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9 Fun Things To Do On A Yacht With Family Or Friends

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9 Fun Things To Do On A Yacht With Family Or Friends

The sun glints off the turquoise waves, the wind whispering through your hair, the endless blue horizon stretching before you – there's something undeniably magical about a yacht vacation.

But what if you don't have a trust fund the size of a cruise ship? What activities do you do on a yacht?

Whether you're sailing with your adventure-loving crew or your sun-kissed significant other - whether you want to splurge or save, here are nine things to do on a yacht with family or friends that will fit your budget.

1.   For the Social Butterflies

  • Sunset Soiree Splurge: A DJ spinning tunes as the sun melts into the sea. A gourmet buffet spread fit for royalty. And you and your glam squad dancing under a canopy of stars. It's the yacht party of your dreams. Luxury yacht charters can make this picture-perfect scene a reality.
  • Budget Bonanza: Channel your inner pirate with a themed deck party. Think tiki torches, fruity cocktails, and a potluck feast where everyone brings their signature dish. Bonus points for the most outrageous costume.
  • Game On: Turn the yacht into a giant game board. Organize a scavenger hunt with clues hidden around the decks and cabins, or host a hilarious yacht Olympics with inflatable kayaks and pool noodles as your trusty steeds.
  • Exploration: Be a voyager. Try La Rochelle Island. It's a great place by the seaside, so if you love some fresh seafood and beautiful beaches and just have a leisurely stroll along lovely streets or in the pine forest, get your yacht into La Rochelle Island's direction. History, urban life, seafood, and the calmness of the sea or forest are all in La Rochelle Island.
DJ on a yacht

2.   For the Romantic Couples

  • Chef's Kiss of Love (Splurge): Whisk your sweetheart away for an intimate dinner in a personal yacht charter vacation under the stars. Picture a private space where a Michelin-starred chef creates culinary masterpieces while a violinist serenades you. Pure bliss!
  • Movie Marathon Magic (Budget): Cozy up on the sundeck with fluffy blankets and your favorite rom-coms. Popcorn? DIY it with kernels and a hand-crank popper for an extra dose of nostalgia. That's a date night worth remembering.
  • Starry-Eyed Adventure: Learn to navigate the celestial seas with a DIY constellation guide. Uncover the secrets of the Milky Way, share whispered wishes on shooting stars, and make memories that shine brighter than any diamond. 
beautiful couple sitting on a yacht in a bright day

3.   For the Adventurers

  • Dive into Paradise (Splurge): Plunge into a hidden coral reef teeming with vibrant fish and technicolor coral formations with a guided scuba diving excursion. Remember, it's all about responsible reef tourism, so observe some eco-friendly yachting activities. You get your thrill without hurting Mother Nature.
  • Paddle Power (Budget): Make boating fun. Grab your kayaks or paddleboards and explore secluded coves and hidden beaches. Carve through pristine waters, discover secret waterfalls, and feel the adrenaline rush of conquering tiny waves.
  • Big Catch Thrill: Imagine the sun glinting off the turquoise waters of Costa Rica, your heart pounding as a monster marlin tugs on your line. If you're a fishing enthusiast wanting to up your game by finding a big catch, Jaco Fishing Charters knows where to go. These seasoned pros know the ins and outs of the local waters, leading you to prime fishing grounds teeming with marine life and impressive catches.
a man stepping into a paddle board from a yacht

4.   For the Foodies

  • Master Class on the High Seas (Splurge): Hone your culinary skills with a private cooking class led by a renowned chef. Whip fresh seafood dishes and learn restaurant-worthy techniques with the vast ocean as your backdrop.
  • Potluck Palooza (Budget): Embrace the communal spirit with a yacht potluck. Everyone brings their signature dish, from grandma's lasagna to spicy Thai curry, creating a floating feast of international flavors.
  • Blind Tastebuds Challenge: Put your taste buds to the test with a blind taste test of local delicacies from different ports. Think fresh mango from the Philippines, creamy cheese from Holland, and spicy chorizo from Spain. Who will reign supreme as the yacht's gourmet guru?
a couple sitting on a moving yacht the guy feeding a strawberry to the girl with champagne in the forefront

5.   For the Relaxation Seekers

  • Spa Sanctuary (Splurge): Who says yacht activities should only be about loud parties and fun adventures? Indulge in luxurious treatments like hot stone massages and seaweed wraps with the soothing sounds of waves lapping against the hull. In-yacht spa services take pampering to a whole new level, and the ocean views add a touch of serenity.
  • Sunrise Serenade (Budget): Greet the day with a gentle yoga session on the sundeck as the sun paints the sky in fiery hues. Breathe in the fresh ocean air, feel the warmth on your skin, and let the rhythm of the waves wash away your worries.
  • DIY Spa Day: Self-care is one of the many fun things adults can do on a yacht. Embrace nature's bounty with a homemade spa experience. Whip up a seaweed scrub using freshly harvested kelp, slather on a coconut oil mask, and let the sun work magic. It's all about natural wellness and feeling one with the ocean.
a woman sunbathing in the front of a yacht

6.   For the Culture Vultures

  • Historical Gems (Splurge): Embark on a guided tour of a historic island or ancient ruins, like Cozumel's Mayan temples or Charleston's rich maritime history. These cultural immersion experiences will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the world's diverse heritage.
  • Local Rhythms (Budget): Learn the art of hula dancing from Polynesian crew members or pick up a few foreign phrases from the friendly staff. Immerse yourself in the local culture, share stories and laughter, and create authentic connections that transcend language barriers.
  • Treasure Hunt Through Time: Organize a themed scavenger hunt around the yacht based on its history or the local culture. Decipher cryptic clues, uncover hidden artifacts and learn fascinating facts about the places you visit. It's an educational adventure that's both fun and enriching.
a woman wearing a big shirt looking down on a yacht

7.   For the Thrill Seekers

  • Ocean Adventure Playground (Splurge): Experience the exhilarating rush of jet skiing or water skiing across the waves, carve through the water on a parasailing excursion, or test your limits with wakeboarding tricks. Professional instructors ensure your safety while you push your boundaries and create memories to make your heart race.
  • Human Torpedo Mayhem (Budget): Turn the yacht into a giant slip-and-slide! Grab inflatable life jackets and race across the deck, giggling and splashing your way to victory. It's the perfect way to cool off, unleash your inner child, and create hilarious memories with your crew.
  • Learn the Ropes: From knot-tying basics to sail-trimming techniques, there's always something new to learn on a yacht. Ask the captain or crew to share their sailing wisdom, and soon, you'll be confidently steering the wheel and feeling the thrill of commanding your vessel.
a man wearing life vest water skiing

8.   For the Game Lovers

  • Casino Royale (Splurge): Transform the deck into a floating casino with blackjack tables, roulette wheels, and poker chips. Dress in your finest attire, sip on fancy cocktails, and test your luck against your fellow players. It's a night of glamour, excitement, and, who knows, a big win!
  • Board Game Bonanza (Budget): Fun onboard yacht activities don't have to be expensive. Dust off your favorite board games or create DIY versions of classics like Pictionary or Scrabble. Family yacht games are simple yet timeless ways to connect with your crew and create lasting memories.
  • Mystery on the High Seas: Channel your inner detective with a murder mystery dinner party. Assign roles, dress in costumes, and follow the clues to uncover the culprit. It's an interactive and immersive experience that keeps everyone guessing until the end.
card games, dice, and board game pieces

9.   For the Eco-Conscious Nature Lovers

  • Snorkel Safari (Splurge): Join a guided snorkeling expedition to vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and fascinating marine life. Bring your snorkeling buddies and experience the wonders of the underwater world while respecting the delicate ocean ecosystem.
  • Beach Cleanup Heroes (Budget): Make a positive impact by participating in a beach cleanup project. Gather your crew and collect plastic waste, discarded fishing gear, and other debris, leaving the shoreline pristine for future generations. It's a fulfilling way to connect with nature and give back to the environment.
  • Citizen Scientist: Contribute to valuable scientific research by participating in citizen science projects. Monitor seabird populations, collect water samples, or identify marine algae – every bit of data contributes to our understanding of the delicate ocean ecosystem.
a selfie of a woman underwater snorkeling

Fun Things You Can Do on a Yacht with Kids

How do you keep your little pirates entertained with boat activities? Here are fun things to do on a yacht with kids:

  1. Treasure Hunt Frenzy: Hide clues around the deck and cabins, leading to "buried" treats and a pirate hat for the ultimate captain!
  2. Mermaid Movie Magic: String up a sheet, project ocean movies onto it, and let the kids build mini coral castles from beach towels. Popcorn is optional (it'll get soggy, but hey, pirate life!).
  3. Dolphin Disco: Blast sea shanties, grab inflatable whales and dolphins, and have a slippery slide-and-splash extravaganza on the deck (life jackets, mateys!).
  4. Go fishing: Teach your kids how to fish. This will help them learn the value of patience and staying calm while working hard to get the prize.
  5. Build a Seaworthy Raft: Grab blankets, pillows, and pool noodles – it's time to construct the ultimate floating fort. Bonus points for decorating with seaweed flags and pirate eye patches.
  6. Glow-in-the-Dark Pirate Party: Paint faces with glow-in-the-dark paint, string up fairy lights, and tell spooky pirate stories under the stars. Prepare for giggles and shivers alike.
  7. Castaway Cuisine Challenge: Divide into teams and gather ingredients from the pantry – crackers, cheese, fruit – to whip up the most creative (and edible!) pirate snacks.
  8. Stargazing Scavenger Hunt: Download a stargazing app, grab blankets, and search for constellations while telling tales of brave space pirates and friendly aliens.

The best yacht activities for kids are all about imagination and laughter. Let kids appreciate nature and enjoy their time in the sun. 

Important Note: Keep kids on a yacht safe by implementing a 'life jacket rule.' Make them understand the risks and safety precautions before going on board. 

Create a beautiful memory together as a family.

young boy and girl lying on a towel holding a toy plane on a yacht

FAQ: Yachting for the Curious

1. What type of activity is boating?

Boating covers many water-based activities, from leisurely cruising on small motorboats to adrenaline-pumping jet skiing. It encompasses various vessels, from kayaks and canoes to larger cruisers and sailboats.

2. Boating vs Yachting vs Sailing

  • Boating: General term for any activity on a boat encompassing various sizes and purposes.
  • Yachting: Refers to larger, luxurious boats designed for comfort and leisure, often with amenities like cabins and crew.
  • Sailing: Using wind power to propel a boat, typically associated with sailboats but can also apply to yachts with auxiliary sails. While sailing, people can cruise (relax), race (wind in their sails!), explore (hidden coves), play (games and water sports), or connect (sunsets with friends).

3. What makes a yacht special?

  • Size and luxury: Yachts are generally larger and more luxurious than standard boats, with features like multiple decks, spacious cabins, and high-end amenities.
  • Comfort and exclusivity: Designed for leisurely enjoyment and often equipped with features like hot tubs, bars, and entertainment systems.
  • Freedom and exploration: Allows for independent travel to remote destinations and exploration of coastlines.

4. Can you travel with a yacht?

Absolutely! Yachts offer incredible travel opportunities, allowing you to cruise along coastlines, explore remote islands, and visit fascinating ports. You can customize your itinerary, set your own pace, and experience destinations at your leisure.

5. What can you do with a yacht?

The possibilities are endless! Relax on the sundeck, swim in the ocean, host parties, explore underwater reefs, participate in water sports, fish, or enjoy the stunning scenery. A yacht is your floating playground, providing a unique and luxurious way to experience the world.

6. What are fun things to do on a boat party?

  • Games & activities: Water balloon toss, scavenger hunt, giant Jenga, trivia night, themed costume contest.
  • Music & dancing: Crank up the tunes, learn a party line dance, karaoke showdown, and singalongs under the stars. Or throw your friend an epic bachelorette party.
  • Relaxation & socializing: Sunbathe on the deck, soak in the hot tub (if available), chat with friends, and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Water fun: Swim & splash around, try the inflatable toys, paddle boarding (if calm waters), and sunset swim with life jackets.
  • Delicious bites & drinks: Finger foods and snacks, themed cocktails, fresh fruit platter, barbecue feast (if equipped).

7. Can you make money owning a yacht?

It's possible but not guaranteed. Some options include:

  • Chartering: Renting your yacht to others for vacations or events.
  • Participating in regattas: Winning prize money in competitive sailing races.
  • Using it for business: Hosting corporate events or filming projects on board.

However, owning a yacht comes with significant costs for maintenance, insurance, and crew salaries. Carefully consider the financial implications before pursuing this path.

8. How much do yachts cost?

When you hear 'yacht,' you immediately think: expensive. But how much does a yacht really cost? You'd be surprised that there are yachts less than $1M. Here are the 10 cheapest yachts and power boats with spacious cabins according to the Automotive Territory channel.


Fun Things to Do on a Yacht with Family and Friends

What do people on yachts do? And how do you make sailing fun? This is just a starting point. Feel free to add creative twists and tailor these activities to specific regions or destinations. You could stargaze in remote Pacific islands, bioluminescent kayaking in Puerto Rico, or go whale-watching expeditions in Alaska. The possibilities and fun things to do on a yacht are endless. So, raise the anchor, set sail, and discover fun boat activities that await you!

Question for You

From fun family boat activities to a relaxing yacht trip, have you had any unforgettable experiences on your yachting adventures? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!

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7 comments

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  1. I haven't been on a yacht but I have been on a cruise (the same maybe?) and loved the relaxation time! One of my favorite things to do was just stare at the water and read a book. :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. I've never been on a yacht before, but there is a first time for everything! It sounds like such a cool experience from this post and one day, hopefully, I'd be able to give it a go.

    My recent post: http://oliviascatastrophe.com/2018/02/shatter-me-book-review/

    ReplyDelete
  3. Good for the not so rich and not famous at all to enjoy a yacht!

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  4. How exciting read this was!!

    www.thepositivewindow.com

    ReplyDelete
  5. Just passing by as your blog was listed by a fellow blogging buddy . . . Flipped seriously is one of your favorite movies? In the small-world department, that movie was partially filmed in a school my two boys attended here in Michigan.

    Not a yacht fan, but a sailboat charter might be tempting if my brother could captain (after he learned to sail, of course).

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  6. A great place to just be and explore indeed. Plus not a bad spot to work if one has to work.

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  7. Wonderful advice here! Being by water is so incredibly soothing that's for sure. I love gazing at beautiful sunsets and sitting back admiring the beauty surrounding me.

    Great post :)

    Laura xo
    www.shehearts.net

    ReplyDelete