Exclusive Yacht Weddings

If you are thinking of having your wedding aboard a luxury boat, you have probably already started visualising the kind of party you want to have with the person you plan to spend the rest of your life with. The alternatives are practically limitless, and they can range anywhere from sophisticated wedding attire worn on boats to elaborately crafted decorations.

Although some couples want to get married with the ocean as their witness, other couples also choose to get married on dry land and then celebrate on the water. When it comes to a wedding on a yacht, careful planning is very necessary. 

When arranging your boat wedding, there are many factors to consider, such as the budget, the wedding style, the number of guests, and the yacht's capacity.  

Regarding organising such a significant day, the following are some crucial considerations. 

Everything You Need to Know About Yacht Weddings

Why get married on a yacht, anyway?

There are a lot of couples that want to get married near the sea, but why not get married actually in the water? You will not only be able to enjoy your big day in the most private way possible, but it will also be more convenient because you can hold the ceremony and reception in the same location. It enables you and the people you care about to completely submerge yourselves in the experience while surrounded by the most breathtaking scenery. In addition, boat wedding packages typically include staff members who will care for everything else. This way, you won't have to worry about anything on the wedding day.  

Is it legal to get married on a yacht?

It is possible to get married on a boat in the United States if the couple does not sail into foreign waters. It is important to remember that only some captains can preside over wedding ceremonies; moreover, they should be fine if they have the appropriate certification. Be careful to enquire about this before booking a boat wedding package, or better yet, bring your officiant to ensure everything goes smoothly. 

Getting married in a foreign country? Although it is feasible to obtain a marriage licence from the location where the wedding will take place, doing so can be a hassle due to the extensive amount of paperwork that is typically required. Because of this, most couples decide to get married in their home countries and then celebrate on a boat in a location of their choosing after the wedding. Be sure to check into the legalities of holding the wedding ceremony and the reception at your trip location, though, if you are seriously considering doing it. Knowing that your union will be acknowledged if you do it this way, you can have peace of mind.  

Tips on planning a yacht wedding

Do you want to give your guests an experience they will remember? Here are a few pointers to keep in mind when organising the ideal wedding on a yacht:  

1. Decide how you want your day to go

You don't have to complete everything while you're at sea. You can have your "I dos" on land and then spend the rest of the day on the boat, or vice versa. Either way, the day is yours to spend whatever you like. It is especially important to remember if you want only a few loved ones to witness your vows but you want to open an after-party to as many guests as possible. 

2. Consider your headcount

Bats have a capacity for just a limited number of passengers, so you may need to reduce the number of individuals on your guest list. Having stated that, before selecting a boat, it is recommended that you obtain an accurate headcount first. If you plan to invite a sizable number of people, your best bet is to charter a large vessel like the Sea Star or the Ocean Blue so that you won't have to exclude anyone from the festivities. 

Don't worry if you have no experience with sailing or boats. Boat wedding providers can assist you in selecting the perfect vessel for your special day from among a large range of yachts and superyachts, accommodating anywhere from 12 to 200 guests. 

3. Beat motion sickness

If you, your fiancé, or any of your guests feel seasick on your wedding day, it will be one of the worst things that could ever happen to you. One or two persons may experience feelings of nausea; therefore, it is important to be ready and pack medication to treat the condition. You should also consider requesting that your guests indicate in their RSVP whether or not they are prone to getting seasick. It will allow them to take any necessary medication before boarding the vessel.  

4. Get the timing right

It is equally as important to select a wedding band as it is to decide when the ceremony will occur. It is because the passage of time will dictate the activities available to you while on board. Make sure to plan the calendar for your wedding, as this will guide you in determining the most appropriate moment to cast off. For those who intend to have many photographs taken at their wedding, having the ceremony during the daytime offers the best lighting conditions. It is advisable to celebrate in the evening if you want it to have a more romantic atmosphere. It will allow you to host a dinner with candlelight and be surrounded by stars.  

5. Stick to the nautical theme

If you are going to wait to commit to a nautical theme, when else will you have the opportunity to do so? Seize the opportunity to make everything for your wedding themed around boats, from the centrepieces to the food on the menu. You could decorate your tables with glass bowls filled with sand and shells from the beach. Or, you might draw ideas from the event's location, such as incorporating blue and white into the decor for a wedding that will take place on a yacht in the Mediterranean. Regarding the menu, consider providing exclusively seafood-based items like smoked salmon, crab cakes, and shrimp skewers.  

6. Put safety first

What happens if folks become too cold outside in the fresh air? What should you do if someone unable to swim accidentally gets into the water? What are you going to do if your sister-in-law is hurt? When organising a wedding aboard a yacht, the safety of your guests should always come first. What you can do is as follows:

• Inform the passengers about the activities they can and cannot participate in while on board.
• Encourage your guests to dress appropriately and wear shoes that will not slip.
• If it is cold, pack blankets and give them warm drinks.
• Demonstrate to the guests how to properly put on safety gear.

The good news is that you won't be alone yourself while you're getting married on the boat. There will always be crew members there to crew the ship, ensure that everyone's needs are met in terms of comfort and safety, and return them to port if necessary. You need not worry about them being unable to handle any problems that may crop up. They will be so stealthy, to the point where you won't even realise they're present.

7 TIPS FOR PLANNING A MEMORABLE YACHT WEDDING

1.  Location, Location, Location!

Three phrases will never go out of style when planning a wedding: location, location, and location. 

Suppose the scene of your ideal event includes stunning vistas of the ocean, magnificent sunsets, and a refreshing wind off the water. In that case, Marina del Rey is a strong contender for the role of your ideal location. This dream setting is made even more alluring by its accessible proximity, as it is only four miles away from LAX. It ensures that your out-of-town visitors who wish to participate in your joyful celebration will have a journey without hassles. 

2. Set The Stage For Your Wedding Yacht Charter

Tip number 2 in organising a memorable wedding aboard a boat is about establishing the event's mood and recognising the details' significance.

The grand or the personal? Or should we go with a theme? This decision will serve as the foundation for your entire celebration, directing your choices for accents, decor, and creative touches that will make your special day stand out and be remembered for a long time. 

After you've decided where you want to go, the real fun starts: it's time to start delving into the nuances of the situation.

It is your opportunity to add some unique touches to your wedding, which will make your guests happy and help build memories that will last a lifetime. 

As the old adage goes, the devil is in the details, and that holds true whether you're giving your signature drink the name of an inside joke, creating a personalised dessert table, or incorporating family heirlooms and photos into your celebration. 

You will create an event that reflects your one-of-a-kind love story and leave an impact that will last a lifetime if you put the time and effort into personalising your wedding. 

3. A Yacht Wedding Day Or Night?

Take advantage of the one-of-a-kind opportunity afforded to you by holding your wedding aboard a yacht.

The fact that you are even aboard a boat adds to the already remarkable nature of the experience, further enhanced by the stunning vistas and great service. As you start down this path, one of the choices you'll have to make is whether or not to host your party during the day or in the evening. Both times of day have their unique allure and atmosphere to enjoy.

Imagine yourself attending a formal evening event dressed to the nines in a cocktail dress and a tailored suit, exuding elegance and class. As you bask in the glory of the glimmering stars and the harbour's hypnotic lights, the night sky transforms into your enchanted canopy, providing unparalleled beauty.

On the other hand, if you anticipate a more laid-back and lively setting and a bright and airy sense of feeling, a wedding during the daylight is the perfect alternative for you. Imagine you and your guests exchanging your vows against the breathtaking backdrop of the coastline stretching all the way to Malibu in Southern California. Your guests are enjoying the warm weather.

Rest assured that we have your back regardless of whether you want to be enchanted by the mystical allure of the setting sun, the sparkling stars, or the sun-filled skies.

Our knowledgeable staff is here to provide a hand in the creation of the ideal atmosphere for your boat wedding, whether it be through the use of unique lighting improvements such as gobos and sparklers or any other lovely elements that contribute to the occasion's status as a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. 

4. Menu Delights

Regarding the logistics of organising a spectacular wedding aboard a yacht, the fourth piece of advice is on the all-important work of selecting the ideal food. It should come as no surprise that the dining experience plays a large part in determining the level of satisfaction that your visitors derive from their time spent in your company. On the other hand, here at FantaSea Yachts, life should be as uncomplicated and worry-free as possible.

When our highly skilled in-house culinary staff is in charge, there is no need to contract outside caterers. Our chef has more than twenty years of experience working for FantaSea Yachts. He received his training at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel. Chef Eddie and the rest of our hardworking crew are committed to providing you with an unforgettable dining experience from when your cocktail hour begins until the last mouthful of dessert. 

5. Select Your Vendors

Put yourself in the company of accomplished people. It will make things a lot simpler to deal with. Our staff comprises highly skilled individuals who are professionals in the field of event planning. We have a comprehensive and reliable vendor list ready to serve you.

If you find yourself in a position where you require recommendations for a florist, band, or DJ, our team is prepared to assist you. We have cultivated relationships with entertainers and florists with a track record of drawing large crowds. We can provide your event's ideal floral arrangements and entertainment, taking it to new heights. You may rely on us to introduce you to the most qualified people in the field.

Your concern is fine if you have already envisioned your ideal sports squad. We would be more than pleased to work with the vendors of your choice and arrange the logistics on your behalf. We want to make preparing your wedding on a boat as simple and stress-free as possible so that you can concentrate on having a good time while getting ready for one of the most memorable days of your life. 

6. Set Your Budget And Guest List

Both the guest list and the budget are extremely important factors that will contribute to the overall atmosphere and atmosphere of your wedding. 

Guest list

While compiling the list of guests for your event, consider yourself if you want a large party or an intimate gathering.

If you know in advance how many people will be attending your event, it will be easier for you to picture the kind of mood you want to create and help you avoid any problems with space and costs. If you have an accurate headcount, you can select the ideal yacht rental that will not only allow you to keep within your financial constraints but also provide a comfortable environment for all of your guests. 

Wedding Budget

Getting a head start on establishing your priorities by creating a budget will be beneficial. Is the provision of entertainment one of your primary concerns? Or, you can infuse your space with a mystical air by employing lavish furnishings and eye-catching floral compositions. 

You will be able to comfortably traverse the process of wedding planning and make decisions that are educated and in line with your vision if you have earmarked your budget for each area. Please be aware that we provide personalised wedding packages aboard yachts. 

7. Choose Your Yacht

Your chosen venue will greatly influence the atmosphere of your luxury yacht wedding. You have the luxury (and the flexibility) to select a yacht from FantaSea Yachts tailored to your requirements and goals. We are certain that our luxury ships make for a once-in-a-lifetime setting for wedding receptions because of their vast rooftop decks and exquisite lighting. 

Do you need to know which yacht will serve your needs the best? Continue reading for a rundown of the yachts that are our specialty. 

8 PROs and CONs of Getting Married on a Boat

• PRO: One Venue for Your Entire Event.

Because you can hold your entire wedding on board, you will not need to worry about the logistics or additional costs of moving guests from the ceremony to the reception location. Begin your married life with an outdoor ceremony on the top deck, a cocktail hour on the second deck, and a formal supper in an enclosed dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows. It will mark the beginning of your journey together as husband and wife. Isn't it the stuff of dreams? 

• PRO: All-Inclusive Packages.

Many boats provide all-inclusive wedding packages that include an on-site wedding coordinator and the cuisine, bar, cake, linens, china, and cutlery. There are even those that include a resident DJ in addition to an inbuilt lighting and sound system. And most of the time, the ship's captain is also a properly licenced officiant! In addition, you can relax knowing that the marine crew, Maitre d', bartenders, and service workers are there to ensure that your day goes off without a hitch because they have been professionally trained and are dressed in uniforms. 

• PRO: Affordability.

One of the most frugal ways to exchange vows is to have the ceremony on the lake. Whether you reserve an individual room or charter the entire vessel, many different types of boats provide several package options to accommodate your financial constraints. As a result of the fact that many of them are all-inclusive, you will automatically receive greater value for your money. 

• PRO: Vows with a View.

Getting married on the sea is a visual treat thanks to the magnificent harbour, coastal, and skyline vistas, not to mention the chance of a stunning sunset. Your guests will always remember that breathtaking vista as the setting for the ceremony, and you'll have some amazing images to remember the day by. In addition, if you plan things just right, you can say your vows during the legendary golden hour or serve beverages to your captivated guests as the sun sinks beyond the horizon. 

• CON: Potential "hidden" fees.

Even though weddings aboard boats tend to be quite inexpensive, there are a few potential costs exclusive to watercraft that you should be aware of. Enquire with the boat charter operator about any potential additional costs, such as those associated with docking, fuel, service fees, taxes, and gratuities, as well as any potential port bills or expenses related to obtaining permits. 

• CON: Limited space.

You will likely have to reduce the number of guests at your event unless you pay for a luxurious super yacht. Limits are placed on the number of persons that can be accommodated on board a boat. You will want to be sure that the boat charter provides you with a spacious vessel to accommodate the number of guests you expect securely. 

• CON: Strict regulations.

In addition to having a maximum passenger capacity, many boats have other limitations, such as restrictions on the interior design (such as having no open fires) and departure times! Fashionably late guests risk missing the boat and being left behind as your wedding sails away as they watch from the pier. Include some wiggle room in the start time you list on your wedding invitations to increase the likelihood that all your guests will be present for the event's scheduled departure. 

• CON: You're stuck on board.

Before committing to your wedding on a boat, consider who you want to invite. For instance, on-call medical professionals who might be required to depart at a moment's notice won't precisely be able to do so! If your boat is docked, you will only be out on the sea for many hours. The good news is that many boat charter companies collaborate with water taxi companies to transport passengers back to the pier when necessary. In the event of an emergency, there are even water ambulances available. 

Essential preparations for organising a yacht wedding

Preparing a yacht wedding - what are the challenges?

When the venue is a floating yacht docked at a marina, transporting items to and from the location presents a few more challenges than is typical.

Before putting any plans in stone, it is quite necessary to be certain that everybody who requires access to the yacht will be able to receive it. It includes companies that provide food and drink, event planners, and anyone responsible for loading and unloading equipment or fixtures.

When preparing the entertainment and guest lists for your event, it is important to keep the weight and capacity constraints in mind. If necessary, enlist the assistance of an event planner who has prior experience organising events on yachts. 

Space and guest numbers.

Be careful to avoid being tricked; even the largest boats may surprise you with how few guests can fit comfortably on board. The largest deck of a yacht is normally where a wedding of this calibre would be hosted, but don't let that fool you.

When you consider that your 'wedding area' most likely won't be square, in addition to the seats, goods, and décor, you frequently find that you have significantly less room than you had originally anticipated. Yacht weddings are often more intimate affairs. Therefore, the guest lists typically aren't as extensive as those for other types of weddings.

That said, you can hold the wedding out on the deck if you want to. There are a lot of boats that have enormous, luxurious interior rooms that may compete with a lot of different wedding locations. If you really must have more guests at your wedding, this might be a good choice for you, even though it might entail giving up open ocean views. 

Food service at a yacht wedding – sit-down service or buffet?

Buffets are the go-to choice for feeding more people since enormous batches of various main courses, sides, sauces, and other items can be served to large groups continually. Guests serve themselves exactly what they want to eat, making buffets ideal for feeding large groups. At weddings held on yachts, guests will likely prefer to spend less time seated at the table and more time out on the deck, admiring the views; consequently, buffets are an excellent choice for wedding receptions on these vessels.

Table service is still popular, but providing it on a yacht with restricted resources and space can take time and effort. It is especially true when the number of guests exceeds what the galley was designed to accommodate regarding food preparation space. Knowing how many people will be eating, what they want, and what is realistically achievable given the number of guests, the size of the yacht and crew, and other factors is essential for planning table service for an ultra-elegant yacht wedding. It is best to plan this as far in advance as possible. 

Yacht wedding legalities – don’t get caught out.

Yacht weddings are typically hosted in a location similar to the couple's country of residency. It can present several legal challenges and significantly impact your wedding planning and timeline.

It is equally as vital to find out the legal requirements for marriage in the nation where you currently reside as it is to find out the legal requirements for marriage in the country where you will be getting married. For instance, to have a marriage recognised by the law in Greece, the couple must have been physically present in the country for at least one week before the wedding ceremony. In France, the couple must have a civil ceremony at the town hall before any religious or secular ceremony.

Insurance is still important, even if the boat is in the owner's home nation. It is common knowledge that insurance policies can be "easily voided" if the policyholder has not carefully read the fine print. Having an excessive number of guests on board will void yacht insurance (if the boat is privately held), and wedding insurers will need to consider the location, depending on what you have covered. 

Remember the flowers.

The wedding is not complete without breathtaking floral arrangements, and a wedding aboard a superyacht is no exception to this rule. It was told to us by Steffen Funfsinn of Jardin D'Alice Flowerdesign that floristry can do more than only improve the yacht or location itself; it can also help set the stage for the upcoming event. You may learn more about the floristry of superyacht weddings here. 

The Bottom Line

With a yacht wedding, you have the flexibility to make your dream wedding a reality. We cannot wait to assist you in finishing the preparations for your special day.

A wedding aboard a boat is the ideal way to kick off the new chapter in your life as a married couple, as it provides breathtaking scenery, a lively environment, and wonderful recollections. Your guests will have the time of their lives during your wedding and will continue to talk about it long after it has passed.