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Celebrate Holidays the Boater Way

There are still plenty of fun ways to incorporate one of your favorite activities into the season, read on for ideas to celebrate holidays the boater way!

  • sea ray for the holiday

The holidays are here, and what could make it even better? A dash of boating, of course! Whether you decide to go out on the water or stay on land, there are plenty of fun ways to incorporate one of your favorite activities into the season. In addition to exciting boat parades, boating movies, and enjoying a holiday dinner on your boat, read on for more ideas to celebrate holidays the boater way!

Blend a Nautical Theme into your Seasonal Décor

Have you ever seen a starfish fir tree or coral reef-themed stockings? They do exist! There are many ways to spice up the season at home or on your vessel with some boat-tastic furnishings. From boat-rope garlands to seashells and anchor ornaments—the list can be infinite! You can also use a nautical theme for your boater's holiday meal with blue and white dinnerware or a table centerpiece. Check for visuals online, such as sites like Pinterest and Esty, which can spark more imagination.

Have Dinner on the Water

If you’re in a warm enough area and the weather report calls for a pleasant day, why not enjoy your holiday meal on your boat with one of these fantastic recipes? Make lasting memories and enjoy the tranquility of the water with family and friends. After a delicious meal and fun conversation, a cruise along the shore is always a bonus! Are you interested in a boat with a full galley to easily prepare dinner on? Check out this Cruisers Yachts 60 Cantius, Galeon 800 FLY, or one of these yachts from the Azimut Grande series.

Get Creative with Food

Certain foods are always a must-have for the holidays, and dishes with a maritime flair can spark a fun conversation! Besides adding a tender cut of fish, lobster, or king crab legs as a main course option, appetizers such as shrimp cocktail, baked clams casino, or stoned-wheat crackers with a savory smoked fish spread can bring an oceanic vibe. However, what takes the prize are the desserts! Make the holidays sweeter with a decorated boat cake, sea-themed cookies, or fake beach-sand cupcakes. You can also build and decorate your very own gingerbread boat. Be inspired by the many recipes online, and don’t forget the cocktails—a blue Hawaiian would make a splash among guests!

  • boat with christmas lights on a lighted boat parade

Activities and Entertainment

Boating activities and entertainment can vary in different locations. In warmer areas, especially in a number of Florida coastal regions, boat parades and outdoor concerts by the water can often be enjoyed this time of year. Check your area and your local MarineMax for some fun holiday events. Even if you’re not out on the water, boating can be incorporated into a number of holiday activities to enjoy with friends and family of almost any age range. If you’re into gaming, there are many boating games to play online or download via mobile apps where you can challenge or race one another. There are also plenty of ocean and boating-related movies such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Titanic, Disney’s Jungle Cruise, and classics like Moby Dick and Jaws. Other forms of entertainment include building a model boat or piecing together a boating-themed puzzle..

The Gift of Boating

There are plenty of great holiday gift ideas that revolve around boating. From something as grand as a boat to a heartfelt message on a boat-themed card—it’s truly the thought that counts! Are you seeking gadgets, sports gear, water toys, and other on-the-water innovations? Our Gift for Boaters guide offers many suggestions. For creative knitters and avid sweater-wearers, there are always ugly boating and fishing Christmas sweaters. If you’re shopping for kids, boating Lego sets and remote-controlled boats are always fun gifts. Or, if you would like an escape and head for the horizon for the holidays for the ultimate vacation experience, you can always charter a yacht and explore the beautiful British Virgin Islands with MarineMax Vacations. And, of course, the holidays are always happier with a new boat!

With plenty of manufacturer’s discounts and savings for the holidays and beyond on yachts, sports cruisers, fishing boats, pontoons, and more, MarineMax is here to help make your experience merry! If you’re new to boating or considering a different type of boat, check out our Boat Finder Quiz or see our latest inventory online or in person at a MarineMax near you!

We wish you all the best and happy holidays from MarineMax!

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