As a bartender, I've had the pleasure of serving drinks to countless customers over the years. But there's something special about mixing drinks on a boat.
Maybe it's the salty sea air, the gentle rocking of the waves, or the sense of adventure that comes with being out on the open water. Whatever it is, there's no denying that the right drink can make a day on the water even more enjoyable.
Of course, not all drinks are created equal when it comes to boating. You need something that's refreshing, easy to make, and won't leave you feeling too tipsy to steer the boat.
That's why I've put together this list of the best boat cocktail recipes. These drinks are perfect for sipping on while you soak up the sun or watch the sunset over the water.
Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-time boater, these cocktail recipes are sure to please.
From fruity concoctions to classic favorites, there's something for everyone on this list. So grab your shaker, stock up on ice, and let's get mixing!
1. Amaretto Aloha Cocktail
The Amaretto Aloha Cocktail is a tropical drink that brings back memories of sailing through the Hawaiian Islands. This cocktail combines the flavors of Amaretto and pineapple juice to create a refreshing and delicious drink that will transport you to the warm ocean breezes of Hawaii.
It's the perfect cocktail to enjoy on a boat or any summer day. If you're a fan of fruity cocktails, this one is definitely worth trying.
2. The Beachy Bourbon
"The Beachy Bourbon" is a refreshing and lighter version of the classic bourbon cocktail, perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. This cocktail is a specialty creation for a beach wedding in Costa Rica, where the groom requested bourbon as the main ingredient.
The recipe combines bourbon with bright and refreshing ingredients, making it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a bourbon cocktail without feeling weighed down by the heat. Overall, "The Beachy Bourbon" is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and unique twist on the classic bourbon cocktail.
3. Hurricane Cocktail
The Hurricane Cocktail is a bright and fruity cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise with just one sip. Made with white rum, grenadine, orange juice, and lime juice, this cocktail is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors.
Garnished with orange slices and maraschino cherries, the Hurricane Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious drink that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're lounging on a boat or enjoying a summer barbecue, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So why not try the Hurricane Cocktail for your next boat party and let the good times roll!
4. Hurricane
The Hurricane is a classic New Orleans cocktail that is a must-try for any boat party. This sweet and fruity drink is made with light and dark rum, passion fruit juice, orange juice, lime juice, and grenadine. It's traditionally served in a tulip-shaped glass and garnished with a slice of orange and a cherry.
The Hurricane is a perfect cocktail for those who love a sweet and tropical taste. It's easy to make and will transport you to the lively streets of New Orleans. Don't miss out on this delicious cocktail at your next boat party.
5. Ocean Breeze Cocktail
The Ocean Breeze Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make tropical drink that is perfect for any summer occasion. Made with blue curacao, rum, and lemonade, this cocktail is a beautiful blue color that will transport you to the beach with just one sip.
The citrusy flavor of the blue curacao pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the lemonade, while the rum adds a nice kick to the drink. Whether you're sipping it by the pool or serving it at a backyard BBQ, the Ocean Breeze Cocktail is sure to be a hit with your guests. So break out the chips and guacamole and mix up a batch of this delicious cocktail for your next summer party!
6. Jungle Bird Cocktail
The Jungle Bird Cocktail is a tiki drink that is perfect for a summer day out on the boat. Made with dark rum, Campari, lime juice, pineapple juice, and a chipotle simple syrup, this cocktail is both potent and refreshing. The smokiness of the chipotle adds a unique twist to the drink, while the pineapple juice balances out the bitterness of the Campari.
The garnish of a pineapple wedge and cherry impaled with a pineapple leaf adds a fun and tropical touch to the drink. If you're looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make cocktail to enjoy on your next boat trip, the Jungle Bird Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
7. Pink Elephant Cocktail
The Pink Elephant Cocktail is a perfect addition to any boat party. This whimsical pink cocktail has a vodka base and is made with Fentimans' rose lemonade, giving it a baby pink color. A twist of lime juice adds a sharp kick to the sweet and floral flavors.
The quality of the vodka used in this cocktail is crucial, and the Aval Dor Vodka used in this recipe is a premium 'plough to bottle' vodka made from the finest King Edward potatoes grown by Colwith Farm. This cocktail is perfect for those who want a fun and flavorful drink with a cheeky kick. Serve it up in a big pitcher, poured over ice, and enjoy responsibly.
8. Salty Dog Cocktail
The Salty Dog Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for a day out on the boat. Made with grapefruit juice, vodka, and a hint of salt and lime, this cocktail is a great alternative to a traditional margarita.
The combination of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a favorite among many beachgoers. It's a simple yet delicious cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. The Salty Dog Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing and flavorful drink while enjoying the sun and sea.
9. Coconut, Lime, and Gin Cocktail
The Coconut, Lime, and Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and simple recipe that is perfect for a day out on the boat. This cocktail, said to be a favorite of Ernest Hemingway himself, combines the tropical flavors of coconut and lime with the boldness of gin.
The lightness of the drink allows for experimentation with different gin flavors, making it a versatile option for any gin lover.
For those looking to mix things up, the recipe can be easily customized by adding more lime juice or experimenting with different bitters.
The Coconut, Lime, and Gin Cocktail is a perfect addition to any boat day, offering a taste of the islands and a refreshing break from the heat.
10. Death in the Afternoon
"Death in the Afternoon" is a classic cocktail invented by Ernest Hemingway. It's a perfect blend of Absinthe and Champagne, creating a unique flavor that is both refreshing and sophisticated.
The addition of a sugar cube adds a touch of sweetness to the cocktail. If you're looking for a classic and modern cocktail, then "Death in the Afternoon" is definitely worth trying.
11. Dark 'N' Stormy
The Dark 'N' Stormy is a classic cocktail that blends Gosling's Black Seal rum with ginger beer. The sweetness of the rum is perfectly complemented by the spice and flavor of the ginger beer, making it a perfect cocktail for any occasion.
It's incredibly easy to make, and its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a great choice for any occasion.
12. Beach Blossom Rum Cocktail
The Beach Blossom Rum Cocktail is a sweet and tart, fruity, and slightly floral pink drink made with white rum, coconut, guava, pineapple, citrus, and a touch of orange flower water. The guava syrup gives it a potent, authentic guava flavor and stunning pink color.
It's easy to make and perfect for sipping on a boat while enjoying the warm summer breeze. If you love Pina Coladas or other classic tropical summer cocktails, this one is a must-try!
13. Malibu Sunset
If you're looking for a tropical cocktail that will transport you to an island paradise, look no further than the Malibu Sunset. This vibrant drink is made with just three ingredients: pineapple juice, coconut rum, and homemade grenadine syrup.
The layers of color in this cocktail are sure to catch your eye and the fruity flavors will have you feeling like you're lounging on a beach somewhere. Whether you're hosting a summer party or just want to treat yourself to a refreshing drink, the Malibu Sunset is a must-try. So grab a glass, add some ice, and get ready to sip on a taste of the tropics.
14. White Lady Cocktail
The White Lady Cocktail is a classic gin-based cocktail that is perfect for a boat party. This refreshing cocktail is nicely balanced and has a wonderful foam that sits perfectly on top. It is similar to a gin-based Side Car Cocktail and is also known as the Chelsea Side Car or Delilah.
The White Lady Cocktail is great for your afternoon happy hour or after-dinner drinks. If you are looking for a light and refreshing cocktail that will impress your guests, the White Lady Cocktail is a must-try.
15. Bahama Mama
The Bahama Mama is a fruity rum cocktail that combines tropical flavors of coconut, orange juice, pineapple juice, and coffee liqueur. This rum-forward drink is perfect for anyone looking for a vacation in a glass.
The addition of coffee liqueur might seem unusual, but it adds a unique depth to the cocktail that balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients. It's a fun and aesthetically pleasing drink that's perfect for hosting or treating yourself to. The Bahama Mama is a must-try for anyone who loves fruity cocktails with a bit of a kick.
16. El Presidente Cocktail
The El Presidente Cocktail is a Cuban classic that deserves a spot in every cocktail lover's repertoire. Made with aged rum, vermouth blanc, orange liqueur, and grenadine, this boozy stirred cocktail is more like a Manhattan than a sour cocktail. The unique combination of ingredients gives it a subtly bitter, sweet, and citrusy flavor that is unlike any other cocktail.
The use of aged rum brings a nuanced flavor with undertones of vanilla, coconut, almond, citrus, or caramel. This sophisticated and complex cocktail is perfect for sipping on a boat while enjoying the beautiful scenery. If you're looking for a slow sipper that's different from the usual rum cocktails, give the El Presidente a try.
17. Blood Orange Margaritas
One of the standout cocktails in the Boat Cocktail recipe collection is the Blood Orange Margarita. This vibrant drink is a refreshing twist on the classic margarita, with the addition of freshly squeezed blood orange juice. The blood oranges not only give the drink a stunning color but also add a unique flavor with a hint of berry.
This cocktail is perfect for those who love a good margarita but want to try something new and exciting. The recipe is easy to follow and can be made in batches, making it perfect for entertaining. If you're looking for a delicious and visually stunning cocktail to impress your guests, the Blood Orange Margarita is a must-try.
18. Tequila Breakfast Mimosa
The Tequila Breakfast Mimosa is a unique twist on the classic brunch cocktail. This cocktail combines the sweetness of fresh grapefruit juice with the bold flavor of tequila, making it a perfect choice for those who love a little kick in their drink.
The addition of Prosecco gives it a bubbly finish, making it a refreshing and light drink. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for the flavors to truly shine through. If you're looking to impress your guests with a new brunch cocktail, the Tequila Breakfast Mimosa is definitely worth a try.
19. Rum Punch Mimosa
If you're looking for a cocktail that can transport you to a tropical paradise, look no further than the Rum Punch Mimosa. This cocktail combines the classic mimosa with the flavors of a traditional rum punch, resulting in a delicious and refreshing drink that's perfect for any occasion. Made with rum, pineapple juice, grenadine, and champagne, this cocktail is a great choice for brunch, dinner, or even as a dessert.
The combination of flavors is sure to please even the most discerning palates, and the addition of champagne adds a touch of elegance to this already impressive cocktail. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a delicious drink to enjoy on your boat, the Rum Punch Mimosa is a must-try cocktail that's sure to impress.
20. Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco
If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make boat cocktail, Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco is a must-try. This cocktail combines the sweetness of raspberries with the tanginess of lemon and the fizziness of prosecco. It's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a summer party or a cozy night in.
The recipe calls for just four simple ingredients, making it a quick and easy cocktail to whip up. The best part? You can easily substitute the prosecco with sparkling rosé for a different twist. Overall, Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco is a delicious and versatile cocktail that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings.
21. Pineapple Mojito
The Pineapple Mojito is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that's perfect for summer parties and gatherings. This cocktail is a twist on the classic mojito, with the addition of fresh pineapple chunks that add a tropical sweetness to the drink.
The cocktail is made in a pitcher, making it a great option for serving a group of people. The Pineapple Mojito is a great choice for those who love fruity cocktails with a hint of mint. If you're looking for a fun and easy cocktail to serve at your next boat party, the Pineapple Mojito is definitely worth a try!
22. Giggle Juice
Looking for a fun and fruity cocktail to share with friends on a boat? Look no further than Giggle Juice! This fizzy and fantastically fun cocktail is a perfect choice for those looking to add some giggles to their boat ride. Made with sweet Moscato wine, tart lemonade, and citrus vodka, this cocktail is sure to leave you feeling light and bubbly.
The addition of fresh sliced strawberries and lemon adds a delicious touch of fruitiness to the mix. Plus, with its easy-to-make recipe, you'll have more time to enjoy the summer sun and laughs with your friends. So, grab a glass, pour yourself some Giggle Juice, and get ready to giggle the day away on your boat ride!
23. Paloma Aperol Spritz
The Paloma Aperol Spritz is a refreshing summer cocktail made with Aperol, grapefruit soda, tequila, fresh lime juice, and topped with prosecco. The combination of Aperol and grapefruit soda creates a sweet and slightly bitter taste that pairs perfectly with the kick of tequila.
The addition of lime juice gives it a tangy twist, making it a perfect thirst-quencher on a hot day. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to serve on your boat, the Paloma Aperol Spritz is definitely worth a try.
24. Paloma Cocktail
The Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing and fizzy tequila-based drink that is perfect for a hot summer day on a boat. This low-calorie cocktail is a favorite in Mexico and is like a bubbly margarita. The main ingredients are tequila and grapefruit, but there are variations that can be made to suit individual preferences.
The Paloma Cocktail is easy to make and can be served with crushed ice and a lime wedge for an extra citrus kick. If you're looking to experiment with tequila drinks or want a break from the traditional margarita, the Paloma Cocktail is a must-try. So, grab a glass and enjoy the fruity and fizzy flavors of this delicious cocktail while cruising on your boat.
25. Pear Vanilla Gin Fizz
The Pear Vanilla Gin Fizz is a refreshing and elegant cocktail made with a homemade pear and vanilla simple syrup, gin, and soda water.
The combination of juicy pears, vanilla, and gin creates a perfectly balanced flavor that is both sweet and refreshing. The cocktail is garnished with a thinly sliced pear and a vanilla sugar rim for an extra touch of sweetness.
26. Paper Plane
Looking for a cocktail that packs a punch and is dangerously sessionable? Look no further than the Paper Plane cocktail. Equal parts Aperol, bourbon, Amaro, and fresh squeezed lemon juice, this lesser-known cocktail is a modern take on the pre-prohibition cocktail "The Last Word".
Invented by bartender Sam Ross in 2007, the Paper Plane has a certain balance to it that makes it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast. While it may not have much in common with its predecessor, the Paper Plane stands on its own as a delicious and unique cocktail that is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and see for yourself what all the fuss is about?
