Let's face it, eating a delicious meal on the water takes your boat day to the next level. Whether bringing grilled meats and seafood or charcuterie boards and veggie trays, dining on the water is a luxury every boater should experience.
The best part? Planning a menu for a boat ride is easier than you think. Keep scrolling to learn what food to eat on a boat and some helpful onboard dining tips.
How to Plan a Menu for a Boat Meal
Keep these tips in mind when planning your next boat meal:
1. Remember to Eat Prior
While planning a menu for a boat ride is doable, it's best if your guests aren't completely famished. Before setting sail, ensure all boaters eat a light, healthy breakfast to avoid seasickness.
Read Next: 5 Ways to Prevent Seasickness
2. Use Your Space Wisely
We don't recommend bringing a seven-piece cookware set on board. Therefore, you'll want to prepare as much as you can ahead of time – pasta, chicken, potato salad, taco meat, etc. (Pack pre-made food in lockable containers so the lids don't pop off when you hit a wave.) Then, you'll only need to bring one skillet, one pot, and enough cups, plates, and utensils for everyone on board.
3. Stay Away From Glass
Being on the water means being in constant motion. Because glass shatters easily, we recommend leaving it at the dock. Instead, opt for aluminum cans or transfer your liquids into portable tumblers.
4. Pack Mess-Free Snacks
Certain snacks are messier than others, and we always recommend bringing the least messy snacks on board. Clean(er) snacks for the boat include trail mix, granola bars, pre-cut cheese and meat, pre-sliced fruits and vegetables, pre-made sandwiches, prepared salads, and other similar items.
Similarly, avoid messy foods like chocolate or ice cream that are prone to melting. We also advise against acidic, greasy, or spicy foods that make you feel lethargic or nauseous. Additionally, avoid dark-tinted beverages (like red wine or coffee) that can spill and stain your boat's upholstery.
5. Handhelds for the Win
While it can be tempting to try and prepare an elaborate meal of seafood, handhelds will be your best friend when it comes to planning a menu for a boat meal. (Think: sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers, etc.) Individually packed meals are less of a risk of flying away in the wind or spilling everywhere.
6. Pack a Cooler
Packing a separate, insulated cooler is the best way to keep your perishables from, well, perishing. (It also serves as additional seating when needed!) Use plenty of ice packs to keep temperatures cool, as loose ice often creates a soggy mess.
7. Make Sure to Grill Safely
Investing in a grill for your boat will take your seaside picnics to another level. Portable electric or propane grills are ideal for boaters. Additionally, consider investing in a boat grill mount for stability in rougher waters.
Our favorite grilling options include hot dogs, hamburgers, kabobs, chicken, shrimp, fish, vegetables, and more. (However, the possibilities are truly endless!) Make sure to wait to fire up the grill until the boat is anchored or docked. And, of course, keep children and pets away from the action.
Read Next: Tips for Grilling on a Boat
8. Last But Not Least, Don't Litter!
Nearly every delicious meal ends in a heaping pile of garbage. Therefore, you'll need to make a plan for packing up used utensils, plates, food scraps, wrappers, etc. Usually, a large trash bag does the trick. The faintest gust of wind can send any of these items overboard – and you don't want to litter!
Simple Onboard Recipes
Wondering what to eat on a boat? Here are a few of our favorite onboard recipes:
Protein-Packed Pasta Salad
This protein-packed pasta salad is bursting with protein and fresh vegetables. Plus, it's topped off with a light and refreshing dressing.
California Turkey Wrap
This healthy turkey spinach wrap is filled with turkey, bacon, avocado, tomato, and lettuce – making for an easy, satisfying, and mess-free lunch on the water!
Mango Black Bean Salad
This refreshing summer salad is full of delicious protein and fiber, keeping you feeling fuller for longer! Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with crackers or chips.
What to Eat on a Boat
Eating on the water is one of the most enjoyable parts of a boating adventure. After reading today's article, we hope you have a better idea of what to eat on a boat (and how to go about doing so).
As experts in the boating industry, Discover Boating is the ultimate resource for excursion planning, boating tips, and other nautical resources. Check out our boating blog for more boating guides like this one.
