Decorating Your Boat: A Few Tips for Maximum Style

I loved this bathroom from our first houseboat.

One of my favorite things about having a boat is making it feel like a home away from home. Whether you're spending weekends at the marina or just enjoying an afternoon on the water, a few simple decorating touches can make your boat feel cozy, relaxing, and uniquely yours. Here are a few tips I've learned along the way.

Because boats are small—unless you have a humongous boat—it's best to keep your color scheme simple and not overly busy. I recommend sticking with three, maybe four, colors. The colors you choose should be calming and reflect the peace and serenity of being on the water.

I kept the neutral colors on the front of my boat as well.

Boat walls are not like the walls in our homes. They aren't as strong, so be mindful of the décor you hang on them. If possible, use hooks with adhesive backing. They will most likely hold better than nails unless you can locate a stud.

Because boats rock a lot, having a bunch of trinkets sitting on shelves is usually not a good idea. If you add shelving to your walls, choose the cage-style shelves that have a lip or barrier around the edge. That way, when the boat rocks, you won't have to worry about your décor ending up on the floor.

Candles are always a no-no on a boat for safety reasons. If you love the look of candles, purchase LED pillar candles instead. You get the same cozy atmosphere without the fire hazard.

It doesn’t take a lot to create an impact.

Tall vases are also not a great idea. Again, you don't want items toppling over every time the boat moves. Low-profile vases are a much better choice. Add a simple leaf or greenery to them, or leave them empty. Sometimes simple is best.

Organic pieces bring the outdoors in.

Rattan, wood, and other organic pieces are all great decorative choices for boats. They fit naturally with the boating lifestyle and help create a warm, relaxing environment.

If you're like me, your boat is your happy place. Be mindful of all the things you bring into that happy place. This is my rule: If it doesn't serve a purpose, it shouldn't be here.

I have neutral rattan pieces throughout; I love this light airy but also functional piece.

I try not to let items accumulate. I want my happy place to feel peaceful, and keeping it clean and organized is one of the ways I accomplish that. After all, the last thing I want to do when I come to the boat is feel stressed by clutter.

An LED candle accenting a small table with a cute coaster and small ceramic vase.

Your boat should be a place where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy life on the water. Keep it simple, keep it functional, and most importantly, make it yours. ⚓🌊🛥️