Before you pick up the phone to make reservations for that romantic dinner for two… STOP. Instead of fighting traffic, queuing to get your table, and being at the mercy of the other diners sitting next to you, why not jump on the pontoon and head out on the water? With a little imagination, forethought, and moonlight, you can create a romantic dinner for two that your date will never forget. The most important part of creating this memorable evening is in the planning. You don’t want to be in the middle of dinner and realize you forgot something important, like cutlery or a corkscrew.
So, let’s start at the beginning and work out the details. First, check the weather. Nothing will ruin your dinner faster than a storm or rough water. Second, dock your boat before you pick up your date. Towing and launching can often be stressful and it’s important that you and your date are completely relaxed from the moment you get on the boat until you drop it off. Please make sure all your supplies are loaded on the boat before you arrive with your appointment. Check the exact time the sun sets and plan to arrive precisely at that time.
Using easy-to-find outdoor string lights, drape your pontoon with hanging icicle lights (don’t forget to plug them in before you arrive with your date). no idea either. There is nothing more romantic than walking with your partner along the pier to a pontoon that gently glows in the pinks and blues of the setting sun.
When planning your meal, you have several options. Although many ships are equipped with grills, nothing puts out the fires of romance faster than having to cook before you can sit down. For this reason, it is recommended that you first consider cooking your food at home or picking it up at your favorite restaurant. Keeping it hot or cold is no problem with a thermoelectric cooler. This is a wonderful product sold by Coleman that can not only keep your food at serving temperature, but can also hold ice and drinks. Food umbrellas are the perfect way to keep pesky bugs out of your food and can be purchased inexpensively.
Setting the table is important and if your ship is docked this can be done before the start of your date. However, if you plan to head to the middle of the lake, you may need to wait until you have chosen your spot to complete this task. There are several picnic sets available that will keep all your dining items in one place, or for a little more class, pack everything in a beautiful wicker basket. Your date will be pleasantly surprised when you pull out the table, candles, and champagne from the basket with a little flourish. Don’t forget the tablecloth!
When you’re done with your meal, simply store it back in the basket. Clean up is very easy. Follow dinner with an amazing dessert from the local bakery and a delicious cup of fresh coffee, then sit back and enjoy the romantic music playing softly in the background. By following these simple tips and adding a few special touches, the next time you suggest dinner, don’t be surprised if it has to be on the boat.