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picnic on a boat
Savoring Sunshine: The Art of Picnicking on a Boat
Picnicking on a boat—a pastime as Florida as flip-flops and sunscreen. My partner, Jeff, has the serious task of fishing, while I’ve graciously accepted the title of “Picnic Planner Extraordinaire.” It’s a fair trade; I handle the snacks, he wrestles with the fish, and we both end up in a sunny paradise. So, let’s dive into how to make your boating picnic as seamless as the gentle sway of the waves.
Food
First off, let's talk food. If you think your gourmet aspirations belong on solid ground, think again! The trick here is to pack mess-free snacks. We’re talking about granola bars, pre-cut fruits, cheeses and the pièce de résistance: pre-made sandwiches. You’ll want to steer clear of anything resembling ice cream or chocolate—trust me, no one wants a melted disaster on the high seas.
Instead, think about lunch options that are both easy to handle and satisfying. Pasta salad is your friend—it's cold, it’s delicious, and if it spills, it isn’t sticky.
Pack a Snackle
The snackle box—a true marvel of human ingenuity, or perhaps just a sign that we've officially run out of ways to combine food and fun. If you haven’t see one, it is a tackle box, the kind your uncle uses to haul in fish that probably have a better sense of style than he does, but instead of hooks and lures, it's packed to the brim with an assortment of delectable charcuterie delights.
Now, for those of you who’ve never laid eyes on a tackle box, allow me to enlighten you. Originally designed for the sole purpose of organizing fishing gear (because heaven forbid you should lose a 50-cent hook in the great outdoors), these boxes come with a series of tiny compartments—perfect for stashing an impressive variety of cheeses, meats, fruit and perhaps even a rogue cracker or two.
The next time you find yourself pondering the great existential question of "What should I snack on while contemplating the vastness of nature?" look no further than the snackle box. Just remember, as you dive into this culinary cornucopia, respect the environment around you. No need to let the raccoons in on your secret stash—they have their own tackle boxes, after all.
Here’s a few other things to ponder before packing up:
Drinks
Hydration is key. You’ll need plenty of water—let’s save the dehydration for the beach sunburn, shall we? And if you’re feeling fancy, nautical-themed cocktails or mocktails can really set the mood. Think “Tropical Tease” or “Sailor’s Sunset.” Bonus points if you can create a signature drink that matches your boat’s color scheme. Nothing says class like a pastel-colored beverage to sip while fishing for snook!
My personal favort mixed drink to take and make on the boat is the Moscow mule, it is light and refreshing and doesn’t require a blender or any complicated gear. Of course we swap out the copper cup for a tumbler with a lid. To make it you only need a baggie of sliced limes, cans of ginger beer and vodka. I add all the ingredeance with ice directly in the tumbler with a lid and give it a shake to mix.
Other Tips
Lastly, don’t forget the small things. Bring hand sanitizer and napkins—because nature’s not always accommodating when it comes to messes. Plates, cups, and utensils are a must. No one wants to try to drink Prosecco out of a cooler lid.
With the right preparation, your boating picnic can turn from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s not just about the food or drinks; it’s about the laughter shared, the views admired, and the memories made. So next time you find yourself on the water, remember these tips, pack up your cooler, and set sail for a day of deliciousness under the sun. Who knows? You might even catch more than just fish!
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5 hr
650 US dollars
4 hr
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