How to Host a Friendsgiving on the Water

Thanksgiving is great and all—until someone burns the sweet potatoes, Uncle Larry starts talking politics, and you’re stuck doing dishes for three hours.
That’s why Friendsgiving has become the superior holiday.
Now imagine this: your closest crew, zero cooking stress, and a boat instead of a dining room.

At Shore Thing Charters, we believe in making memories, not messes. This November, we’re helping you ditch the folding chairs and flimsy paper plates in favor of a waterfront celebration that actually feels like a vacation.

Welcome to Friendsgiving on the Water.

So let’s break it down. Here’s how to plan the ultimate Friendsgiving aboard a private charter in Savannah—complete with snacks, sips, sunshine, and your favorite people.

Friends celebrating Friendsgiving on a private sailing charter in Savannah, Georgia
(Because Stuffing Tastes Better with a Sea Breeze)

Thanksgiving Boat Charters on the Savannah River

Step 1: Forget the Rules (But Keep the Vibes)

Friendsgiving doesn’t need to follow Grandma’s rulebook. Hosting on the water permits you to rewrite the entire playbook.

Forget formal place settings.
Forget cooking for 12 hours.
Forget pretending to like canned cranberry sauce.

This is your boat. These are your rules.

That means:

  • Grazing boards instead of sit-down dinner
  • Cozy blankets and boat shoes over napkin rings
  • Champagne in reusable cups, because we’re classy and coastal

We’ll provide the views. You just bring the crew.

 

Step 2: Keep the Menu Easy (and Spill-Proof)

Pro tip: nobody wants to balance a full turkey dinner on a sailboat. This is picnic-style eating with a touch of “main character” energy.

Boat-Friendly Friendsgiving Food Ideas:

  • Charcuterie + finger foods (cheese, crackers, cured meats, dried fruits)
  • Bite-sized turkey sliders or wraps
  • Sweet potato chips or crostini with cinnamon butter
  • Mini pumpkin pies or pie bars
  • Pre-mixed cocktails or canned wine/sparkling spritzes

Want to really elevate it? Bring on a local caterer or chef (we can recommend a few) who specializes in small-bite spreads or boxed gourmet lunches perfect for sailing.

Bonus: No one has to fight over who brings the green bean casserole.

haunted Savannah sailing tour and sailing chartes for the spooky season from Savannah to Tybee

Step 3: Set the Mood (Fall, but Coastal)

Who says fall decor can’t work on a boat?

Bring these on board:

  • Battery-powered candles or fairy lights
  • A cozy throw blanket or two for breezy moments
  • A mini pumpkin or fall-themed centerpiece
  • Reusable cups, plates, and cutlery in warm tones
  • A bluetooth speaker + your “Grateful but Still Hot” playlist

And of course, don’t forget the group selfie. The golden-hour lighting over the water? Unmatched.

 

Step 4: Choose the Right Charter Time

In November, Savannah’s weather is surprisingly mild—cool mornings, sunny afternoons, and crisp evenings that feel just right. That gives you options for your Friendsgiving cruise:

  • Midday Picnic Cruise: Warm sunshine, calm waters, perfect for lounging and munching.
  • Sunset Toast + Chill: Cozy fall colors + clinking glasses while the sky puts on a show.
  • Evening Lantern Cruise: Full cozy mode with warm drinks and soft lighting.

 

 Step 5: Make It a Tradition (Or At Least a Dang Good Story)

Let’s be real—no one remembers the third round of dry turkey. But they will remember toasting spiced cider with their best friends while dolphins swim alongside the boat.
(Yes, it’s happened. Yes, it was magical.)

Whether you’re locals looking for a new tradition or visiting Savannah and want a holiday twist, Friendsgiving on the water gives you something no dining table can:
Connection + Adventure + Unbeatable Photos.

Bonus Ideas: Take It Up a Notch

Looking to level-up your Friendsgiving cruise? Here are a few extras:

🎶 Bring a Playlist

From chill indie autumn vibes to yacht rock classics, music makes the moment. Bonus points for “Come Sail Away” or “Thank You for Being a Friend.”

📸 Hire a Photographer

Want professional photos of your floating feast? We can recommend local photographers who know how to capture the golden light just right.

🥂 Build a “Gratitude Toast” Tradition

Before your first sip, everyone shares what they’re grateful for—serious or silly. (We’re always grateful for wine, naps, and waterproof mascara.)

🧺 Add a Pre-Order Picnic Basket

Ask us about local partners who provide charter-ready snack boxes and drinks so you don’t lift a finger.

How to Book Your Friendsgiving on the Water

Hosting a Friendsgiving sail with Shore Thing Charters is easy (and way more fun than hosting anything at your house). Here’s what to do:

  1. Choose your date: November weekends book quickly!
  2. Decide your vibe: Afternoon sail? Sunset toast? You choose.
  3. Tell us your headcount + food plan
  4. Show up, relax, and make memories

We’ll handle the boat, the breeze, and the good energy.

If your local or visiting Savannah, check out their events here to plan your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving week!

 The Best Way to Celebrate in Savannah This Fall

Savannah knows how to celebrate. But if you want to do something different—something low-stress, high-vibe, and actually fun—Friendsgiving on a sailboat is calling.

Skip the stress. Ditch the drama. Bring the people who make your heart full and the snacks that make you happy.
We’ll take care of the rest.

Let’s make this November one to remember.

Ready to Sail?

Book Your Friendsgiving Charter Today

Departing from Savannah, GA
Private charters for 2–12 guests
 Friendsgiving dates available all month long!

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