When it comes to boating adventures, simplicity is key. As you embark on your next voyage, having a selection of easy boat snacks on hand will ensure that you and your crew avoid the “hangry” mood that a day on the water can bring. These snacks are quick to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and will hopefully save you from unnecessary docking throughout your day.
When in doubt, ensure that everything in your cooler follows these rules:
- No fuss, no mess
- Variety – Ensure there’s something for everyone onboard
- Healthy options are included – hours of sun can lead to quick dehydration if you’re not careful.
1. Pre-Cut Fresh Fruit
For a refreshing and effortless snack, pre-cut fresh fruits are a perfect choice. Slice up an assortment of watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, or fruits of your choice. Pack them in sealed containers or ziplock bags for easy access. These bite-sized snacks are not only hydrating but also provide essential vitamins.
- Avoid anything with peels or seeds, as this could break your “no fuss/no mess” rule
- Multitask your menu – Fruits like berries, nectarines and apples will pair beautifully with your meat and cheese board (see later in the blog)
2. Ready-Made Snack Packs and Chips
You can find a wide range of pre-packaged snack options that are perfect for boating adventures. While bags of chips are a great option, also look for snack packs that include a combination of nuts, dried fruits, and seeds. These ready-made packs are convenient, portable, and provide a mix of flavors.
- Remember to bring favorites for all age groups – your six-year-old niece may not appreciate dill-pickle chips as much as your thirteen-year-old son does.
- Reminder – no fuss, no mess – Orange Cheezy dust may not look as fabulous as it tastes when it’s smudged all over the interior of your brand-new Malibu®.
- Avoid chocolate!
3. Cheese, Crackers, and Charcuterie
A classic and effortless boat snack. Cheese, crackers, and assorted meats are simple yet satisfying. Choose your cheese, pick a few favorites, pair it with sturdy crackers, then hit the deli. For added convenience, you can purchase pre-sliced cheese or cheese sticks as well as pre-cut meats.
- During the day, these snacks are filling enough to get one more surf in before lunch. In the evening, they pair exceptionally well with on-water beverages for a sunset cruise.
4. Hummus and Veggie Sticks
For a healthy and easy-to-prepare snack, pack some hummus along with an assortment of veggie sticks. Slice carrots, celery, cucumber, bell peppers, or any other crunchy vegetables and store them in a sealed container. Hummus is available in single-serve containers, making it a healthy, hassle-free dip option.
5. Wraps and Roll-Ups
Prepare simple wraps or roll-ups for a quick and filling boat snack. Choose your favorite deli meat or hummus, add some lettuce, tomato slices, and condiments, and roll them up in tortillas or wraps. These can be sliced into smaller portions for easy handling. If you’re in a time pinch, many grocery stores offer ready-made versions of these.
Boom! Nailing all three:
- There’s something for everyone onboard
- Healthy options are included – hours of sun can lead to quick dehydration if you’re not careful.
- No fuss, no mess
6. Snacks for Your 4-Legged First Mate
Remember your pet. If you’re still training your 4-legged crew member, you’ll want the extra treats to help reinforce on-board obedience.
7. Refreshing Beverages:
Don’t forget to hydrate! Pack a cooler with a selection of chilled beverages, such as water, sparkling water, or fruit-infused drinks. Choose drinks that are easy to open and consumable without any spills.
- Reminder – if your cooler includes dehydrating beverages, bring extra beverages that hydrate
The goal is to get on the water, enjoy it and keep everyone on-board happy and healthy. All of the above snacks should take only minutes to pull together and/or shop for.
If it’s a hassle to make or will add stress to your day, scratch it off your prep list.
Happy snacking!
Units With Picnic-Friendly Features
If the picnic portion of your day on the water is important to you, consider a boat that makes dining on board effortless.
Barletta® pontoon boats are made for entertaining. If this is a big part of your life on the water, consider the following features & units.
- Towboats
- LSV Series – Rear facing seats & built-in table
- MXZ – Multi-view wake bench that transforms into a snack area
