Getting invited to a boat cruise party is one of my favorite invitations, but figuring out what to wear to a boat cruise party can be tricky.
Is it gonna be cold? Are we going for a dip? Is it fancy or casual? So many questions and so many ways it could go wrong, but don’t worry I’ve got you covered with some tips and outfit ideas to help you look chic and stay safe on the boat!
Whether it’s a black tie event or a casual gathering, dressing for a boat cruise party requires some planning and consideration, and by the end of this article, you’ll be all set and ready to hop on board!
What To Wear To A Boat Cruise Party?
Different Types Of Boat Parties
One of the most important things to consider when choosing what to wear for a boat cruise party is the type of event you’ll be attending. Here are some common types of boat parties and what you can wear to each one.
Office Boat Party
Count your blessings because if you work for a company hosting a boat cruise party for its employees, you’re in luck! This is a great opportunity to let loose and mingle with your colleagues outside the office.
However, since it is still a work-related event, you should dress professionally but add some fun elements to your outfit. A crisp white blouse paired with high-waisted silk trousers can be a chic and comfortable option. Or a longer more conservative dress with some statement jewelry can also work well.
Avoid anything too revealing or casual, and stick to more conservative yet stylish choices.
Boat Party with Friends
The rules for dressing for a boat party with friends are more relaxed and casual. You can wear a cute sundress or a flowy maxi dress, perfect for enjoying the sea breeze and taking Instagram-worthy pictures.
If you prefer pants, opt for lightweight linen or cotton pants paired with a fun crop top or tank top. Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit as well, in case you want to take a dip in the water.
Destination Boat Party
If you’re lucky enough to attend a boat party in a tropical destination, then it’s time to bring out your most vibrant and colorful outfits. Think bright floral prints, flowy fabrics, and fun accessories like straw hats and wedges.
A cute two-piece set or a romper can be perfect for this type of event. Don’t shy away from bold colors and patterns; they will make you stand out in the sea of people and add to the tropical vibe.
Cocktail Boat Party (Night Time Boat Party)
I’m not gonna lie, cocktail boat parties have a special place in my heart. I mean, who doesn’t love watching the sunset with a drink in hand while cruising on the water?
For this type of event, you can go for a more glamorous and dressy look. A fitted midi or maxi dress with some statement jewelry will make you feel like a million bucks. Don’t forget to bring a shawl or jacket to keep yourself warm when the breeze picks up.
If dresses are not your thing, opt for a dressy jumpsuit or pantsuit paired with strappy heels. And of course, don’t forget about the accessories! A clutch bag and some sparkly earrings will elevate your look even more.
Wedding Boat Party
Weddings are always the perfect excuse to dress up, and a boat party wedding is no exception. Depending on the dress code, you can go for a more formal or casual look.
For a formal wedding, a floor length dress is best as it can tend to get windy on the water. Opt for elegant and classic styles like a wrap dress or a cut-out gown. Pair it with some strappy heels and minimal jewelry to let the dress be the star of the show.
For a more casual wedding, you can have some fun with your outfit. A flowy midi dress or a jumpsuit in a bright color or bold print will give off a fun and celebratory vibe. Pair it with some comfortable block heels or wedges, as you’ll be on your feet dancing all night long.
Do's and Don't of Attending a Boat Party
Boat parties can be long and unpredictable, so coming prepared is important. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when attending a boat party:
Do's
- Wear comfortable shoes: Boat parties can involve a lot of walking and dancing, so opt for comfortable shoes that you can move around in.
- Dress in layers: The weather can change quickly on the water, so bringing a shawl or jacket is important to keep yourself warm.
- Bring sunglasses and sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun’s rays by bringing sunglasses and sunscreen. You don’t want to spend the next few days looking like a lobster!
Don'ts
- Wear stilettos: Walking in heels on a boat can be dangerous (and uncomfy). Stick to flats, wedges, or block heels for a safer and more comfortable option.
- Overdress: It’s better to be slightly underdressed than overdressed at a boat party. Avoid anything too formal or restricting.
- Bring a lot of valuables: Since you’ll be on a boat, there’s always the risk of things getting wet or lost. Leave your expensive jewelry and valuables at home.
Office Boat Party Outfits
Silk Maxi Dress + Sandals
A silk maxi dress is classy and sophisticated. And if you pick an aline style, it’s going to be wind proof as well.
Pick evening sandals and you are ready for the cruise party.
This dress is perfect for a day-to-night office boat party. It’s made from stretchy material, making it comfortable to move around in and has a conservative neckline.
The dress is breathable but will keep you comfortable with the length and long sleeves.
- Sizes: XXS - XL
Printed A Line Satin Dress + Black Sandals
Cruise parties are all about sun and brightness, so why not wear something to be in that vibe. Pick a printed dress with sandals.
And add a jacket for some chilly wind protection as the weather in water can get unpredictable.
This ankle-length dress is the perfect mix of fun and classy. The silk material will keep you cool on a hot day, and the ankle length will prevent any wardrobe malfunctions on the boat. The bright print is perfect for a daytime office party but can also be dressed up with heels for an evening event.
- Sizes: 0 - 18
Printed Silk Pants + Off Shoulder Top + Sandals
Finding the right pants for a boat party can be tricky, but these high-waisted silk trousers are the perfect solution. They are lightweight and flowy, providing comfort and breathability while looking polished and professional. And the off the shoulder top is the exact thing you need to take the look up a notch and feel like an elegant business woman.
Sequin top and White bottoms
If your work party is going into the night, then this glammed-up look is perfect for you. Pair a sequin top with a long white skirt for a dramatic effect. You’ll look like the boss babe that you are while still being appropriate for the occasion.
The high neckline looks great with a classic updo and a bold lip. The white bottoms help balance out the shimmer from the top, making this outfit perfect for a boat party setting.
V Neck Satin Top + Printed Pants
If you’re headed to the party straight from the office, this outfit is a perfect transitional look. Pair a classic black blouse with patterned pants for a chic yet comfortable option. The top is perfect for if there is a bit of a breeze on the boat, and the patterned pants add a touch of personality to your look.
Straight from the boardroom to the boat party, this outfit will have you looking and feeling confident.
Casual Boat Party Outfit Ideas
Swimwear + Matching Knit Dress + Sandals
This cobalt blue dress will make a statement at any casual boat party. The jacquard material adds a touch of sophistication, while the plunging neckline and the ring detail add a playful touch. Pair it with cute sandals and a straw hat for the ultimate beachy vibe.
White Cotton Maxi Dress + Sunglasses + Silk Scarf
These puff sleeves are the perfect detail for a day of sipping champagne while cruising around the Mediterranean Sea. The cream color is perfect for a sunny day, and the flowy material will keep you comfortable in the warm weather.
- Sizes: S - L
Floral Matching Top And Pants
Straight from the resort to the boat, a floral pantsuit is an easy breezy choice for a casual boat party with friends. The vibrant print and lightweight material will give you all the summer vibes while keeping you cool in the sun.
This is one of my go-to looks when I’m in the Caribbean and know we are going for sundowners on the boat after a day at the beach.
White Crop Top + Crochet Skirt
If you want to embrace a boho-chic look on your next yacht party, this white crop top and crochet skirt combo is the way to go. The flowy top and intricate crochet details add a free-spirited vibe, while the high-waisted skirt is perfect for flaunting your curves on deck. Complete the look with some strappy sandals and beachy waves in your hair.
Linen Tunic + Long Skirt
This feels like the ultimate Hamptons sailing outfit! The linen tunic and long skirt combo are effortlessly chic and perfect for a day out at sea. The long tunic brings old money vibes, while the flowy skirt adds a touch of romance. Don’t forget to accessorize with some oversized sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the sun.
Cocktail Boat Party Outfit Ideas
Flowy Red Dress + Sandals
This red dress is the epitome of elegance and sophistication, making it perfect for a cocktail boat party. The flowy fabric and ruffled details add a touch of drama, while the deep V-neckline and high slit show just the right amount of skin.
Long Black Dress
This long black dress is the perfect balance of sexy and classy, making it a great choice for a cocktail boat party. The scoop neckline and long sleeves balance out the sex appeal, while the fitted silhouette adds just the right amount of drama. Pair it with some statement earrings for a touch of glamor.
- Sizes: XXS - 4X
One Shoulder Dress + Sandals
This feminine and elegant dress is perfect for a cocktail boat party. The one-shoulder design brings uniqueness to the dress, while the thigh slit adds a sexy element to the look. The soft nude color complements all skin tones, and the flower print gives it some sparkle.
The midi length is both sophisticated and practical for a boat party, as it allows you to move freely without worrying about your dress getting wet or blown away by the wind.
- Sizes: XXS - 4X
Colorful Midi Wrap Skirt + Crop Top
This is the perfect skirt for sailing through the tropics. The wrap design allows you to adjust the fit and adds a spicy touch to the outfit. The bright and bold print feels very “Havana nights” and will definitely turn heads.
Pair it with a white crop top or a colorful bikini top for a fun and flirty look. The midi length is great for staying covered, but the slit will allow you to show some skin when you want.
