The Frozen Wine slushy quenches your thirst and just watch... it doesn't matter if it's 90 degrees outside OR 20 below it still looks so dang good!
Ingredients Needed:
* Frozen Raspberries
* 12 ounces frozen lemonade concentrate
* 2 ounces Limoncello
* 2 cups Pink Moscato
* 1 cup ice
* Frozen raspberries and lemon wedge for garnish
Directions:
Use a blender. Place all ingredients and use pulse setting until you receive a slushy mix
Pour into frozen mugs and garnish as desired
DRINK and "Just Add Boat"
It’s Nautical Bachelorette Party time!
"Time for Bachelorette Uniforms"
I’ve worked with pontoon rentals over 30 years… yikes! But I’ve seen many MANY nautical bachelorette party ideas.
You can have fun. But play it safe and keep it simple. Especially if you’re heading out on the waters.
There are tons of ways to add a bit of nautical to your party from invitations, to hats, to decorations and even your shirts…
What you’ll find below are links to our site here at Buffy Waters – AND our Girl Boater site which is a our Amazon affiliate site.
So yep. We are repping stuff we’ll make money from. However, we did the research here so you don’t have to … it’s fun stuff to create the Nautical Bachelorette party of your dreams.
Congratulations on the engagement and see you on the water!
The perfect nautical bachelorette party has a theme… here are three popular themes!
When planning your nautical bachelorette party there’s theme and location – for example if you’re heading out on a pontoon cruise make sure to consider the size of the boat and plan your packing! The biggest “problem” I’ve seen in 30 years of pontoon rentals is everyone brings a bag… the boat is only 500 square feet! Haha… plan ahead.
You can also have a fun nautical bachelorette party without being on a boat… you can be pool side or beach side. Maybe it’s a cruise! OH that would be awesome, and I guess it’s on a boat… but not really, right?!? Anyway, keep it simple… especially if you are planning the event. You want to have fun, too!
There are great appetizers and drinks with a nautical theme… but one piece of advice, follow food safety guidelines. The boat is all sun. This goes for food and dehydration. Make sure to take it easy and again, plan ahead. (water and sunscreen)
22 Nautical Bachelorette Party Ideas
So many options from sailor caps, floppy beach hats to custom captain hats – buy and add your own bling to personalize!
The perfect bachelorette party starts with the perfect invite.
Customize with the date of the big event!
This might be the perfect “Bachelorette Uniform”
Cute idea for your “Bachelorette Uniform”
Best boat bag ever – it’s perfect for putting all of your day of gifts inside!
This is a great idea for your boat tote – just make sure to get a foot pump.
Everything needs wheels when you’re heading for the boat!
OR
Get a stereo in a cooler combine for pool or beach bachelorette parties.
Complete your look with matching shades!
The boat ride starts out with great hair… then you need a hair tie.
NAUTICAL BACHELORETTE PARTY VEIL
Yep get a cute one you can attach to a sailor hat.
You will need these… trust me, why have boring napkins?!
A must for every cruise… easy to wear over a T shirt or a swim suit.
NAUTICAL BACHELORETTE CAN COOLERS
They fold, they’re useful, and they make a cute party favor.
Great souvenir of your boating event.
NAUTICAL CAKE TOPPERS AND CUPCAKES
Your cake is the center piece of the day… make it memorable.
NAUTICAL BACHELORETTE WINE IDEAS
Yep it’s time to wine.
NAUTICAL BACHELORETTE PARTY TATTOOS
This is the day to do things you normally wouldn’t… even if it’s only temporary.
NAUTICAL BACHELORETTE PARTY SIGN
Show everyone the party is here!
Balloons are fun on a boat! They look pretty, they’re easy to pack, and they float!
Whether it’s on the boat, at the shower, or in a photo booth – nautical photo props are a must!
Ready for Even More Nautical Bachelorette Party Ideas?
For more nautical bachelorette party ideas, be sure to visit Girl Boater, there’s always tons of new stuff poppin’ up.
]]>If you're looking for an excuse to drink on the boat, here's a fun way to make your Disney Dreams come to life!
Here we are on a rented pontoon in front of the Dolphin Hotel.... how cool is that!
There are many places to fill your "boating fix" at Walt Disney World... Check with your hotel and see where your closest pontoon rental place is, even if you get on the water for 30 minutes, it calms your soul.
Want a last minute way to celebrate the birthday of Mickey Mouse on your boat? Or what about if it's just in your living room... HA!
Just tape some white circles on some red plastic cups - add your favorite beverage and BOOM! There you have it. Instant celebration.
Image from Pinterest
AND Finally -- if you're really missing Disney World, how about making your favorite drink at home! Here's a link to a great website that has all of the special Christmas Cocktails... YUMMMMMM! Christmas is coming soon... dang it, next week is already Thanksgiving... wow!!
]]>So how do you pronounce Caribbean? Yeah… it doesn’t matter, this drink will have you enjoying both way to say it!
BARGAIN!… You’ve reached our FINAL milestone in the Pontoon Girl Practical Tip Series… congratulations on joining us for the entire series! Tomorrow we have our final One Time Only offer you’ll love. It’s the coolest in beverage containers with a wonderful feel of yester-year. It’s great for making memories and taking photos to last all year long… so make sure come back to tomorrow for a special 24 hour sale!
(photo source: Pinterest)
Tip #18
Finally, we’ve reached our last tip and I selected this one because it’s important.
Take a boat safety course.
I know, I know… you know how to operate a boat. But it’s still a good idea to see if there are new things that perhaps you are unfamiliar with.
There are many new environmental changes that have affected the industry that are good for a refresher.
Also… often it will lower the rate for your insurance, so why not!
Boat safety courses come in two varieties… book/classroom and behind the wheel.
If you like the insurance saving idea, make sure to give your agent a call and see what they recommend.
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Make sure to take our FREE CleanBoaterPledge.com
]]>Isn’t this the cutest way to feature your favorite boating memories. Just get a simple frame… hot glue gun for some rope… and hang on a cleat! It’s so adorable.
(photo source: Pinterest)
]]>Tip #17
Have you ever wondered where the heck you are?
You’re boating and you went up a new pass and then tried to find your way back only to realize you took the wrong one… and you’re lost.
It’s not a fun feeling but fortunately we have GPS on our cellphone. We often forget this though…
If you find yourself lost… or if someone flags you down on the water because they need directions, ask them to look at their map on their phone.
The phone might get confused because it’s looking for a road, however, the beacon will show your movement and as long as you are watching the water for obstructions, you should make it to something familiar… soon.
But, just in case, it’s a good idea to tell someone what your plan is… I’ve grown up on a lake that is a “day lake” and it’s pretty difficult to get lost or at least not find your way back so we traditionally do not use float plans, however… that being said, they are a good idea.
It's always better to have someone know when you will “return” so if you are late… well… you get my point.
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Make sure to take our FREE CleanBoaterPledge.com
]]> If you are looking for a simple way to wow your guests, try this. Cut the veggies and take a little time to arrange them like a giant anchor. I know, it’s easy and super impactful. Your guests will love it!
(photo source: Pinterest)
Tip #16
Does your boat smell?
HA! You’re probably going to blame it on the water… but that’s not the stink I’m talking about. I’m talking about the two smells you must be aware of, that’s the smell you can smell and the smell you can’t.
Fuel is the one you can smell… and if you do you better take a look and see if you have a spill. Here’s why… From our fire safety training at the marina you have three things to create an explosion, that’s oxygen, fumes, and a spark. YIKES that means on your boat at any given time you’ve got two of the three.
So when you smell something, take a moment and see if it’s normal or if you developed a problem. Hoses can become detached… so be careful.
Now the smell you can’t smell and that’s carbon monoxide. YES, this is a thing… typically back by the motor/engine. It can happen at slow speeds like when cruising a channel… or it can happen at idle when you’re at a dock… OR it can happen when you’re tied up in a flotilla and the person next to you has a leak… if you have a boat with a cabin – be careful, there are a number of sources on a boat for CO2
The best way to be aware of the carbon monoxide leak is to have a monitor. New ones became available for sale on the market in the spring of 2019. The difference in a boat ready detector and one you buy at the hardware store is the range in which it’s effective. They typically work from extreme cold to extreme heat. The one in your house does not have a wide range of effectiveness.
SO get yourself a detector and if you or your guests get ill or extremely tired, be aware that this smell that doesn’t smell could be present.
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Make sure to take our FREE CleanBoaterPledge.com
]]>Speaking of chilly… how about a wine slushy. This is a great way to enjoy a hot summer day on the boat, check out how easy this recipe is, too!
BARGAIN!… You’ve reached our 5th milestone in the Pontoon Girl Practical Tip Series… Tomorrow we have a One Time Only offer you’ll love. It’s the coolest in super cute boating wear you’ll find. It’s something you can wear to the boat, to the gym, or even out to your favorite beach restaurant. This is a fun new product… come back to tomorrow for a special 24 hour sale!
(photo source: Pinterest)
Tip #15
When you think of a boat do you think of shorts and bikinis?
Probably.
But what about during a storm? How about if it’s cloudy? What about if it’s really sunny?
What about if all of these things happen in the same 2 hour time on the boat?
YES! This can and will happen.
Dressing in layers is important on a boat. There are times you’ll be hot so you shed a few layers, but then there are the time you get out of the water and are freezing cold… or even the time when you are running wide open across the water and it’s chilly. Night time cruises also get cool.
People think it’s ironic to have throw blankets on board, but it’s a smart idea… so are extra sweatshirts for guests. Trust me, no one cares if it has holes, it’s old, smelly, or even too small… if it’s warm it’s perfect.
So take a moment and add a few warm things on your boat AND encourage your guests to bring an extra layer or even dress in layers… they will appreciate the tip.
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Make sure to take our FREE CleanBoaterPledge.com
]]> Speaking of gear, have you ever lost one shoe on your boat. You have no idea what beach towel it got wrapped up in, which bag it went into, when it fell overboard, or what cubby it was placed into by mistake. But there it is gone. How about this idea… repurpose a cargo net as a shoe holder. It’s a perfect area and a perfect way to keep all shoes on board in pairs!
(photo source: Pinterest)
Tip #14
Do you have a fat boat? Well, here’s the deal, if you’re hosting a party you certainly can be!
On your boat you have a placard for the number of people or weight allowed on board. This is a which ever comes first rule.
Our marina rents pontoon and fishing boats and we run into this often when it comes to children. For example, on a fishing boat it states 4 people or 560lbs. Well… if you have an adult that weights 150 and four kids that each weigh 50lbs… the weight is only 350lbs. But that’s over the limit because the number of people is a maximum of 4!
Each body counts.
Same holds true for three people weighing 200lbs… they also can’t go because their weight is 600lbs… again over the limit.
What’s worse is when you have an infant in the mix. YES, an infant is considered equal as a 300lb person.
It seems illogical but it’s meant for safety.
The one quirk that people forget is that the placard means weight. That’s gear, coolers, electric wheelchairs, even the motor, trolling motor… there are lots of things that contribute to weight.
Be aware and make sure your boat isn’t too fat!
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Make sure to take our FREE CleanBoaterPledge.com
]]> Super easy alert. While this is a made from scratch recipe, you can also grab the premade cookie dough from the refrigerated section of your grocery store, add almonds and have a wonderful treat for your next cruise.
(photo source: Pinterest)
Tip #13
One of the best services around is the complementary Vessel Safety Check from the US Power Squadron.
Our marina hosts an event where members of our local chapter complete an assessment of a boat’s seaworthiness. In addition to external safety items such as appropriate lifejackets they check basic equipment, too such as lights and horns.
Upon a successful completion your boat receives a sticker. It’s a great way to promote safe boating and to find some minor and even major safety issues with your boat before something bad happens.
If you don’t have a Power Squadron in your area, check with your local water enforcement to see if they know who completes Vessel Safety Checks in your area. It’s time well spent.
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Make sure to take our FREE CleanBoaterPledge.com
]]>Ocean Water
Don’t you just love the name of this drink? Ocean Water! It has a magical name and it’s all ready for your magical afternoon on the boat. Just beware, it’s really not going to hydrate you like water… probably the opposite. J
BARGAIN!… You’ve reached our 4th milestone in the Pontoon Girl Practical Tip Series… Tomorrow we have a One Time Only offer you’ll love. When you love the sun and love the environment there’s a got to have it product that’s level’s up your enjoyment of both…
(photo source: Pinterest)
There’s a whole lot of fun in the sun waiting on a boat – but the opposite side of this is true if you're not careful.
Today’s topic is both Hydration and sunblock!
The sun in moderation is good. Too much sun and you could end up dehydrated and burnt. Both are no fun and can actually be a medical hazard on the lake.
Even though you are surrounded by water, it seems ironic you can become dehydrated, but both the sun and drinking alcohol will contribute. Be careful and be mindful of your guests! (Hey… another thing if your group is the out of control partying type… make sure to them to use a garbage bag, plastic style OR vomit over the edge of the boat – no one wants that in the head…)
As for sunblock – you can really help the environment by using a reef friendly product. It seems crazy if you’re far from the ocean, but reef friendly also translates in to local eco systems and the fishies you find at home. The research that shows the toxins of one swimmer with traditional sunblock multiplied by all the swimmers every day all summer long really shows that this is a top way to help with environmental friendly practices!
Another benefit of a reef friendly sun block is that it blocks the sun’s radiation from penetrating the skin.
WHAAAT?
Yes, if you use a traditional sun block you wait for the lotion to seep into the skin and then the sun’s radiation enters the skin and is blocked at that point – where as a reef friendly product actually blocks the harmful rays from penetrating your skin! Crazy but true.
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]]>A couple times in our practical tip series I’ve written about your cell phone or other things to stay dry… why not just plan a permanent dry box? It’s a genius idea… just get a waterproof storage box from local
(photo source: Pinterest)
Tip #11
This is a great idea and one you hope you’ll never have to use.
Before you go out on your cruise you need to plan ahead. Imagine if you are the one that gets sick and needs medical attention.
What the heck? That’s not supposed to happen!
But what if it does… think about that. Does someone else know the basic operation of the boat? Does someone else know how to get help? Does someone else know where the first aid kit is?
This is a simple, 5 minute conversation to make someone your “first mate” in the event you’ll never need them.
As for your first aid kit. You should regularly inspect it to change out old lotions and potions, no time to find out the sting relief is dried up after the wasp attack. OR worse, you have a sliver and find out the tweezers is missing or rusted!
First aid kits are wonderful, if they’re stocked and ready.
Well, it sounds like I just gave you an excuse to visit your boat to check the first aid kit.
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When you’re hosting people on the boat it’s fun to surprise them… especially when it’s in easy, thoughtful ways. Look at this example of how to bundle your plasticware. Sure it’s “just” plasticware – but imagine a little wind when you stop to eat and your napkins flying everywhere. Won’t happen if you make a special gift bundle for your guests, complete with a lifesaver.
(photo source: Pinterest)
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Tip #10
Watch the sky or at least have alerts on your phone!
Why?
Because storms come up quick! And since it’s weather, sometimes they come from strange locations. We had one that came in from the north last summer. We never have storms from the north. We actually got on the phone and started calling our rental boat customers to let them know…
Each person that we called said, “what, storms never come from the north”. The only reason we knew about it at the marina was the weather alert from our phone app sounded. That’s one of the best inventions ever!
Most of the time your phone automatically resets from your home town to a visiting area, but always check the weather app to make sure you’ll receive alerts for your boating area.
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Make sure to take our FREE CleanBoaterPledge.com
]]> Nothing is better than a Pink drink in your hand while watching the sunset from the boat!
BARGAIN!… You’ve reached our 3rd milestone in the Pontoon Girl Practical Tip Series… Tomorrow we have a One Time Only offer you’ll love. It’s the coolest and most practical item you can purchase. It’s easy to use and adds fun to your boating. Make sure to come back to tomorrow for a special 24 hour sale!
(photo source: Pinterest)
]]>Tip #9
This is one of those topics I love to share with people. When you are sizing life jackets be aware that not every life jacket “rights” you!
I always thought this was the purpose of a life jacket, then I found out that only a Type I will right you in most situations. Righting means to turn a person over so their face is out of the water. Type II will right some users. And a Type III are not designed to right you.
Crazy?
YES! But make sure you have the appropriate type of life jacket, especially for infants and toddlers. There are videos on YouTube that show some life jackets hindering a child that swims. The jacket fights against their skill level and holds them face down. That’s a little scary, but now you’re aware and can purchase accordingly!
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Make sure to take our FREE CleanBoaterPledge.com
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With the reliability of motors way up, we often forget they can break. Now this is not intended to turn you into a super boat fixer.
However, having some basic tools on board will help you in the even you want to tighten, loosen, replace or stick something. It’s also good if someone else comes on board to help.
So stick to the essentials, pliers, screw driver and wrench, but also add a multi tool which can be very helpful. Then of course duct tape – I know, I’m big into duct tape.
A scissors is another good idea because they always come in handy. The flashlight on your phone is nice, but it’s also great to have a stand alone light (and batteries) – and finally… the biggie, have an extra drain plug with you.
Just like your purse contains essentials for your "survival" your boat needs a purse too! You'll thank yourself for creating it.
As long as we are in a safety mood – why not create a life preserver doughnut? This is about the easiest food you can create! Add a little red frosting and you’re good to go… just remember, power sugar donuts leave sprinkles on the floor, maybe a glazed doughnut is better? YUMMM
Tip #7
A fire extinguisher is an important feature on your boat and one that is overlooked as that “thing” you have to have.
Well, every year we need to complete “fire training” at the marina and here are some helpful tips to keep in mind.
If you are ever in a situation where you must use a fire extinguisher, remember PASS – that’s Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side.
That’s your very quick “how to use” a fire extinguisher.
The other couple of tips to keep in mind, check your fire extinguisher and make sure it’s still “charged’ meaning the dial is in the acceptable range. Remember, this is a legal requirement AND if you need it you want it to work!
Also, a fire extinguisher is meant to put out a small fire OR help you escape by clearing a path you can flee through… I didn’t know that one until about a year ago!
Finally, these tips are helpful for a boat, but about 2 days after we did fire training one of our crew was at a gas station and the dry grass on the hill was burning, he grabbed a fire extinguisher from near the pump and put out the flames.
So…. You’ll never know when this information will come in handy!
You’re on the boat.. you're out of chips. What do you do?
NOTHING
You’re in the middle of the Lake or River. That’s it… no more chips.
But now the kids are cranky or your adults drinking are acting like kids and they are cranky… just bring more food than you need.
I’ll put one disclaimer on that… bring food that comes in bags that does not spoil, per our Tip 4 on summer food safety. Extra crackers, things that settle tummy upset by waves or wine will be greatly appreciated by your guests.
But looking at someone that’s turning green and saying, “sorry we’re out of food” doesn’t help.
It’s an easy tip, just bring more food than you think you need!
This is a super fun tip – grab come PVC Pipe and socks… your wine bottles will love you. Using a plastic tote with PVC Tube silos that contain your wine bottle in a sock will help prevent breakage. If it does break, the glass is contained in the container. Great Idea!
(photo source: Pinterest)
OK, what do we mean by common sense, we are referring to operating a boat at a safe speed.
Earlier we discussed the docking SLOW. Which is key to not hitting anything. But operating at a speed that you can handle is also key to success.
In addition, do not overload your boat, or should we say be aware of how you load the boat. If everyone is on one side of the boat, including while you are anchored, you can tip. Again, it’s common sense but often you forget when you’re not in motion!
This rule also holds true for going outside the rails. Safety is important on a boat so best case is you break a railing holding on while pulling yourself up the side, but worst case… oh let’s not talk about that. These are the practical tips, not the gruesome tips.
And finally, be aware of your surroundings.
THUD.
Yep… that’s what you don’t want to hear. Water conditions change quickly. This includes water height and the sky. The last thing you want is to end up on a rock pile or sand bar. That makes your day so much less fun.
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