Getting married on a boat is one of the most memorable and romantic ways to say “I do.” With sunsets, waves, and champagne, it blends adventure and intimacy perfectly. Picture yourself exchanging vows on the open water, with the gentle sway of the boat beneath you and the vast expanse of the sea stretching out before you. This unique setting is the perfect backdrop for a once-in-a-lifetime moment. But how do you actually plan a boat wedding? What’s legal, what’s practical, and what makes it magical? This guide will help you navigate the process of planning the perfect boat wedding.
Why Get Married on a Boat in 2025?
When it comes to destination weddings, getting married on a boat offers numerous benefits that make it an unforgettable experience. Here are a few reasons why this trend is set to grow in 2025.
- Combine wedding, venue, and honeymoon in one booking — One of the biggest advantages of a boat wedding is that it combines your ceremony, reception, and honeymoon all in one booking. You don’t need to worry about finding a venue, booking a honeymoon destination, and coordinating travel. Everything is handled in one seamless experience. It’s ultimate value for the experience, and you get to enjoy the adventure without the stress of handling separate arrangements.
- Smaller guest lists = more intimacy and lower cost — Boat weddings are perfect for those looking to keep the guest list small. Most boats have limited space, so you’re naturally limited to a more intimate gathering. This smaller guest list can also reduce costs, allowing you to allocate your budget to other meaningful aspects of your wedding, such as a private dinner or premium drinks for your guests.
- Unique, Instagram-worthy setting that’s unforgettable — A wedding at sea offers a dramatic, picturesque setting that few venues can match. The backdrop of the open water, especially at sunset, creates a stunning visual that will make your wedding photos truly memorable. It’s the perfect opportunity for Instagram-worthy shots that will be cherished for years to come.
- Sailing offers unmatched calm and romance (plus stress relief on the big day) — Getting married on a boat offers a level of tranquility and serenity that can be hard to achieve in traditional wedding venues. The gentle motion of the boat and the sounds of the waves provide a peaceful atmosphere, helping to reduce stress and increase relaxation on the big day.
- Explore wedding-friendly destinations like Croatia, the Caribbean, Greece, and the Balearics — A wedding at sea opens up a variety of exciting and romantic destinations. Whether you dream of the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, the rugged coastlines of Greece, or the picturesque landscapes of Croatia, getting married on a boat allows you to choose from some of the most beautiful locations in the world.
Is It Legal to Get Married on a Boat? It Depends.
One of the most common questions for couples getting married on a boat is whether it’s legal to get married at sea. The short answer is that it depends on several factors, including where you are and the type of boat you’re on.
- Myth-busting: Captains can’t always officiate legally binding weddings — It’s a common myth that boat captains can officiate weddings and make them legally binding. However, this isn’t always the case. In most instances, a captain can only perform a symbolic ceremony unless they are an ordained minister or a legally recognized officiant. It’s essential to check whether the captain has the legal authority to officiate a wedding in the specific location where you’re getting married.
- Most couples choose a civil ceremony at home, then a symbolic wedding at sea — To avoid the complexity of navigating local marriage laws, many couples opt for a civil ceremony at home to legally formalize their marriage. Once this is done, they can enjoy a symbolic ceremony at sea, where they can exchange vows surrounded by the beauty of the ocean and the people they love. This way, you can have your dream wedding on a boat without worrying about legal complexities at sea.
- Some cruise lines or charter services may offer legal options — If you’re set on having a legally binding ceremony on a boat, some cruise lines and charter services offer legally recognized wedding packages. These packages may allow you to be married at sea with the marriage recognized under the jurisdiction of the country where the boat is registered.
Summary of key legality factors: To ensure your wedding is legally recognized, make sure to take into account the location of the ceremony, the boat registry, the status of the officiant, and the recognition of the marriage by your home country.
Boat Wedding Options: From Private Yachts to Cruise Ship Ceremonies
There are two primary options for couples planning a wedding on a boat: a private yacht or a cruise ship. Each has its own set of advantages, and your choice will depend on your preferences and budget.
Option 1: Private Boat or Yacht Charter
- More romantic and personalized — A private yacht or boat offers a more intimate and personalized experience for couples who want to create a one-of-a-kind wedding day. With full control over the guest list, décor, timing, and menu, you can customize every aspect of your wedding to reflect your personality and style.
- Flexible guest list, décor, dining, music, and timing — One of the key benefits of chartering a private yacht or boat is flexibility. You can choose your guest list, design the perfect wedding décor, select your ideal menu, and even create a personalized playlist to set the mood. You also have control over timing, allowing you to plan your wedding to suit your ideal schedule.
- Must plan in advance for services (food, celebrant, permits) — While a private boat wedding offers flexibility, it also requires a higher level of planning. Make sure to coordinate with your boat rental company to arrange services such as catering, an officiant, permits, and transportation. Planning ahead ensures that everything runs smoothly on your wedding day.
Option 2: Cruise Ship Weddings
- More structured, less planning stress — If you prefer a more structured experience with less planning involved, a cruise ship wedding might be the perfect choice for you. Many major cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises, offer pre-arranged wedding packages that include everything you need, from the officiant to the reception.
- Some cruise captains are authorized to officiate — Unlike private boats, some cruise captains are legally authorized to officiate weddings at sea, providing a hassle-free way to marry legally while enjoying the experience of a cruise wedding.
- Packages offered by Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, etc. — Cruise lines offer a variety of wedding packages, which can include everything from ceremony décor to photography services. These packages are often more affordable than private yacht charters and take care of most of the logistics for you.
Tips for Planning a Boat Wedding
Getting married on a boat is a dream for many sea lovers and planning a boat wedding can be a unique and exciting process, but there are several things you need to consider to ensure your day is perfect.
- Decide legal vs. symbolic early on — It’s important to decide early whether you want a legal ceremony or a symbolic one. If you want a legal ceremony, make sure to understand the legal requirements of the destination and ensure the officiant is authorized to perform the ceremony.
- Book the right boat size and style (ask Borrow A Boat experts!) — Choosing the right boat is crucial for your wedding. Whether you prefer a luxurious yacht or a smaller, more intimate boat, make sure it suits your needs and the size of your guest list. If you’re unsure, consult with experts like Borrow A Boat to find the best fit.
- Consider season and weather in your destination — The weather can significantly impact your boat wedding. Make sure to plan your wedding for the best time of year in your chosen destination to avoid bad weather. Always have a backup plan in case of rain or high winds.
- Stock champagne, music, and essentials ahead of time — Don’t forget the little details! Make sure to stock the boat with champagne, music, and any other essentials like decorations or special wedding items.
- Add extras like a hotel pickup, photographer, or catered dinner — Consider adding extra touches, such as a photographer to capture the moments, a professional to arrange your décor, or even a catered dinner to enjoy after the ceremony.
Pros and Cons of a Wedding at Sea
A boat wedding offers numerous benefits, but there are a few potential drawbacks to consider.
Pros
- Built-in honeymoon vibes.
- Cost-effective: venue, travel, and event in one.
- Dreamy, once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere.
- Smaller, meaningful guest list.
Cons
- Legal hurdles and paperwork.
- Seasickness or accessibility concerns for guests.
- Limited space for large events.
- Must plan well ahead.
Final Thoughts: Say “I Do” on the Sea
Whether symbolic or legal, boat weddings are unforgettable. Combine travel, celebration, and intimacy in one unique package. Let Borrow A Boat experts help you plan your perfect day — they’ll handle the logistics so you can enjoy the moment.
Ready to say “I do” at sea? Charter your dream wedding boat with Borrow A Boat — explore romantic destinations, find the perfect yacht, and let love set sail in 2025.
