Celebrate Holidays the Boater Way

The holidays are here, and what could make it even better? A dash of boating, of course! Even if your boat is stored for the winter or it’s a bit too nippy outside to get out on the water, there are still plenty of fun ways to incorporate one of your favorite activities into the season. In addition to heading off to a tropical paradise to enjoy the water, read on for 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 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. A DIY ornament with your boat’s name hand-painted on it is also a great touch! Check for visuals online, such as sites like Pinterest and Esty, which can spark more imagination.

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!

Activities and Entertainment

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 activities include building a model boat, a boating captain snowman with a snow boat, or a boating-themed puzzle. You can also check with your local MarineMax for more holiday events indoors.

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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