Food and Drink Ideas for a Day on the Water
Food and Drink Ideas for a Day on the Water
Make the most of your time on board with these easy, boat-friendly food and drink ideas.
Food and drink can elevate your day on the water. These ideas are practical, tasty, and mess-free – perfect for family outings, couples, and small groups.
1. Keep It Simple
Boating isn't the time for five-course meals. Focus on food that's easy to eat, carry, and clean up. Sandwiches, wraps, cut fruit, nuts, and crackers are all great options. Think of food that doesn’t require forks or knives, and won’t melt or leak in the sun. Bonus tip: skip anything with strong odors that might not mix well with the sea breeze.
2. Stay Hydrated
The sun, wind, and salt can all dehydrate you faster than you think. Pack at least one large reusable water bottle per person, and consider adding a few extras. Infused water with citrus or mint adds a refreshing twist. Avoid sugary sodas and too much alcohol, which can both increase dehydration risk.
3. Cooler Strategy
Space is limited on most boats, so bring a soft-sided cooler instead of a bulky box. Ice packs will keep things cold without leaking, and stacking pre-packed items in containers avoids mess. Choose a cooler that’s easy to tuck into a bench or corner, and don’t overpack – the goal is efficient comfort.
4. Avoid Glass
Glass bottles and boats don’t mix. Swapping to cans, stainless steel, or plastic containers reduces the risk of breakage and injuries. Many rental companies forbid glass entirely, so double-check before you bring that bottle of wine. If you must bring wine or champagne, decant it before you board.
5. Pre-Cut Everything
You don’t want to slice tomatoes or cheese on a rocking boat. Do all your chopping and portioning in advance. Use small tupperware boxes or paper wrappings that can be reused or recycled. This makes everything easier to serve and minimizes garbage, mess, and time spent dealing with knives.
6. Avoid Greasy Foods
Oily snacks like chips or fried food can quickly turn into slippery deck hazards. Choose dry, crumb-free alternatives like granola bars, trail mix, or energy bites. Your hands, and the boat’s surfaces, will stay cleaner – and it makes the food safer to handle, especially when wind picks up.
7. Pack for Portions
Individual servings are easier to distribute and avoid constant grabbing from shared containers. Wraps in parchment, mini snack boxes, and single-serve drinks make everyone’s life easier. If it’s a romantic outing, pack a picnic-style meal you can enjoy slowly with a view.
8. Clean-Up Kit
Bring napkins, paper towels, a roll of trash bags, and some hand wipes or sanitizing spray. There’s no guarantee of easy cleanup options onboard, so come prepared. A few plastic containers for leftovers or waste can also help you leave the boat just as you found it.
9. Easy Drinks
Pre-made cocktails in cans, sparkling water, iced tea, or juice boxes are all boat-friendly drinks. If you’re planning to toast, go for screw-top bottles and bring plastic glasses. Always check if your charter allows alcohol – and drink responsibly, especially if someone is driving.
10. HejBoat Pro Tip
Ask your rental provider whether food is allowed and where you can eat. Some boats have restricted zones or rules about crumbs, grease, or drinks. If unsure, a simple dry snack and water is always safe. HejBoat listings often include food-friendly tags – use them to plan your day.
