It’s that time of the year again, the holidays are here! Are you thinking about entering your Monterey Boat into a holiday boat parade or using it as a backdrop on a family holiday card? We are here to offer you the best tips on how to make your boat look even more spectacular this holiday season!

1)    Pick a Theme

The easiest and most effective way to decorate your boat for the holiday season is to begin by picking a theme! Themes allow you to stay focused and not get overwhelmed by the endless possibilities associated with holiday decorating.

Not sure what theme to decide on? Popular holiday themes are Charlie Brown, World Peace and Santa’s Toyshop.

If themes are not your forte another idea is to pick a simple holiday color scheme with only two to three colors. Possible color schemes are: red, green and white; blue, silver and white or silver, gold and white.

2)    Measure

Once you have selected a theme you need to gather or take measurements of your boat. Measuring the boat will inform you of how much space you have to utilize during the decorating process. It may also help to take pictures of the different angles and spaces on your boat to bring with you when you are shopping.

3)    Make a list and check it twice

For stress free shopping start by making a list of everything you already have and items that are left to be purchased. Some experts have suggested setting a budget before you begin shopping. You may also choose to label each missing item with the store name you plan on purchasing it from.  For example, Frosty the Snowman- Target $29.99.

4)    Holiday Shopping

Luckily during the holidays there are several places to shop for quality decorations. A few of our favorites are Target, Wal-Mart and Home Depot. These stores tend to offer a wide selection at several different price points.  Don’t leave home without your list, measurements and inspiration photos!

Make sure that all electronic components are out door quality! You may want to consider purchasing rope lighting for your boat. Rope lighting is easy to hang and is the least likely to get tangled with other decorations. Lighting purchased in white or bright colors is the easiest for spectators to view.

Another important thing to keep in mind when shopping for decorations is visibility of the captain. Be careful to not purchase items that interfere with the captains’ line of sight. Items that are too wide or too tall can become hazardous. 

5)    It’s time to decorate!

Now it is time for the fun part, the decorating! We recommend decorating your boat section by section. The first step is to outline the shape of your boat with lighting. This will help the boat stand out from the crowd on the water. Label and uncross tangled wires on the boat. You’re now ready to add the remainder of your decorations!

We hope our simple guide for holiday boat decorating helped! Don’t forget to send us photos of your Monterey decked out for the holiday season! Happy Holidays!