Make mealtime on board more exciting with these quick & easy lunch ideas for boating. In this boating resource guide, we’ve listed the best of the best recipes, so all you need to do is pick your favorites.
When planning for a boating trip, the last thing you want to worry about is what to eat. But if homemade fare is what you love, then make sure to check out these boat lunch ideas that you can make ahead of time.


The best part about boating has to be mealtime, don’t you agree?! If you’re looking for new lunch recipes for your boating adventure, you’ve come to the right place!
Here are 15 best lunch ideas for boating that will surely give lunchtime on board a makeover. Yum!
What Kind Of Food Should I Bring On A Boat?
Meal planning is a huge part of boating life. Whether you’re heading off for a day of boating fun or planning for a longer passage or for weeks at anchor, you should always plan what food to pack and take on your trips.
Foodwise, on a boating trip you must bring the ff:
- Fruits & vegetables
- Pasta salad
- Sandwiches
- Cheese & crackers
- Wraps
- Nuts
- Hummus
- Chips
- Energy bars
- Burgers
- Kebab
- Salad
Keeping food fresh should be a priority, especially during a long passage. You can ace this by sticking to some well-established guidelines about packing and storage of food items on a boat.
You can make use of specialized storage options. Whether it is a humble zip lock bag or food containers to keep your ingredients safe and dry.

While pre-made meals are perfect for boating, there are also simple meals you could prepare on a boat. Just remember that it should be simple and is not time-consuming if you want to enjoy your boating trip to the fullest.
Boat Lunch Ideas
If you’re looking for lunch ideas that are healthy, delicious, and easy to pack for your next boating trip, then this Keto cheese wrap recipe by Maya is perfect! You only need a few simple ingredients +5 min. prep time.
For an easy and tasty make-ahead sandwich for lunch, here is an easy Tuna salad recipe from Kristine’s Kitchen. What’s great about it is that you can make them in just 10 minutes!
This Muffuletta Sandwich Recipe by Jodi is another great lunch recipe that you can make for your next boating trip. Simple to assemble, delicious, and is better when squished! The kids can even help make them.
Can’t let go of pasta even when boating? Here is a simple Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe that is super delicious when served hot or cold.
Homemade uncrustables by Sarah are the perfect lunch idea for boating that can be made ahead of time. These kid-approved, crustless peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are ready to go anywhere you are!
Yummy and easy cold rotisserie chicken pasta salad with veggies and tossed with a simple homemade dressing. The perfect lunch or side dish for your next sailing adventure!
This Easy Italian Roasted Chicken Sandwich from Food Wine Shine is a delicious lunch idea that you can enjoy whether at home, in school, or when venturing outdoors. Ready in less than 10 minutes, you have a sandwich that is sure to please everyone on board.
This Corn salad recipe from The Moments At Home makes the perfect summer dish for various outdoor adventures. Just toss to combine, season to taste, serve or pack for your boating trips.
Soft and savory BBQ Stuffed Crescent Rolls! Made with just a few simple ingredients. These will take your boating meals to the next level!
This Ham Sliders with Pesto Recipe by Mary are the no-stress way to keep everyone happy when lunchtime comes onboard. Enjoy flavor galore from the juicy ham, savory cheese, and more!
For a quick and flavorful boating lunch, try this Chicken Caesar Wrap from Little Sunny Kitchen. These wraps are made of juicy tender chicken and crisp veggies, and are easy to transport too!
If this Philly Cheesesteak doesn't make your mouth water, I don’t know what else is. It is super easy to make and no need for fancy ingredients, just straight up tasty goodness.
Looking for vegan-friendly meals to bring for your water adventures? Check out this vegan burrito recipe by Alison that is filling, hearty, and delicious in every bite!
If light and healthy meals are what you’re looking for then this Marinated Vegetable Salad is the perfect recipe for you. You can serve it for lunch with your protein of choice!
Combine your love for pasta and pizza in one. This Make-Ahead Pizza Pasta Salad by Jaren is definitely a must-try!
Pontoon Boat Accessories
Pontoon boats are a great way to have some outdoor family fun on the lake or a party with friends out on the open sea. Check out these practical must-have pontoon boat accessories to add to your boat for smooth sailing.
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Recommended Boating Resources
- Recommended Pontoon Boat Accessories
- Best Boat Snacks– These are easy to make and yummy, too
- Pontoon Boat Hacks– Simplify your days on the water with these boating hacks
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
Aside from these flavorful recipes, why plan a BBQ party with the whole family on board? Here is a guide on How To BBQ On A Pontoon Boat. And talking about family, here are 7 reasons why Family boating trips are absolutely the best!