There’s nothing quite like Thanksgiving on a boat. With fewer boats on the water, vivid fall foliage and pumpkins lattes in the crisp fall air, the boat is a relaxing way to spend a Thanksgiving long weekend.
Preparing Thanksgiving dinner on a boat can be tricky in a small boat galley, but if you keep things simple, you can have a delicious feast. We tend to think bigger is better, or the more complicated the recipe is the better it is, but it’s not. I was both reminded and inspired this past summer when I stumbled upon Rachel Khoo’s Little Paris Kitchen online.
A tiny Paris kitchen, without full size appliances did not stop Rachel from wiping up delectable food. Cooking on a boat is in many ways comparable to a tiny Paris kitchen, so really, there is no excuse for not cooking a great Thanksgiving dinner on a boat. If you have a love for food, the size of your galley shouldn’t stop you from being creative with the space you have.
Over the years, I think I can count on one hand the number of Thanksgiving’s I haven’t spent on the boat. With summer behind you, and the office starting to get busy, it’s a great little reprieve weekend to spend on the water. Many boaters like to keep boating to the basics.
I do enjoy basic boating, but over the years I’ve shifted from basic to more comfortable cruising, and while my skills may not be comparable to Rachel Khoo’s, I enjoy making the most out of a small galley. I’m constantly learning of new fun things to try on the boat, and here’s what I’ve learned over the years to help you master Thanksgiving on a boat.
Dinner Ideas
Keep things simple and do what works with what you have, a boat oven, pressure cooker or a BBQ etc. Don’t stress yourself out with multiple dishes, I like to keep it simple and have mashed potatoes with another vegetable. Green beans, carrots or brussel sprouts are fast and easy on the stove.
Sauteed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pine Nuts – go here for the recipe
Mashed Potatoes – go here for the recipe
Spatchcock Turkey or Chicken- go here for the recipe
Chicken Tabaka – go here for the recipe
Pressure Cooker Turkey with Dijon Gravy – go here for the recipe
Cranberry Clafouti – go here for the recipe
Individual Cinnamon-Apple Tarts – go here for the recipe
Cozy Boat
Just because you’re on a boat doesn’t mean you need to skimp on comfort and decor. Thanksgiving on a boat should be comfortable. Regardless of your boat, there’s no reason why you can’t set the table and make it comfortable. Use what you have and is available, and be creative.
Make or buy gourd candle holders, low and stable for a boat, and works for either real or battery tea lights.
If you’re staying at a dock, bring a heated blanket for an extra level of comfort.
Bring a small pot of fall flowers to add some color and comfort.
Wherever you are on the water, enjoy Thanksgiving on your boat!