Boat Party Outfit Basics

Before diving into specific outfits, here are the golden rules for what to wear in a boat party:

Prioritize Comfort and Function

You’ll be sitting, standing, possibly swimming, and definitely moving around on an unsteady surface. Restrictive clothing that looks great in photos but makes you miserable for six hours isn’t worth it.

Plan for Water Exposure

Even if you don’t plan to swim, you might get splashed. Choose fabrics that dry quickly and won’t become see-through when wet (unless that’s intentional).

Layer Smart

Temperatures on the water can shift—blazing sun to cool breeze in minutes. Bring a light layer you can throw on when needed.

What Women Should Wear to a Boat Party

The Swimsuit Foundation

Start with a swimsuit you feel confident in—it’s the base layer for most boat party outfits. A well-fitting bikini or one-piece gives you flexibility to swim whenever you want without a wardrobe change.

Cover-Up Options

Consider a flowy maxi dress (effortlessly stylish, photographs beautifully), linen shirt dress (classic and functional), high-waisted shorts with crop top (casual and comfortable), sarong or wrap (versatile styling options), or a romper (one-piece convenience).

Fabric Recommendations

Best: Linen, cotton, chambray, quick-dry synthetics. Avoid: Heavy denim, silk, anything that wrinkles badly or stains with water.

What Men Should Wear to a Boat Party

The Essentials

Swim trunks are the foundation—choose a comfortable pair that works for swimming and hanging out. Add a linen button-down (lightweight, breathable, can be worn open or buttoned), performance polo (slightly dressier while still practical), or tank top/t-shirt for casual lake days.

Style Tips

Board shorts with a linen shirt (sleeves rolled) is the go-to boat party look that works in almost every situation. It’s comfortable, looks put-together, and transitions easily from swimming to socializing. For dressier boat parties, opt for tailored swim shorts instead of baggy board shorts.

Footwear Do’s and Don’ts

Best Boat Party Shoes

Boat shoes/deck shoes are the classic choice with non-marking soles. Sandals with straps are secure enough to walk around and easy to kick off. Water shoes work for rocky lake bottoms. Clean white sneakers suit dressier boat parties where you won’t swim. Often barefoot is the best choice once you’re on board.

Footwear to Avoid

Skip high heels (dangerous on uneven, wet surfaces), black-soled shoes (can leave marks on the deck), loose flip flops (easy to lose overboard), and expensive leather shoes (water damage waiting to happen).

Essential Boat Party Accessories

Sun Protection

A hat provides maximum protection (wide-brim or baseball cap). Sunglasses with polarized lenses cut water glare—use a retainer strap so they don’t sink. Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 30+ minimum, reapply every 2 hours.

Practical Additions

Bring a waterproof phone pouch to protect your phone while taking photos, small waterproof bag for keys and wallet, hair ties (wind and water will test any hairstyle), and a light jacket or hoodie for the ride back when the sun goes down.

Jewelry Advice

Leave expensive or sentimental jewelry at home. If you want to accessorize, choose inexpensive pieces you won’t cry over if they end up in the water.

What NOT to Wear to a Boat Party

Avoid all white unless intentional (gets dirty fast, potentially see-through when wet), heavy fabrics like denim jeans or wool (uncomfortable and slow to dry), anything too precious (saltwater, sunscreen, and beverages will find it), complicated outfits with lots of ties and buttons, brand new swimsuits that haven’t been tested, and strapless tops without backup for active boat days.

Outfits by Boat Party Type

Casual Lake Day

The most relaxed dress code. Swimsuit, shorts, t-shirt or tank, flip flops or barefoot. Comfort is king.

Bachelor/Bachelorette Party

Step it up slightly. Coordinated colors or matching shirts are popular. Think Instagram-ready but still functional.

Sunset Cruise

More polished than a day party. Maxi dresses, linen pants, button-downs. You might not swim, so prioritize style.

Corporate Event

Business casual meets boat—think resort wear. Polo shirts, chinos or tailored shorts, sundresses. Skip the swimsuit unless explicitly told swimming is part of the event.

Ready to Plan Your Boat Party?

Now that you know what to wear for a boat party, it’s time to book the boat. Whether you’re planning a casual lake day or an all-out celebration, Tide Up has the perfect vessel for your crew.

Call Tide Up Boat Rentals at 737-248-0177 or visit tideupboatrentals.com to explore our Lake Travis and Lake Austin boat rental options.