Thinking about a party on a yacht this summer? Maybe you are trying to plan an unprecedented bash. Well, imagine your next milestone birthday, anniversary, wedding, or corporate event on a boat? Definitely epic.
Hosting your party on a yacht certainly is an exceptional and memorable experience, but as the planner, it involves a lot. We’ve featured things you’ll want to consider if you would like to cast away for your next celebration.
1. Determine Guest Count and Budget
As you would do for any party you are hosting, think about your guest list and how much you have to spend. Educate yourself on approximate costs for a yacht event to see if it is a feasible option. You may want to try to ask around or look up online for events on boats to get educated. EventUp is a leading directory of party venues and is a great place to start. You can search for boats and get a better idea of the cost and size.
2. Choose a Right-sized Boat
Once you know your guest invitation count, you can then limit your choices to the yachts that are just the right size. Remember you’ll need to consider crew members and servers in your numbers. You’ll want to consider the seating area, dining options, restrooms, and if there is room for a dance floor.
If you have a large event, this large 228-foot vessel called the SeaFair in Miami, in Florida can host elegant events for up to 600 guests.
3. Take a Tour
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, take a tour of these vessels so that you can better envision your celebration. You’ll want to come with questions including:
- What are the specifics around the rental fee? How many hours are included? Any docking or other fees? Is gratuity included?
- Where does the boat go? How often will it be on the water versus docked?
- What can be arranged for food and drink? Catering?
- What is the cancellation policy if inclement weather or other reasons?
- What decorations and music are allowed?
- Are children or pets allowed on board?
- Is there heating or air conditioning on the boat? Are there covered or below-deck areas that guests can access?
- What items should guests bring? Special footwear recommendations?
- What safety measures are in place? Who are the crew and staff and what is their experience?
4. Choose the Food and Boat Drinks
The menu served at any party is a very important aspect and sets the scene for your party. However, serving, eating, and drinking on a moving boat isn’t the same as if you are on land. Some boat parties are able to handle full meals while others may only be suitable for light hors d’oeuvres. You’ll also want to consider how long you have the yacht and your budget. While many celebrations include alcohol, remember to not overserve your guests.
5. Cater to your Guests
As the host of the boat party, make sure you give some thoughts about your guests’ concerns and needs. Some passengers may experience motion sickness and others may be fearful. Other guests may not be as steady on their feet while on a boat. Make sure you appoint some people to help you and the crew make these guests feel safe and comfortable.
5. Layout your Party
Because sometimes yacht space is smaller or not as open as conventional event spaces, you’ll want to consider seating and layout. Plan locations for things like decor, food, drinks, and more. Consider the flow of people moving around the boat so that it is optimal and safe.
In San Diego, check out EventUp customer Triton Charters which is the largest catamaran in the area. It hosts events of a variety of styles and sizes. It even has a built-in water slide!
6. Choose your Theme
Whether you are planning a bridal shower, birthday, team outing, or wedding, think about how you’ll bring your celebration together with a theme. You can bring it all together with invitations, decor, food, music (yacht rock, anyone?), and more. Make sure you speak to the event staff, the captain, and the crew about your plans ahead of time so that you are clear on any restrictions.
7. Hire the Professionals
As part of your yacht selection, make certain the boat is equipped with a professional crew. You also want to make sure the servers you hire have the experience and knowledge to serve upon a yacht. Ultimately, this will ensure your guests will be safe and have a wonderful time at your boat party.
Ready to Party on the Water?
If you want to explore a yacht for your party, check out EventUp! We have filters to sort venues by a variety of parameters including a boat as a venue type. You’ll be sure to provide the epic party of the summer.
