Your Ultimate Boat Party Checklist: The Top 9 Tips To Ensure A Successful Boat Party

Having your boat party checklist ready before the big day out on the water is essential. No matter if you’re planning for a relaxing or a party cruise out on the water, there are a few items you’ll want to make sure you bring along to ensure you stay comfortable.

Once the boat pulls away from the wharf, there’s no turning back so plan ahead and make sure you are ready for an amazing day on Sydney Harbour. 

If you are reading this, it’s likely that you’ve already organised the majority of things for your private boat hire. If you’re not that far in the process yet, our “how to organise your party boat hire on Sydney Harbour in 7 easy steps” article could come in helpful.

But let’s assume you’ve already picked the date, sent the invites and the date is nearing. And that you’re preparing for the big day and ticked off most things on your list. To make sure you’re not forgetting anything, we’re here to help! We’ve put together the ultimate boat party checklist to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

1. You’re on the water, don’t forget your swimmers. ☑️

If the weather is nice – and in Sydney we know it almost always is – you will at some point fancy a little dip in the ocean. Even if right now you’re thinking “I definitely won’t go in”, you most likely will want to later. Trust us, we’ve been there (time & time & time again). So come prepared and save yourself from jumping off the boat in your undies. You will thank us later.

2. Water’s wet, bring your towel. ☑️

To go with the above, it’s nice to have a dry towel to wrap yourself in after your swim. Perfect for when it cools down a bit too, or for something to lie on whilst sunbathing on the deck of the boat. If you like packing light, bring a sarong instead of a towel, this also does the trick. 

3. Leave the heels at home, flats or no shoes for the win! ☑️

Heels look great, but they’re not ideal for your boating experience. Boats tend to get wet and slippery and the last thing you want is sliding into an unplanned split (ouch). Also, not many captains are going to let you walk around with heels as their fiberglass boats won’t like it very much. It’s a lot more safe to wear no shoes or, if you prefer, thongs or flats. On some of the yachts and super yachts shoes are not allowed at all so make sure to get them toes boat ready!

Planning Private Boat Hire on Sydney Harbour?

4. Drinking water is a must, keep yourself hydrated. ☑️

We’re sure you’ve thought of the booze, but don’t forget to put water on your packing list! You can never have enough of it to keep you and your crew hydrated (especially in the warmer months). Also great for tricking your friend who had a bit too much into thinking it’s vodka. Shots anyone?!

5. There’s no UberEats on the water, pack some snacks. ☑️

Snacks! You might think you won’t be hungry, but trust us, you will be! A day out on the water is fun but tiring and snacks will give you that little bit of extra fuel to keep you going! A few snack favourites are: crisps, Doritos with dip, easy to eat fruits (strawberries, apples, grapes, bananas), nuts and raw veggies (such as carrot & cucumber sticks and cherry tomatoes). Throw in some hummus and guac and your crew will love you for it.

Most boats also come with a BBQ, so bring some snags for the barbie. If you’ve gone for a BYO option, this will be a requirement and the captain will be happy to cook up your grub while you’re enjoying the sun or having a swim. If you’re still debating between a BYO cruise or an all inclusive cruise, our “BYO or catering for your Sydney boat hire, what to choose?” article can help you decide!

6. Avoid the burn, pack your sunnies and sunscreen. ☑️

Somehow you don’t always feel the sun burn your skin when you’re accompanied by an ocean breeze. But we all know the Aussie sun has got some freakin’ bite! So slip slop slap and protect that gorgeous skin of yours from the rays of the sun. 

7. Plan for a breeze and set your mind at ease. ☑️

Unless the forecast is 30+ degrees all day and night, the weather can and most likely will change when you’re out on the water. If the wind picks up, it can get rather chilly, even during summer. If you’re cold you won’t be able to enjoy your time to the fullest. We suggest adding a warm jacket or scarf to your packing list to keep yourself warm on those breezy days.

8. Make sure you’re afterparty ready, bring something to keep fresh. ☑️

No one likes a stencher, don’t let it be you! We recommend bringing some wipes or deodorant for during or after your lovely salty time on the boat. If you are heading out for dinner/drinks after your cruise, bring anything you need to get you from boat scruff to polished enough. 😉

9. Viva la Musica! Get your Spotify playlist boat party ready. ☑️

The right tunes will set the tone for a great day on the water. If you haven’t organised anyone to look after the music, prepare some playlists for the day. The boats have speakers with a Bluetooth connection so you can play the music that is suited for your group. To make things even easier for you, we have put together a few boat party playlists which you can access here > Sydney Harbour Days Spotify Playlists. Time to get your boogie on!

Ready for your Sydney Harbour boat hire?

A Sydney Harbour boat party can tick all your boxes for any event. It’s a perfect idea for a weekend party with friends, a corporate event, a small intimate gathering or that ultimate birthday party on a yacht.

We’ve helped plan boat parties of all kinds so know what to look for when narrowing down your options. Best of all, you don’t pay anything extra when booking through compared to booking directly with a boat owner!

Ready To Set Sail Or Find Out More?