our suggestions, your boat theme party will be off to a great start. But our tips for décor, games, and favors are just that. Use our tips as a stepping-off point and keep the boat party afloat!

Written by Shannyn Apolaro, Jessica Bundy and Aditi Parikh; Contributors: Vanessa Marsocci, Jack Leduc, Mira Hemaidan and Maggie Betros

Aditi Parikh

Knox College

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Maggie Betros

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University of Iowa

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Sail Away to Fun: Nautical Party Ideas for a Maritime Adventure on the High Seas!

If you're looking to host a party that sets sail into a sea of fun and adventure, a nautical-themed gathering is the perfect choice. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, a graduation, or just want an excuse to bring friends and family together, a maritime-themed party is sure to make waves. In this blog post, we'll dive deep into nautical party ideas that will help you create an unforgettable maritime adventure on the high seas.

Setting the Scene

The success of any party begins with the right atmosphere. When it comes to a nautical-themed party, creating the perfect maritime setting is essential. Here's how you can set the scene:  

• Invitations

Start by designing invitations that resemble old treasure maps or ship logs. Use parchment-style paper and add nautical symbols like anchors, steering wheels, and compass roses. Don't forget to include witty phrases like "Chart a course for adventure!" to get your guests excited about the journey ahead.  

• Decorations

Transform your party space into a maritime wonderland. Hang fishnets, lifebuoys, and seashells on the walls. Use navy blue, white, and red as your primary color scheme to evoke a classic nautical vibe. You can also scatter sand or crushed seashells on the floor to mimic the feel of a beach.  

• Table Settings

Set the tables with maritime flair. Choose navy blue and white striped tablecloths, and use rope or jute twine as napkin rings. Place miniature sailboats or lighthouses as centerpieces. For place cards, opt for seashell-shaped holders with each guest's name on them.  

Dress the Part

To fully immerse your guests in the maritime adventure, encourage them to dress in nautical attire. Here are some ideas for dressing the part:  

Captain and Crew: Some guests can come as the captain of the ship, complete with a captain's hat and a navy blazer, while others can dress as crew members with sailor hats and striped shirts.  

Pirates: Invite some guests to embrace their inner pirates with eye patches, bandanas, and plenty of "Ahoy, matey!" greetings.  

Mermaids and Mermen: For a touch of fantasy, some guests can dress as mermaids with seashell bras and flowing, shimmering skirts, while others can be mermen with tridents and scales.  

Nautical Eats and Treats

No party is complete without delicious food and treats. Here's how you can infuse a nautical theme into your menu:  

• Seafood Extravaganza

Serve a seafood feast with options like shrimp cocktail, crab cakes, and fish tacos. Don't forget to offer a variety of dipping sauces and lemon wedges for that extra zing.  

• Nautical-Inspired Desserts

Get creative with your desserts. Craft anchor-shaped cookies, sea-themed cupcakes with edible seashells, and a cake resembling a treasure chest overflowing with edible jewels.  

• Ocean-Inspired Drinks

Serve up refreshing ocean-inspired beverages like blue raspberry lemonade or a signature cocktail like "The Captain's Grog." Don't forget to provide non-alcoholic options for guests of all ages.  

Games and Activities

Keep your guests entertained with nautical-themed games and activities:  

• Treasure Hunt

Organize a treasure hunt where guests follow a series of clues to find hidden "buried treasure." Use pirate-themed props and maps for added authenticity.  

Set up a small pool or basin for miniature boat races. Guests can decorate and race toy boats, competing for the title of the fastest sailor.  

• Nautical Trivia

Test your guests' maritime knowledge with nautical trivia questions and see who can earn the title of "Master of the High Seas."  

Party Favors

Send your guests off with a little piece of the maritime adventure to remember the party by. Some great party favor ideas include:  

Nautical Keychains: Customized keychains with the date of the party and a nautical charm.  

Seashell Soaps: Handcrafted seashell-shaped soaps that smell like the ocean.  

Message in a Bottle: Miniature bottles filled with a personalized thank-you message and some sand or seashells.  

Nautical Playlist

To keep the maritime ambiance going, curate a playlist filled with sea shanties, classic nautical tunes, and ocean-inspired melodies. Songs like "Sailing" by Christopher Cross, "Beyond the Sea" by Bobby Darin, and "Rock the Boat" by Hues Corporation can add the perfect soundtrack to your maritime adventure.  

Creative Photo Booth

Set up a photo booth area with nautical-themed props such as sailor hats, captain's wheel, and lifebuoys. Encourage your guests to take memorable photos that will serve as souvenirs from the high seas adventure. You can even provide a backdrop featuring an ocean or a pirate ship for that extra touch of authenticity.  

Nautical Crafts

For a fun and interactive activity, set up a crafting station where guests can make their own nautical-themed keepsakes. Provide materials for creating friendship bracelets with marine-themed charms or decorating wooden picture frames with seashells and beach glass. This not only keeps your guests engaged but also gives them a unique memento to take home.  

Maritime Movie Marathon

If you have the space, consider setting up an outdoor movie screening with classic maritime films such as "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Finding Nemo," or "Captain Phillips." Provide blankets and popcorn for an enjoyable cinematic experience under the stars.  

Sunset Cruise (Virtual or Real)

If your budget allows, consider taking your guests on a real sunset cruise if you're near the coast. Alternatively, you can organize a virtual sunset cruise experience by streaming a prerecorded video of a serene sea journey on a big screen. Provide drinks and appetizers for a relaxing evening on the "high seas."  

A nautical-themed party is an exciting way to celebrate any occasion and create lasting memories. By paying attention to the details like decorations, costumes, delicious treats, and engaging activities, you can ensure that your maritime adventure on the high seas is a resounding success. For all your nautical party needs, Home & Hoopla Shop is your go-to destination. We offer an incredible selection of nautical-themed decorations, tableware, party favors, and more, ensuring that your event sails smoothly from start to finish.  

Whether you're sailing with pirates, exploring undersea wonders, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze, your nautical party is sure to be a cherished event for all who attend. So, hoist the sails, steer your course, and set off on an unforgettable journey of fun and excitement!

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Elevate Your Special Day with a Themed Boat Party

As you embark on the journey of planning your special celebration, consider the magic that a themed yacht party can bring. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, an anniversary, or a gathering of loved ones for a day of maritime revelry, a yacht celebration promises an experience that transcends the ordinary. For sure, making the time to celebrate your milestones or special occasions will bring you joy and creates lasting memories. While there are countless ways to mark these moments, few can match the fun and enchantment of a boat party.

Picture yourself surrounded by the glistening waters, a gentle sea breeze, and the laughter of loved ones. Does that bring joy to your soul?

So, to make your special day even more special, we created a list of themed yacht parties with you in mind so you can incorporates a specific theme into the overall ambiance, decorations, attire, and activities of your event.

These parties are designed to create a unique and immersive experience for guests, enhancing the celebration with a particular concept or idea. Themed yacht parties can range from elegant and sophisticated affairs to playful and whimsical gatherings, depending on the chosen theme. Some popular themed yacht parties include Nautical/Navy, Tropical Luau, Pirate Adventure, All-White Affair, 80s Retro Cruise, Hollywood Glamour, Under the Stars, Toga Party, Island Escape, Masquerade Ball, Gatsby’s Roaring 20s, Mermaid Fantasy, Tiki Cruise, and Fire and Ice, among others. Each theme adds a distinctive touch to the party, making it a memorable and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

Let the waves carry you to a celebration that’s as unique and extraordinary as you are. Elevate your special day with a fun themed yacht party and create memories that will forever hold a place in your heart.

14 Captivating Boat Party Themes that will make your day unforgettable

To add an extra layer of magic, consider choosing a theme for your maritime celebration. Here are 14 captivating themes that will transform your boat party into an unforgettable adventure.

Nautical/Navy:

Embrace the maritime spirit with classic nautical decorations, sailor outfits, and navy blue and white color schemes.

Tropical Luau:

Transform the boat into a tropical paradise with tiki torches, leis, hula skirts, and vibrant, beach-inspired décor.

Pirate Adventure:

Set sail on a swashbuckling journey with pirate costumes, treasure hunts, and nautical flags fluttering in the wind.

All-White Affair:

Create an elegant and chic atmosphere with an all-white dress code and décor, exuding sophistication against the backdrop of the open sea.

80s Retro Cruise:

Travel back in time with neon colors, leg warmers, and iconic 80s hits to set the mood for a lively and nostalgic party.

Hollywood Glamour:

Roll out the red carpet and let guests channel their inner celebrities for a glitzy, star-studded affair.

Under the Stars:

Make the most of the evening sky with string lights, lanterns, and stargazing for a romantic and enchanting boat party.

Toga Party:

Transport your guests to ancient Rome with flowing togas, laurel wreaths, and Roman-inspired decorations.

Island Escape:

Create an island getaway atmosphere with palm trees, tiki bars, and tropical cocktails, perfect for a relaxing and carefree celebration.

Masquerade Ball:

Add an air of mystery and elegance with masks, formal attire, and opulent decorations for a sophisticated soirée.

Fiesta Mexicana:

Spice things up with vibrant colors, sombreros, and Mexican-inspired cuisine and music for a lively and festive boat party.

Gatsby’s Roaring 20s:

Transport guests to the Jazz Age with flapper dresses, sharp suits, and Art Deco-inspired décor, evoking the glamour of the Great Gatsby era.

Mermaid Fantasy:

Dive into an underwater world with mermaid tails, seashell decorations, and a color palette inspired by the ocean’s hues.

Tiki Cruise:

Infuse the boat with Polynesian vibes, featuring tiki torches, bamboo décor, and tropical drinks, for a relaxed and exotic ambiance.

• Boat Party Planning

Host a Boat Party with These 9 Boat Party Theme Ideas

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Last Updated on September 18, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

If you’re seeking a unique and unforgettable way to bring your loved ones together, hosting a boat party is the perfect answer.

Picture this: a gentle breeze, sparkling waters, and the camaraderie of your closest friends and family members, all aboard a stylish boat rental (thanks, Boatsetter !) To help you start planning your best boat party, we’ve compiled a list of nine themes for a boat party they’ll never forget.

• Nautical extravaganza
• Tropical paradise
• Pirate adventure
• Under the sea
• Gatsby glamor
• Hawaiian luau
• Mardi Gras madness
• All-white party

Got your party hat on? Let’s dive right in.

Boatsetter’s happy to help—Throw your party on a boat rental!

1. Nautical extravaganza

Lean into the magic of being on the water with a Nautical Extravaganza boat party theme. Think navy and white decorations, ropes, and sailor hats. Your guests can dress the part in sailor and captain costumes, or keep it simple with white attire and navy accents.

Whether you’re catering or cooking yourself, fish and chips is a simple classic, as timeless as the nautical theme! And you can spice things up with a signature Captain’s Punch or Blue Lagoon Cocktails.

2. Tropical paradise

Transform your boat into a slice of serenity with a Tropical Paradise boat party. Illuminate your decks with tiki torches, hang vibrant palm leaves, and drape colorful fabrics to recreate the lush allure of a tropical oasis.

Bring this boat party theme to life with Piña Coladas and Mai Tais, served alongside coconut shrimp, Hawaiian BBQ skewers, and a tropical fruit platter!

3. Pirate adventure

Plan a boat party with an adventurous twist when you set sail on a Pirate Adventure. Decorate with treasure chests, rustic maps, and skull-and-crossbones. Your crew can look the part with pirate hats, bandanas, and eye patches. For a fun activity, organize a ship-wide treasure hunt.

We recommend a themed menu with dishes like Buccaneer’s BBQ ribs and “Shiver Me Timbers” Seafood Gumbo. As for drinks, offer Dark ‘n’ Stormy cocktails, made with rum and ginger beer, or mix your own Pirate’s Punch.

4. Under the sea

Dive into the depths with an Under the Sea Fantasy theme. Use shades of blue and green, with shimmering decorations to mimic the ocean’s allure. If your guests want to go all in, encourage them to wear mermaid costumes, pirate costumes, or fish-inspired looks.

Serve up “sea-themed sips”, like an Ocean Breeze, made with blue curaçao and vodka, or a Seashell Spritzer (add edible glitter for an unforgettable sparkle).

5. Gatsby glamor

Gatsby Glamor is a gateway boat party theme idea. You can step back into the roaring twenties with a Gatsby theme, or pick whatever era excites you the most (60s, 70s, 80s, and so on!)

Sticking with Gatsby: infuse your boat with the opulence of the era. We recommend gold accents, Art Deco glamor, feather centerpieces, and a champagne tower. A live jazz band can set the tone of your luxurious affair.

Taste the twenties with a menu of Oysters Rockefeller, cocktail shrimp, and Gatsby-style canapés, complimented with Champagne Cocktails and Sidecars.

6. Neon glow

If you’re hosting a boat party after dark, a Neon Glow theme is the perfect way to light up the night. Illuminate your boat with black lights and fluorescent decorations. Enhance the atmosphere with neon-colored cocktails, glow-in-the-dark games, and upbeat music .

We recommend taking your boat party to the next level with a professional DJ and laser light show!

7. Hawaiian luau

A Hawaiian Luau is another classic boat party theme idea. Your guests can kick back in Hawaiian shirts, grass skirts, and flower leis. Colorful flowers, tiki torches, and bamboo décor will transform your boat into an island escape.

A Tropical Breeze Cooler is the perfect signature cocktail for your Luau. Mix coconut rum (or coconut water for a non-alcoholic option) with pineapple juice, orange juice, cranberry juice, and a splash of grenadine for a swirl of tropical flavors.

8. Mardi Gras madness

Capture the vivacious energy of New Orleans with the Mardi Gras Madness boat party theme. Bedeck your boat with traditional Mardi Gras colors (purple, green, and gold) and encourage your guests to wear masks, beads, and feathers to bring this theme alive. You can curate a festive ambiance by hiring a jazz band and serving traditional Cajun cuisine.

9. All-white party

For our last boat party theme idea, we recommend throwing a White Party. White parties are the perfect way to create casual elegance. Decorate your vessel with whites, creams, and soft ambient lighting. Guests should wear all white to fit the theme and create a fully immersive experience.

Top it off with a menu of white-themed drinks and dishes, like White Russians, Peach Bellinis, lobster rolls, and caprese skewers.

On hosting the best boat party

These nine captivating boat party theme ideas offer endless possibilities for a remarkable and memorable experience. The intimate setting of a boat provides the ideal backdrop for you and your loved ones to celebrate. Want help planning your boat party? Read these posts:

• 9 Best Boat Snacks
• How to Plan a Boat Trip
• 7 Things NOT to Bring on a Boat

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