Want to host your wedding on a boat? Not only are boats cost-effective venues, but they're a romantic, unique, and memorable way to tie the knot (pun intended). Today's blog post offers eight tips for planning a wedding on a boat. Plus, some of our favorite on-the-water venues.
8 Tips for Planning a Wedding on a Boat
Interested in hosting weddings on a boat? All you have to do is follow these steps:
1. Limit Your Invitation List
If you opt to have your wedding on a boat, you will be limited in the number of people you can invite. While the exact number of guests depends on the specific boat, most boat rentals accommodate 10 to 20 people. (And no – you can't exceed that limit.) Therefore, getting married on a boat is better suited for couples looking to have smaller, more intimate celebrations.
2. Decide On the Type of Boat
There are a variety of boats you can host a wedding or party on. Depending on your guest list and vision, one boat option will likely be better than others.
- Yacht Weddings: Yacht weddings offer tremendous views. However, many states have regulations regarding yacht rentals for events and/or guest count limits.
- Charter Boat Weddings: You'll need to ensure your charter boat rental accommodates your guest list and specific needs. You'll also need insurance. Keep in mind that charter boats often have specific timeframes for departing a port or marina. Therefore, you'll have to ensure those align with your schedule.
- Cruise Weddings: Planning a wedding on a cruise ship means you're on a much larger vessel – allowing you to accommodate more guests. However, there might also be guests that aren't a part of your wedding party. Therefore, this might not be the best option if privacy is important to you.
3. Plan for Bad Weather
If you're planning a wedding on the water, you need to prepare for the possibility of inclement weather. (Don't forget, rain on your wedding day is traditionally good luck.) An easy way to do this is to have a covered area on the boat that can keep guests out of the rain. Additionally, consider renting a backup pavilion on land (or another indoor venue) to continue the festivities if the weather doesn't cooperate.
Read Next: Rainy Day Boating Tips
4. Decide If Your Ceremony or Reception (or Both!) Will Take Place On Board
Just because your wedding is on a boat doesn't mean everything has to be on the sea. Many couples will tie the knot on land and set sail for their reception, while others do the opposite! Because ceremonies require less space, you might consider having yours on board with your closest friends and family. Then, you can meet the rest of your guests for a reception back at port.
5. Plan a Nautical Menu
If you're getting married on the water, it only makes sense to plan a nautical-themed menu. Generally, that looks like incorporating local seafood and ocean-inspired cocktails. However, your wedding planner can help with this!
Additionally, check out our guide on How to Plan a Menu for Your Next Boat Meal.
6. Determine Whether You'll Set Sail or Stay Docked
Having a wedding on a boat doesn't necessarily mean you have to set sail. And many couples have hosted beautiful weddings without ever leaving port. Not only does staying docked combat choppy waters and strong currents, but it can prevent potential seasickness for your guests.
7. Have a Dress Code
Enacting a dress code can help your guests feel comfortable on the water. Instead of requiring black tie attire, allow your guests to wear more casual shirts and dresses. Additionally, your female guests might be more comfortable in flats or wedges instead of high heels. Finally, remind your guests to pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light jacket.
8. Consider Your Overall Guest Experience
When hosting a wedding on a boat, it's essential to think about your overall guest experience. Consider details like wheelchair access and restrooms. Additionally, you might want to hand out hats, fans, or light blankets as needed.
Potential Venues for Weddings on a Boat
Now that you know how to plan a wedding on a boat, where should you host? Well, here are some of our favorite on-the-water wedding venues:
- The Carolina Belle in Charleston, South Carolina
- Moshulu in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- The Lady Washington in Aberdeen, Washington
- Endless Summer in Brunswick Islands, North Carolina
- Sophisticated Lady in Chicago, Illinois
- Sun Dream Yacht in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Lake Geneva Cruise Line in Lake Geneva, Washington
- City Cruises in Norfolk, Virginia
- Savannah Riverboat Cruises in Savannah, Georgia
- Triton Charter in San Diego, California
- Majestic by Atlantic Cruises in Honolulu, Hawaii
Conclusion: Bring Your Boat Wedding to Life
If you have a wedding on a boat idea, we hope today's blog post helps you bring it to fruition! If you liked what you read, check out our website's Articles & Inspiration section for more guides like this one.
