Brunch on a Boat: 3 Tips for Planning Your Brunch Cruise

Brunch cruises are the perfect blend of relaxation, food, and stunning views on the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a weekend escape, a well-planned brunch on a boat offers a memorable experience. With the right boat, menu, and setup, you can create an unforgettable outing that delights your guests. Here are three essential tips to help you plan the perfect brunch cruise.

1. Choose the Right Boat for Your Brunch Cruise

The first step to a successful brunch on the water is selecting the ideal boat for your event. Depending on the size of your party and your preferences, different types of boats offer unique experiences. Here are a few popular options:

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats are a fantastic choice for a casual, laid-back brunch. They provide a flat, spacious deck with plenty of seating, making it easy to set up tables and seating arrangements. Many pontoons come equipped with shade canopies, which is ideal for midday cruises when the sun can be intense.

  • Recommended Model: Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX
  • Price: $30,000 – $35,000
  • Specs:
  • Capacity: 10 people
  • Length: 21 feet
  • Features: Ample seating, built-in sound system, bimini top for shade, easy boarding ladder

Cabin Cruisers

For a more upscale brunch cruise, a cabin cruiser offers comfort and luxury. These boats typically feature a galley (kitchen), indoor seating, and sometimes even air conditioning, which is perfect for brunch events in warmer climates. Cabin cruisers are ideal for smaller, more intimate groups who want a more refined experience.

  • Recommended Model: Bayliner Ciera 8
  • Price: $90,000 – $100,000
  • Specs:
  • Capacity: 8 people
  • Length: 25 feet
  • Features: Full galley, indoor seating, convertible dining space, large swim platform, bathroom

Catamarans

If you’re hosting a larger group, a catamaran might be the perfect solution. These boats provide stability on the water, with plenty of deck space for mingling and dining. The dual-hull design offers a smoother ride, which is great for serving food and beverages without worrying about spills.

  • Recommended Model: Lagoon 42
  • Price: $450,000 – $500,000
  • Specs:
  • Capacity: 12 people
  • Length: 42 feet
  • Features: Multiple lounging areas, large outdoor dining space, flybridge, spacious galley

2. Plan a Delicious Brunch Menu with Boat-Friendly Options

The food is the heart of any brunch, and when you’re on a boat, it’s essential to choose items that are easy to prepare and serve in a marine environment. Here are a few tips for creating the perfect brunch menu:

Go for Easy-to-Serve Dishes

Since space can be limited on a boat, avoid overly complex meals that require extensive preparation or large cooking equipment. Opt for finger foods and items that can be prepared ahead of time. Here are some crowd-pleasers:

  • Mini Quiches: These are easy to make in advance, and their bite-size portions make them simple to serve on a boat.
  • Fresh Fruit Skewers: Skewers are easy to handle and offer a refreshing, healthy option for your guests.
  • Smoked Salmon Bagels: Pre-assemble bagels with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and toppings for a delicious, no-cook option.

Keep the Drinks Flowing

A signature brunch cocktail is a must! Mimosas, Bloody Marys, and bellinis are classics. If you’re serving alcohol, make sure you have enough non-alcoholic options like sparkling water, fresh juices, and iced coffee.

  • Boat-Friendly Tip: Consider investing in spill-proof containers or insulated pitchers that keep drinks cold and prevent spills on deck.

Use the Boat’s Galley Efficiently

If your boat has a galley, plan meals that can be reheated or finished off using the stove or oven onboard. Make sure to stock up on boat-friendly serving ware like reusable plastic or melamine dishes that won’t break if dropped.

Estimated Food Costs:

  • Per Person: $10 – $25
  • For a Group of 8: $80 – $200
    (These costs will vary depending on whether you opt for homemade or catered options, and the types of beverages served.)

3. Create the Perfect Atmosphere for Your Brunch Cruise

Once you’ve chosen your boat and planned the menu, it’s time to create a welcoming, festive atmosphere. From décor to entertainment, setting the right mood will ensure your guests enjoy a relaxing and memorable experience.

Set Up a Comfortable Dining Space

Depending on the type of boat you’ve chosen, you may need to get creative with your seating arrangements. For example, pontoon boats often have picnic-style tables, while cabin cruisers may have indoor or outdoor dining areas.

  • Tip: Bring foldable tables and chairs to create a versatile setup. Deck out the space with tablecloths, napkins, and lightweight, wind-resistant décor to make the brunch feel special without taking up too much room.

Play Some Light Background Music

Enhance the ambiance with some light background music. Most modern boats are equipped with Bluetooth-capable sound systems, allowing you to create a playlist ahead of time. Opt for smooth jazz, soft acoustic, or laid-back tropical tunes to set the tone.

  • Boat Sound System Options:
  • Fusion MS-RA70 Marine Stereo: $200
  • JBL PRV-175 Bluetooth Marine Receiver: $150
  • Infinity Marine 6.5″ LED Speakers: $130 (for a pair)

Prepare for Weather Changes

Always be prepared for unexpected weather changes when planning a brunch cruise. Bring along a canopy or umbrella for shade if you’re on a pontoon boat, and make sure to have blankets or jackets in case it gets chilly on the water.

Final Thoughts: Brunching on the Water

Brunch on a boat is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and treat your friends or family to something unique. By choosing the right boat, crafting a delicious yet simple menu, and creating a festive atmosphere, you can ensure your brunch cruise will be a hit. With a bit of planning, you’ll have a smooth sailing experience filled with great food, drinks, and even better company.

Happy brunching on the water!

Estimated Overall Costs for a Brunch Cruise:

  • Boat Rental (if applicable): $400 – $1,500 per day (depending on boat type and location)
  • Food and Drinks: $10 – $25 per person
  • Décor and Entertainment: $100 – $300
    Total Cost for a Group of 8: $600 – $2,500

Happy Boating!

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Read 10 Kid-Friendly Travel Destinations to Visit by Boat until we meet in the next article. 

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