Boat Decorating Ideas for the Holidays
8th December 2025
Festive & Eco-Friendly Tips for BC Boaters
Looking for holiday boat decorating ideas? Whether you’re moored in Vancouver, exploring Vancouver Island, or cruising the beautiful waterways of British Columbia, there are plenty of creative ways to bring festive cheer onboard—even in the limited space of a boat.
For environmentally conscious boaters, holiday boat decorating can feel challenging. Many store-bought decorations are plastic-based and destined for the landfill. Thankfully, there are plenty of natural, low-impact options that look beautiful, smell amazing, and fit perfectly into the boating lifestyle.
Below are fun and eco-friendly holiday boat decorating ideas ideal for Pacific Northwest boating, especially if you have kids onboard who enjoy hands-on crafting. Most can be made with simple items from the grocery store, florist, or even the local marina market.
Fairy Lights
String solar-powered fairy lights around the cockpit or salon to create a warm, festive glow. They store easily onboard and add instant atmosphere during winter evenings on the water.
Festive Fabrics and Ribbons
A cotton tablecloth in a bright holiday red instantly transforms your salon.
Ribbon is versatile—wrap it around stainless railings, tie it into bows, or use it to hang handmade ornaments.
Flowers, Garlands & Winter Greens
A full Christmas tree may not fit on most boats, but a small potted evergreen makes a charming alternative. Garland can be tucked into your headliner or draped across the cabin.
Seasonal plants such as poinsettias or Christmas cacti add colour and can be brought home or donated after the holidays. Local florists and grocery stores across Vancouver and Vancouver Island often carry holiday-themed cut flowers perfect for small spaces.
Salt Dough Ornaments
Made from flour, salt, water, and spices, these classic ornaments are easy and family-friendly. Roll out the dough, cut shapes with cookie cutters, bake, and decorate. They store well and can last for many seasons.
Ribbon Trees
Tie pieces of ribbon onto a cinnamon stick and trim them into the shape of a Christmas tree. Display individually or create a full garland—simple, fragrant, and boat-friendly.
Foraged Natural Decor
Public spaces and trails around British Columbia offer plenty of natural inspiration. Pinecones, holly, fir branches, and pine needles can all be collected responsibly and used for centrepieces or decorative bowls. In autumn, cattails make unique displays. Always forage mindfully and follow local guidelines.
Origami & Paper Crafts
Craft paper is lightweight and perfect for boats. Try folding origami stars, snowflakes, or garlands in festive colours. Even simple white printer paper can become elegant décor.
Pomander Balls
Create beautifully scented orange-and-clove pomanders. These classic decorations dry naturally, last for years, and fill your cabin with a warm holiday aroma.
Himmelis
A traditional Finnish decoration, Himmelis are geometric ornaments made from paper or cinnamon sticks threaded with twine. They’re lightweight, natural, and ideal for hanging in compact spaces onboard.
Essential Oils
Boost fading scents by adding a few drops of clove, cinnamon, or orange essential oil. They’re perfect for refreshing salt dough ornaments or paper crafts and help maintain a holiday atmosphere onboard.
Holiday FAQs for Boaters
1. How can I safely decorate my boat for the holidays?
Use lightweight, fire-safe, and boat-friendly decorations such as solar lights, natural garlands, paper crafts, and battery-powered ornaments. Avoid anything that sheds plastic or requires open flames.
2. What are the best eco-friendly Christmas decorations for boats?
Opt for natural items such as pinecones, fir branches, oranges, cloves, cinnamon sticks, paper ornaments, and biodegradable ribbons. These are ideal for boating environments in Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and BC.
3. Can I put a Christmas tree on my boat?
Full-size trees are rarely practical, but a small potted evergreen works beautifully and fits most boat interiors. It’s also easy to transport and dispose of sustainably.
4. How do I decorate a small boat or yacht with limited space?
Choose compact décor: fairy lights, garland tucked into overhead spaces, hanging crafts, ribbon trees, and small tabletop displays. Vertical space is your friend on a boat.
5. What holiday scents are best for a boat?
Clove, cinnamon, pine, and orange essential oils all work well in small spaces. Use them to refresh homemade ornaments or diffuse naturally through pomander balls.
6. Where can I find holiday decorations on Vancouver Island or in Vancouver?
Local florists, farmers’ markets, and grocery stores often carry holiday greenery and plants. Many marine stores also stock solar lights and boating-friendly décor.
Happy Holidays from Freedom Marine
However you choose to decorate your boat this season, the team at Freedom Marine wishes you a safe and joyful holiday on the water. Whether you’re celebrating in Vancouver, Vancouver Island, or anywhere else, we hope your boating adventures are filled with warmth, beauty, and great company.
