Entertaining on a Pontoon Boat
Pontoon boats are perfect for hosting parties or other gatherings out on the water. They offer plenty of deck space so that you can accommodate more people without it feeling cramped. They are also very stable, meaning you and your guest won’t become uncomfortable due to the rocking of the boat. If you want to try hosting a gathering on a pontoon boat, this guide from Prestige Water Sports can help you get started.
Decor
The right decorations can go a long way towards creating a party atmosphere. We recommend establishing a theme. Popular themes include casino night, fiesta, nautical, and tropical luau. Having a theme will help ensure that your decor matches and make party planning easier in the long run. Party supply stores are a great place to find themed items like napkins, coasters, streamers, and more. You can even ask your guest to dress in costumes for the occasion!
Food
Food can make or break a party, but prepping food on a pontoon boat can be difficult for a variety of reasons. It’s often better to focus on finger foods like chips, popcorn, hummus, cheese and crackers, and/or a fruit/veggie tray. Another option is to host a potluck and have guests bring their own dishes.
Trying to serve food on a pontoon boat can also bring unique challenges. Glass can break and create a safety hazard, so we recommend using recyclable paper or reusable plastic instead. Disposable champagne or margarita flutes are very easy to hold onto even in choppy waters. Finally, be sure to cover food with saran wrap, aluminum foil, or a plastic cover to keep insects and water out.
Entertainment
Another important element of hosting a successful party is the music. Many pontoon boat models have a speaker system of some kind, along with a radio or USB port. You can ask your guests for music recommendations or build a playlist based off of your party’s theme.Games are another popular way to keep your guests entertained. You can pack along a pack of cards and a few board games, or focus on games that require little to no equipment/preparation. Some pontoon owners choose to set up a movie night by displaying a film on a tablet or laptop. You can also hook up a portable projector, with a white sheet to act as a screen. Don’t forget the waterproof speakers!
Clean Up
Cleaning might not be as fun as setting up or attending a party, but keeping your vessel clean will go a long way towards preventing pests from taking up residence on your boat. Plan ahead and pack cleaning supplies, including sanitation wipes, hand sanitizer, and trash bags. Double bag your trash to prevent spills, and have a separate container on hand for your recyclables.
Shop pontoon boats at Prestige Water Sports in Boise, Idaho. We’re proud to serve communities like Twin Falls and Nampa, Idaho. We also have service, parts, boat storage, winterization, gear, financing, and trade-ins. We hope to see you soon!