Tailgating has long been a tradition for sports enthusiasts, with fans setting up shop near stadiums for food, fun, and camaraderie before a big game. But what if you could take the party to the water? Enter boatgating—tailgating on your boat. It’s the perfect blend of boating and sports enthusiasm, with a unique spin that brings the fun to lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. Whether you’re heading to a lakeside sporting event or just want to create your own waterside celebration, boatgating is a memorable experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore five tips for successful boatgating, including essential gear, preparation strategies, and price points for the best equipment to make your boatgating experience one for the books.
1. Pick the Right Location
Why It Matters:
Location is key when it comes to boatgating. You want to ensure your boat is near the action, whether that’s near a lakeside stadium, concert venue, or simply in a beautiful anchorage with other boaters. The goal is to anchor or dock close enough to enjoy the event while keeping the boat steady.
Considerations:
- Research Ahead: Check out local spots that offer great views and access to events. Some places even cater to boatgaters with designated docking areas near stadiums.
- Check Regulations: Some venues have restrictions on where you can anchor or dock, so it’s important to check local regulations to avoid fines or being moved.
- Popular Boatgating Spots:
- Nissan Stadium, Nashville, TN (NFL Titans Games)
- Husky Stadium, Seattle, WA (College Football Games)
- Lake Havasu, AZ (Music Festivals and Sporting Events)
Price Considerations:
If you’re attending a major sporting event, there may be a docking fee or anchoring permits. For example, docking fees can range from $30–$150 per day, depending on the location and amenities available. Booking in advance is highly recommended for popular boatgating venues.
2. Equip Your Boat for a Tailgating Party
Why It Matters:
To make the most of boatgating, you need the right gear. This is more than just bringing food and drinks—it’s about setting up your boat as a floating entertainment hub.
Essential Gear for Boatgating:
- Grills: A portable grill is a must for boatgating. Look for a marine-friendly model like the Magma Marine Kettle Grill ($250–$350), which is designed to attach to your boat’s railing.
- Coolers: Keep your drinks cold all day with a high-quality cooler. The YETI Tundra 45 ($325) is popular for its durability and ice retention, which can last all day in the hot sun.
- Speakers: Music is key for setting the mood. The JBL Charge 5 ($180) is waterproof and provides excellent sound quality for an outdoor environment.
- Boat-Friendly Furniture: Folding chairs or portable lounge seating like Wise Folding Deck Chairs ($100 each) are a great addition, giving your guests a comfortable place to relax.
Specs:
- Grill Capacity: Magma Marine Kettle offers a 17″ cooking surface with a 12,500 BTU burner.
- Cooler Capacity: YETI Tundra 45 holds up to 28 cans with ice.
- Speaker Battery Life: JBL Charge 5 offers up to 20 hours of playback.
Make sure to check for space-saving furniture or inflatable seats, as space on a boat can be limited.
3. Plan Your Menu Around the Water
Why It Matters:
The food is central to any tailgating event, but boatgating adds another layer of consideration. Since you’re on the water, you’ll want to avoid overly messy meals while still capturing that fun tailgating atmosphere.
Food Ideas:
- Grill-Friendly Options: Hot dogs, burgers, grilled sausages, and kebabs are easy to cook on a boat grill. You can pre-prep skewers and marinated meats to make the grilling process simpler.
- Finger Foods: Chips, dips, sliders, and veggie platters are ideal for boatgating because they’re easy to serve and eat on the go.
- Pre-mixed Drinks: Bring along ready-made cocktails, canned beverages, or pre-mixed batches of margaritas or sangria for easy serving. For non-alcoholic options, stock up on flavored water or iced tea.
Cost Consideration:
For a full boatgating party of 6-8 people, expect to spend around $100–$200 on food and drinks. Pre-prepared food trays, like sandwich platters or veggie trays, can range from $20–$50.
4. Stay Safe with Proper Boating Etiquette
Why It Matters:
Safety should always be a priority on the water. While boatgating is all about fun, it’s crucial to follow basic boating rules and etiquette to ensure everyone has a great time without incident.
Tips for Safe Boatgating:
- Designate a Sober Captain: Alcohol may flow freely among guests, but the boat captain should always remain sober. This ensures the boat can be safely operated if you need to relocate or return to shore.
- Life Jackets: Every person on the boat should have a life jacket readily available. For children or weaker swimmers, consider having them wear their jackets at all times.
- Anchor Smartly: When anchoring in a crowded area, make sure you have enough anchor line to hold your boat securely in place, and leave adequate space between your boat and others. This helps avoid collisions if the wind picks up or the tide changes.
Price Considerations:
- Life Jackets: Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Life Vest ($60 each) is comfortable and high-rated for safety.
- Boat Insurance: If you’re hosting larger groups regularly, make sure your boat insurance covers liability. Boat insurance typically costs between $300–$1,500 annually, depending on your boat size and usage.
5. Create an Entertainment Hub
Why It Matters:
Boatgating isn’t just about eating and drinking. You’ll want to keep the party going with games and entertainment. Setting up your boat with the right amenities can transform your event from a simple get-together to an unforgettable floating tailgate.
Entertainment Ideas:
- Portable TV: If you’re watching the game, a portable marine-grade TV like the SunBrite 32” Outdoor TV ($1,500) is a great option. Make sure it’s equipped with a good antenna or satellite setup for reliable service.
- Games: Cornhole boards, floating beer pong tables, or card games are great for entertaining guests between quarters.
- Fishing Gear: If you’re at a venue where you can cast a line, having a few fishing rods on hand adds a fun activity to the mix.
Specs:
- SunBrite TV: Designed for outdoor use with anti-glare and waterproof features, ideal for marine environments.
- Floating Games: Inflatable beer pong tables can be found for around $40, and waterproof card sets for $10–$20.
Price Considerations:
Setting up a full entertainment hub may run you anywhere from $500 to $2,000, depending on the complexity of your setup and whether you’re adding high-end gear like TVs or sound systems.
Final Thoughts
Boatgating is a perfect way to combine your love for boating with the thrill of tailgating. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team or just enjoying the festive atmosphere, these five tips can help you create the ultimate boatgating experience. From selecting the right location to ensuring safety, planning a boatgating event requires a bit of preparation, but with the right equipment and a good group of friends, you’ll create memories that last long after the game is over.
Happy Boating!
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Read Rafting Up 101: How to Safely Raft Up with Other Boats until we meet in the next article.