If you prefer boating through seafoam to sledding through the snow, your ideal holiday destination is probably somewhere south of the North Pole — way south. This season, why not cruise down to Louisiana’s Gulf Coast for a splashing adventure on your Monterey M Series Boat?

At this time of year, the coastal air that surrounds Louisiana’s lakes, bayous, and swamp-lined shores is milder than ever — making for a truly beautiful winter escape. Don’t worry: While the weather may be cool, the fishing and fast-paced water fun only heats up from here.

Read on to take a virtual tour of what to expect on your festive cruise of the Bayou State!

A Scenic Spin

Many boaters use Louisiana’s shoreline as a starting-off point for a Gulf Coast angling adventure. And, yes, you should absolutely do that! But as you’ll soon discover, the coastal enclave is a worthy destination in its own right.

The New Orleans area is home to a wide variety of waterways — from the quiet beachy charm of Grand Isle, to the brackish oasis that is Lake Pontchartrain. To give you some perspective on the lake’s size, it is home to the world’s longest continuous bridge over water! The view is never-ending and the adventure is, too: Louisiana might be known for its back-to-nature bayous and lush hideaways, but there’s something to be said about its expansive cruising scene, where sports like boating, paddleboarding, and tubing abound.

You can spend an entire weekend exploring Lake Pontchartrain and never really see it all — but if you want an idea of where to start, you can’t go wrong with a meandering pace along the lake’s marshy shore, or a breezy tour of its waterfront homes (many of which will likely be decked out in time for the holidays!).

Make Time For A Local Light Show

Speaking of seasonal décor...

New Orleans’ mild winters mean holiday décor can be enjoyed from the water — and you can even deck out your own Monterey for the occasion! Lake Pontchartrain’s annual Lights on the Lake is the perfect opportunity to take in illuminated views of your fellow boats as they parade along the H2O.

End Your Day With Festive Flavors

It wouldn’t be a proper trip to Louisiana without stopping for some festive flavors! Nothing will warm you up quite like a traditional seafood gumbo — which is served up all year long, but takes on an especially cheery flair when enjoyed with loved ones during the holidays! Plus, the heat of the Cajun flavors (especially the smoky, spicy andouille sausage) is sure to warm you up on cooler days — though with an average December high of approximately 65 degrees, you’ll likely never be too chilly on your trip.

And because you’ll be getting around on your Monterey, this is the perfect time to tie off at one of the local waterfront docks and simply stroll to your restaurant of choice! Or, grab a meal to go and enjoy it out on the water. There’s no wrong way to go!

There’s nothing quite like a Cajun Christmas, as you’ll soon learn firsthand from your Monterey Boat! From our family to yours, we wish you a very happy holiday season ahead.