Complete Guide for Planning the Best Hen/Stag Party on a Boat
Hen/Stag Season is Starting!
Hen/stag parties (or bachelor parties) mark a special occasion to celebrate the transition from single life to a special new chapter.
Planning a bachelor party is an exciting endeavor, and what better way to celebrate than aboard a boat in a stunning coastal atmosphere? With azure waters, golden sands, and vibrant atmosphere and landscape, Marbella is one of the places that offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable celebration.
Why are Hen/Stag Parties popular on a boat?
Hen/Stag parties in general gained popularity in the western world in the 90’s, while some suggest that the first pre-wedding celebrations date back as far as Spartan civilization, where soldiers would host a feast for the groom the night before his wedding as a farewell to honor his commitment to his future wife and also ancient Greece, when brides would celebrate along with her mother, female family relatives and friends.
Boat parties are now top of mind when looking for a memorable hen/stag party. They became popular due to their unique experience combined with a variety of water activities, which differs from traditional land-based venues. Guests feel like VIPs as they enjoy the exclusive setting and amenities offered onboard.
To ensure your celebration it’s successful, we’ve compiled a list of 16 key tips that will guarantee an unforgettable experience aboard, based on our years of experience, plus some extra tips.
Tips before booking
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Plan your Date 📅
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Confirm your Guest List 📜
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Plan your Itinerary 📍🗺️
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Budget Allocation 💰
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Choose the Perfect Boat ⛵🚤
Once you have the confirmed guest list, the next thing to do is decide on the boat type. Select a boat that suits your group size, offers desired amenities like a spacious deck, and fits within your budget.
Boats range in size, type, capacity, speed, and many other ways. Familiarize yourself with the specifications of the boat you are considering, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
If you plan on doing watersports, they can vary from snorkel, paddle boarding, tube, wakeboard, waterski, jetski etc. If your celebration is focused on fishing, opt for a dedicated fishing boat.
Types of boats you can choose from:
- Boats without skipper (you can drive it yourself with a valid boat license)
- License-free boats (you can drive it yourself without a license)
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Incorporate Fun Water Activities 🏄
Ensure there’s a balance of activities to cater to everyone’s tastes and ensure maximum enjoyment for all.
Keep the energy levels high and enjoy the sea to the fullest with a variety of engaging water activities, from paddleboarding to riding a jetski.
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Book in Advance 📅
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Have a Backup Plan 💡
Tips after booking
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Plan for Food and Drinks 🥪🥂
Our packages included water, soft drinks, beers, cava, white wine, rosé and light snacks: fruits, chips, spanish olives, mixed nuts. On request, we can offer lunch options from reliable catering partners.
Check with your boat company’s rules on bringing extrernal food aboard.
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Sandwiches
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Charcuterie board or simple cheese and crackers
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Fruits
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Cakes or cupcakes (custom designed with your theme)
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Chips or popcorn
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Hummus and crackers
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Bottled water
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Plan Entertainment ♫
Enhance the atmosphere with music, whether it’s hiring a DJ, saxophonist, or curating a playlist of your favorite songs. Your boat will likely have a sound system that you can connect to. Confirm with your captain the method for connecting your playlist so you can enjoy your favorite tunes throughout the day. Make the group participate in creating a custom playlist.
Add a touch of excitement to the day with surprise treats, games, or activities for the bride-to-be/groom-to-be. Most importantly, consider her/his interests and preferences when planning special surprises. A very popular fun surprise is a Stripper/Stiptease or a Cheeky Butler. They will delight the atmosphere.
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What to Pack 🎒
Pack essentials such as sunscreen, towels, snacks, and plenty of water (if not included onboard) to stay hydrated throughout the day. If you plan to enjoy some drinks aboard, remember to check the boat’s policy on alcohol and whether it’s allowed to bring your own.
Essentials to bring in your bag:
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Sunglasses
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Suncream (don’t be the sunburnt one in all the wedding photos:) )
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Towels (ask if they offer onboard)
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Any needed/prescribed medications
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Seasickness pills
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Change of clothes
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A waterproof case for your phone in case you want to use it underwater
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Camera: Whether you use your phone or a waterproof camera, take plenty of photos!
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Never pack glassware on boats. A dropped glass cup can cause injuries for guests, the crew, boat equipment, and marine life. Most boats have plastic cups and cutlery onboard, but if not, you can bring them. Ask the boat company before.
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What to Wear 🩱
If it’s hot season, definitely swimwear is a must. But make it fun!
Set the tone by encouraging guests to dress in theme to enhance the atmosphere and create memorable and fabulous photos! Whether it’s nautical chic or beach vibes, coordinating outfits add an extra touch of fun to the celebration. Matching swimsuits are definitely a hit and perfect for an Instagramable shot. Also matching temporary tattoos are popular and low-budget.
Coming up with a cool theme party is one of the most fun aspects of planning a hen/stag party. 🎉 Here are a few ideas to get you started:
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Tropical/Hawaiian
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Nautical Theme
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Pirates
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Mermaids
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Playboy
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Barbie/Ken Theme
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Decade themes – 80s, 90s etc.
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Social memes
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Victoria Secret angels
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Color Scheme Themed: black/white, a favorite color, rainbow, or the wedding colors
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If you want to decorate the boat, many boat rentals will allow you to do so before the guests arrive.
Finally, Tips During the Boat Party
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Communicate with Guests and Look After Them 📢
Keep guests informed about the day’s plans, including meeting times, activities, and any special instructions. Provide clear directions to the marina and be available for any queries. Stay informed about weather forecasts and be prepared for any changes in conditions.
There’s no denying that the bride should deserve all the attention on this day, but that doesn’t mean the guests should be left unattended. Make sure that everyone feels involved, and all their needs are being catered to. The crew will also make sure everyone is catered.❤️
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Safety First 🛟
Boats are always equipped with necessary safety gear such as life jackets and first aid kits, as well as insurance. Most importantly, listen to captain’s rules and safety procedures if needed.
If you drive the boat with your own license, make sure the boat is equipped with the necessary lifejackets.
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Relax and Capture memories 📸
The crew or your talented friend:) should document the special moments through photos and videos. These memories will serve as cherished reminders of the laughter and special moments shared aboard.
Don’t forget to share some with us.🙂 We want to see your best poses!
- Respect the environment 🌊 🐚
Extra tips
- Essential questions to ask the captain/boat company:
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Are food and drink catering options available? If yes, what exactly is included?
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Are watersports equipment included?
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Is a cooler or ice supplied?
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Are there any prohibited items we cannot bring aboard?
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How can I play a music playlist on board? Bluetooth, USB?
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Is there a covered or interior area?
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Is there a bathroom onboard?
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What is the company cancellation policy for bad weather?
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Do you or one of your guests suffer with seasickness?
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Keep your eyes on the horizon
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Stay hydrated
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Stay outside and avoid staring at screens
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Deep breathing and relax
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Eat light and avoid greasy foods. Don’t get aboard with an empty stomach.
- Take motion sickness medication: Over the counter medications that contain dimenhydrinate such as Dramamine (Biodramina in Spain) can help prevent or alleviate symptoms of seasickness. Prefferably the ones containing caffeine, because without it these meds can cause sleepiness. Disclaimer: Follow the instructions on the packaging and consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication!
- Sea Bands: Sea bands are an alternative to medication. These are wristbands that apply pressure to specific acupressure points on your wrist, which may help relieve motion sickness symptoms for some people.
So, how many have you marked from this checklist? ✅
Planning a hens/stag party doesn’t occur everyday, so naturally, making it absolutely perfect is at the top of your list of priorities!
And guess what? There are loads of options to tailor the party just the way you want. Regardless of the style or personalization you add to your party, we sincerely hope it contributes to an unforgettable experience, creating valuable memories for years to come.
So, gather your crew, set sail for adventure, and prepare for an epic day of fun in the sun on the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean.
Contact us at marbella@royalcatamaran.com to get a quote.