Planning a yacht party involves more than just setting the date and inviting your guests. One of the key elements that can make or break the event is the food. Knowing the best food to bring on a yacht party can ensure that your guests are well-fed, happy, and ready to enjoy the day out on the water. Here are some fantastic snack and meal ideas that are perfect for a yacht party, taking into account convenience, taste, and ease of preparation.
Mediterranean Mezze Platter
A Mediterranean mezze platter is an excellent choice for a yacht party. It’s light, and refreshing, and offers a variety of flavors that can please any palate. Include items like hummus, pita bread, tzatziki, olives, stuffed grape leaves, feta cheese, and fresh vegetables. This platter is not only healthy but also easy to prepare and serve. Guests can graze on it throughout the party, making it a perfect option for both casual snacking and more substantial bites.
Sushi Platter
Sushi is another fantastic option for yacht parties. It’s elegant, easy to eat, and always a hit with guests. Prepare a variety of rolls, including vegetarian options, to cater to different dietary preferences. Don’t forget to include soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. You can also add some tempura or sashimi to the mix for variety. Sushi is ideal because it’s bite-sized, mess-free, and can be served cold, making it perfect for a day on the water.
Barbecue Skewers
Barbecue skewers are perfect for a yacht party as they are easy to eat and require no utensils. You can prepare a variety of skewers, including chicken, beef, shrimp, and vegetable options. Marinate the meats beforehand and cook them on a portable grill on the yacht. Serve with dipping sauces like tzatziki, barbecue sauce, or chimichurri for added flavor. Skewers are versatile, filling, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Fresh Fruit Platter
A fresh fruit platter is a must-have for any yacht party. It’s refreshing, and hydrating, and offers a natural sweetness that everyone can enjoy. Include a variety of fruits like watermelon, pineapple, strawberries, grapes, and blueberries. To add a special touch, you can create fruit kabobs or serve the fruit in a hollowed-out watermelon for a visually appealing presentation. This is a healthy and delicious snack option that is easy to prepare and perfect for hot days on the water.
Cheese and Charcuterie Board
A well-curated cheese and charcuterie board is a sophisticated and delightful addition to your yacht party menu. Include a variety of cheeses such as brie, cheddar, gouda, and blue cheese, along with cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and chorizo. Add some crackers, nuts, olives, and dried fruits to complete the board. This option is great because it requires minimal preparation and can be tailored to suit different tastes and dietary restrictions.
Wraps and Sandwiches
Wraps and sandwiches are practical and satisfying options for a yacht party. They are easy to eat, can be prepared in advance, and offer endless possibilities for fillings. Consider options like grilled chicken wraps, turkey and avocado sandwiches, or vegetarian wraps with hummus and roasted vegetables. Use a variety of breads and tortillas to keep things interesting. These handheld options are perfect for mingling and enjoying the party without the need for plates and utensils.
Seafood Platter
Given the nautical setting, a seafood platter is a fitting and luxurious choice. Include items like shrimp cocktails, crab legs, smoked salmon, and oysters. Serve with lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, and mignonette. This not only adds an element of elegance to your party but also provides fresh and flavorful options that are sure to impress your guests. Ensure you have plenty of napkins and wet wipes, as seafood can be a bit messy.
Salads
Salads are a versatile and refreshing addition to any yacht party menu. Opt for hearty salads that can serve as a side dish or a main course. Some great options include a classic Caesar salad, a Greek salad, or a quinoa salad with vegetables and feta cheese. Prepare the salads in advance and store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. Serve with a variety of dressings on the side to cater to different preferences.
Desserts
No party is complete without dessert. Choose desserts that are easy to serve and eat, such as cookies, brownies, or cupcakes. You can also prepare a fruit tart or cheesecake for a more decadent option. For a refreshing twist, consider serving sorbet or ice cream in small, individual portions. Make sure to keep desserts cool to prevent melting, especially if it’s a hot day.
Beverages
Beverages are a crucial part of your yacht party menu. Along with plenty of water, offer a selection of soft drinks, juices, and alcoholic beverages. Consider creating a signature cocktail that matches your party’s theme. Provide coolers and ice to keep the drinks chilled throughout the day. For a touch of elegance, serve sparkling water and wine.
Easy Finger Foods
Finger foods are essential for any yacht party. Think bite-sized appetizers that are easy to pick up and eat while mingling. Mini quiches, stuffed mushrooms, bruschetta, and sliders are excellent choices. These items can be prepared ahead of time and are perfect for casual snacking throughout the event. Plus, they add variety to your menu, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Dips and Chips
Dips and chips are a classic, crowd-pleasing option. Offer a selection of dips such as guacamole, salsa, queso, and spinach-artichoke dip. Pair them with a variety of chips, including tortilla chips, pita chips, and vegetable sticks. This setup is easy to prepare and maintain, allowing guests to help themselves whenever they want a quick snack.
Gourmet Sliders
Gourmet sliders are another fantastic addition to your yacht party menu. These mini burgers are fun to eat and can be customized with a variety of toppings. Offer options like beef, chicken, or veggie patties with an assortment of cheeses, sauces, and fresh toppings. This allows guests to create their perfect slider, adding a personalized touch to your party.
How Empire Cruises Can Help
At Empire Cruises, we understand that hosting a memorable yacht party requires attention to every detail, especially the food. We offer catering services tailored to your needs, ensuring that you have the perfect menu for your event. Our experienced team can help you select and prepare the ideal food to bring to a yacht party, taking the stress out of planning. We are here to make sure your yacht party is not only enjoyable but also unforgettable.
Our yachts are equipped with modern amenities and professional staff to assist you throughout your event. From setup to cleanup, we handle everything, so you can focus on enjoying the time with your guests. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a more formal celebration, we can provide the perfect setting and support for your yacht party.
By choosing Empire Cruises, you ensure a seamless and delightful experience for both you and your guests. Our commitment to excellence means you can relax and enjoy the beautiful views of NYC while we take care of the rest. Your yacht party will be a hit with our expert guidance and exceptional service. Let us help you create an event that everyone will remember for years to come.