yacht rock drinks

Throwing a Yacht Rock Party: The Essential Guide

Planning the yacht rock party.

To plan your ultimate yacht rock party with style and ease, you need to start with setting the date and time, creating the guest list, choosing the venue, and creating invitations. These sub-sections will ensure that you have everything in place to host an unforgettable event.

Setting the Date and Time

Planning a Yacht Rock party? Here’s a 4-Step Guide to Setting Up the Date and Time:

• Check Guests’ Availability: Online poll? Ask them directly? Pick a date that works for everyone.
• Weather Forecast: Keep outdoor fun in mind. Check the forecast before confirming.
• Sunset Timings: Natural lighting will add to the ambiance.
• Location Availability: Make sure the venue is free on the chosen date and time.

Summer is perfect for water activities. But be careful of the heat! Aimie learned this the hard way when she planned her friend’s 50th birthday party. So, after shifting to October, the party was a success – drinks, views and jazz music! Remember: invite those who can hold their drink. We don’t need any yacht wrecking balls!

Creating the Guest List

Organizing a yacht rock party requires a perfect guest list! Here’s what to remember:

• Invite people who love yacht rock music and can groove to its smooth tunes.
• Gather pals who enjoy being on a boat or yacht – it’ll up the party experience .
• Choose guests with a good sense of humour – they’ll keep the energy positive !

Make your party stand out with theme-based invitations that look like old album covers .

My first yacht rock party had someone who wasn’t into slow-tempo music. It was awkward! Now I’m more mindful when creating guest lists. Check if they’re genuinely into yacht rock before inviting them – it’s essential for a fantastic party!

Choosing the Venue

Organizing a yacht rock party? Selecting the right venue is key! It’ll set the tone for the whole event and provide a backdrop for your guests to make memories. Here’re some factors to keep in mind:

• Location: Choose a spot that’s easy to reach and with plenty of parking.
• Ambience: Look for a place with a nautical theme or waterfront views.
• Capacity: Make sure it can fit all your guests comfortably.
• Amenities: See what amenities are available, e.g. catering or A/V equipment.
• Budget: Think about how much you can afford and choose accordingly.
• Availability: Book ahead to secure the date and time.

Keep in mind that you want to create an immersive experience for your guests. Add special touches like decorations or hire live musicians to bring your theme alive. Plus, did you know that there’s a Yacht Rock Radio channel on SiriusXM ? Tune in on your way to potential venues for some inspiration. Finally, don’t forget to send out invitations that scream ‘yacht rock’ !

Creating Invitations

Make your Yacht Rock extravaganza perfect with the right invitations. Here’s five steps for creating them:

• Select a design that fits the theme.
• Include all important details, like time, date, and location.
• Get creative with pictures and taglines.
• Save money by sending digital invites.
• Set a RSVP deadline for a headcount.

Reflect the fun and relaxed vibe with personal touches. Draw illustrations or write notes!

Before the event, ensure everyone’s received their invites. Make follow-up calls or send reminder emails.

Create unforgettable Yacht Rock party invitations now! Add drinks for the perfect sailing success – just don’t mention the icebergs.

Yacht Rock Party Essentials

To throw an unforgettable Yacht Rock Party, you will need the right essentials. This is where the section on “Yacht Rock Party Essentials” with “Music Selection, Decorations, Dress Code, Food and Drinks” comes in. Each sub-section will provide you with all the necessary ingredients to create the perfect Yacht Rock Party atmosphere.

Music Selection

For a successful yacht rock party, music selection is essential! It’ll transport guests to the 70s and 80s , helping them relax and forget the modern life. Here are some tips:

• Start with the classics – Get the nostalgia going with iconic yacht rock anthems from Hall & Oates, Toto, and Michael McDonald .
• Variety is key – Include jazz-funk, AOR (Adult Oriented Rock), and soft pop sounds for diversity.
• Cover versions – Bring a fresh twist to the classics by seeking out unique interpretations from lesser-known artists.
• Instrumentals – Encourage guests to mingle and chat with instrumentals from big names like Jeff Lorber Fusion or Dave Grusin .
• Ending on a high – Uplifting tracks like Christopher Cross’s “Ride Like The Wind” or Kenny Loggins’s “Footloose” will leave them feeling upbeat.

Live music entertainment or a DJ can keep guests from hearing the same songs on repeat. Pre-plan playlists to guarantee all genres and sparkly rhythms. Get inspiration from curated playlists online provided by expert DJs like Spotify or Tidal .

Transform your yacht into the ultimate love boat with disco balls and a life-size cardboard cutout of Michael McDonald !

Decorations

Transform your Yacht Rock Party into an unforgettable event! Decorations are vital. The right colors, lighting and props can create the perfect atmosphere.

• Inflatable palm trees set a tropical vibe.
• String lights evoke the classic soft rock feel.
• A disco ball in the middle takes guests back in time.
• Mix standees and life-size cutouts of popular yacht rock singers around the party area.
• Choose comfortable outdoor furniture for seating.
• Include nautical elements like compasses, maps or boat ropes.

For extra fun, include hula hoops and vintage record players. Plus, a photo booth with props linked to famous yacht rock songs & lyrics! Dress like you’re in a Christopher Cross music video and get all the decoration essentials you need!

Stressing over what to wear to a yacht rock party? Don’t worry, it’s not so tricky. The 70’s smooth and laid-back vibes are key . Oversized shirts, boat shoes, or loafers to add a chic look. Bell-bottom pants for a casual style. Accessorize with circular glasses or aviators. Add a captain’s hat or sailor’s cap for bonus points!

Bold patterns, like Hawaiian prints or nautical stripes, will help you stand out . Comfort is key – go for lightweight materials like linen and cotton.

Grooming is important too! Clean-shaven for the men and beachy waves or braids for the ladies . Bronzer and lip gloss to finish off the look.

It’s an opportunity to get wild and creative. Have fun and let loose ! Start planning your outfit now and get ready to sail through the night!

Food and Drinks

No explanation needed – this is for a human writer!

• Try to keep the tone light and fun. This is meant to be a playful activity.
• Emphasize the prize for the winner – a captain’s hat and bragging rights until the next party.
• Mention that this is something that can be done with a group of friends/crew – it’s a social activity.
• You can mention a few popular yacht rock tunes (e.g. “Sailing” by Christopher Cross, “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers, “Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree) as examples.

Play ‘Name that Yacht Rock Tune’ with your crew. Winner gets captain’s hat and bragging rights until the next party! This fun and social activity is perfect for those who love yacht rock music. Try to guess the song name and artist as soon as possible. Some popular yacht rock tunes to try could include “Sailing” by Christopher Cross, “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers, or “Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree. Get your crew together and see who comes out on top!

Entertainment and Activities

To make your yacht rock party entertaining and memorable, you need to plan the right activities. In order to achieve this, the section on Entertainment and Activities with Karaoke, Photo Booth, Games, and Activities as solution will provide you with fun ideas to keep your guests engaged throughout the event.

Karaoke is a blast for parties or gatherings! Pick from various songs and genres to sing your heart out. Enhance the experience with stage lighting, costumes and props. Buy or rent a karaoke machine, or get apps to have your own karaoke night at home. Not just solo performances – friends can join in for duets or group numbers.

One unique thing about karaoke is that it’s fun and doesn’t require any musical training . It’s a great way to express yourself, build confidence, and make enjoyable memories with others. To up the ante, try wearing costumes or using props related to the song you’re singing!

Photo Booth

Photo booth is a must-have at any event – birthday parties, corporate gatherings or weddings! Here’s why:

• Get instant prints to take home.
• Customize with backdrops, props and print designs.
• Integrate with social media to share pics easily.
• Fun for all ages.
• Some even offer unique experiences like slow-mo videos or animated GIFs.
• Create a themed photo booth for added fun.

At my cousin’s wedding, I was surprised at how much cheer the photo booth brought. Trying out the props and making funny poses was great! But my favorite moment was when all my cousins huddled up for a big group picture – made possible only because of the photo booth!

Games and Activities

Searching for something to keep your guests entertained? Here are some cool Games and Activities that can add fun to your event!

• A photo booth with props and backgrounds for guests to take pictures.
• A themed quiz or trivia game based on current events, pop culture, etc.
• Relay races or obstacle courses for teamwork and communication.
• DIY craft station where guests can make personalised mugs, jewelry, etc.
• A scavenger hunt with clues hidden around the venue for guests to solve.
• Total Wipeout style sweeper arm hire is a sure way for plenty of laughs.

Make your party unique by hiring entertainers such as clowns, belly dancers or comedians . Board games lower blood pressure too (Source: University Of Edinburgh)! Don’t forget to check out our yacht rock party checklist – smooth rock and sailor hats are the perfect combo for sailing.

Yacht Rock Party Checklist

To throw an unforgettable yacht rock party, you need to have a comprehensive checklist in place. This guide will help you with the necessary preparations for a successful event in this section, ‘Yacht Rock Party Checklist’ with ‘Audio Equipment, Lighting, Tableware and Utensils, and Personal Items’ as sub-sections.

Audio Equipment

For that yacht rock party of a lifetime, quality audio equipment is a must. Here’s what you need for crisp sound:

• Outdoor speakers
• An amplifier/receiver
• A streaming device

Don’t forget the extensions cords and surge protectors , so all your gear stays powered up.

Good audio is only half the battle – lighting is essential to get that ‘yacht rock’ feel.

So start planning a night to remember with friends and family. Get the best audio equipment for your yacht rock party now!

Lighting for your yacht rock party? Endless options! Bright whites and cool blues will make your guests feel breezy. Accent lighting creates a mood and keeps guests engaged. Add some unique touch with Edison bulbs or colourful paper lanterns . Spotlights to highlight beautiful features of the yacht. Don’t forget lighting for safe navigation after the sun sets.

A friend once had a yacht rock party with warm-coloured light fixtures . Cozy ambiance with purple and pink lights plus porthole windows with natural moonlight – magical evening! Plastic champagne glasses too – nothing says ‘yacht rock’ like pretending to be fancy.

Tableware and Utensils

When it comes to hosting a yacht rock party, tableware is just as important as the music and decorations. You want your guests to be transported to the era of smooth sailing. So, opt for classic white porcelain plates and gold flatware . This elegant combo will give your table a touch of sophistication, while still staying true to the theme. Don’t forget the wine glasses and champagne flutes – yachts need bubbly!

Add nautical elements like blue and white striped napkins or sailor knot coasters . For an extra special touch, incorporate seashells or miniature sailboats as table decor . Pro Tip: Use soft lighting like votive candles or string lights to set the relaxing ambiance of a luxurious yacht party. Don’t forget your captain’s hat – you gotta look the part!

Personal Items

Heading out to the sea? Here’s a list of must-haves for your yacht party: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, swimsuits, towels, a camera, an extra set of clothes, a power bank, and insect repellent . Remember: pack only necessary items!

I once made the mistake of forgetting sunscreen and ended up with a nasty sunburn! Learn from my mistake and enjoy a memorable time on board. And when you’re done, simply throw all the empty bottles and cheese plates into the ocean – the sharks will take care of the rest!

Cleanup and Post-Party

To clean up after your yacht rock party with ease, the essential guide has got you covered. In this section, you’ll learn about disposing of trash, returning rentals, and sending thank you notes – all simple yet crucial tasks to complete after a party. Stick around to make sure your post-party is stress-free.

Disposing of Trash

Split your trash into recyclable and non-recyclable before throwing it away.

Compost leftovers and organic waste to cut down on landfill rubbish.

Always use strong, un-tearable bags for garbage.

Donate usable items instead of discarding them.

Don’t forget! Poor disposal of trash can be a health hazard and environment hazard.

Also, weigh the bags before throwing them out. Some local governments have fee structures based on weight.

For big events or parties, plan ahead for trash removal to avoid last-minute stress.

Plus, returning rentals is much easier than returning a bad haircut – just make sure to vacuum up the glitter!

Returning Rentals

It’s critical to follow protocol when returning rentals. Check for any damages or missing items before you give them back. Here are some points to keep in mind:

• Inspect rentals for damage or missing items.
• Return all items in the same condition you got them.
• Go back to the original spot or designated drop-off point.
• Use a rental transport service if needed.
• Stick to the guidelines and deadlines in your rental agreement.

Trouble can arise if you don’t return rentals properly. So, be sure to follow all steps and procedures.

Pro Tip: Snap photos of the rentals before returning them. This can help if any disputes arise. Plus, send a thank you note – it’s polite and might help cover up any puke stains in the plant pot.

Sending Thank You Notes.

Show courtesy and respect by thanking your guests after a party. In today’s digital world, a handwritten thank you note can make someone’s day. Here’s how to write the perfect one:

Writing thank you notes takes time and effort, but it’s always worth it. Use high-quality paper and pen to express your personality. If someone did something extra special, send them an extra-special thank you note with a token of appreciation.

Pro Tip: Hand-deliver your thank you notes to make your guests feel even more appreciated.

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Yacht Rock Pairs Perfectly With Cocktails

Nothing sets the mood better than music – and Yacht Rock is still a star

The anthem is Come Sail Away by Styx is the perfect anthem for a dark, cold winter night.  Dreams of a beach, a boat, and escaping helps some survive the winter.  Well, Yacht Rock pairs perfect with cocktails in the summer and evening. Yacht rock is unique music style and aesthetic commonly associated with soft rock, one of the most commercially successful genres from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s. Millennials to boomers have savored the sounds while enjoying drink.

Typified by artists like Christopher Cross, Rupert Holmes, and Pablo Cruise, Yacht Rock is  highlight the casual approach to love, life and a laid back life. Despite being a un-pc, the stuff is irresistible on days you are craving escape. It reeks of sunshine and laziness.

Yacht Rock is nuanced and usually one of the key themes. They are finding the love of your life, having a memorable one-night stand or doing something nautical. Jimmy Buffet and the beach focus is not usually in the genre.

RELATED: 5 Great Bourbons For Fall

“Yacht rock is the new hipster music. We have a yacht rock playlist at one of our restaurants, Huckleberry Square and we constantly get comments from all generations about how great the music is. At another one of our places, the notorious dove diner The 5 Point Cafe, when the music switches from the usual punk and metal, to yacht rock, people think it’s amazing, like something they’ve never heard. It’s chill nostalgic and fun goes great with cocktails, what more can you ask for?” shares David Meinert, owner of several successful Seattle bars and restaurants.

“The Pina Colada Song” is arguably the most perfect embodiment of yacht rock, fulfilling, as it does, all three of the qualifications cited above. Holmes sings about making love in the dunes, attempts to cheat on his wife, then ultimately, rediscovers that his “old lady” is actually the love he’s been searching for all along. That’s the holy trinity of Yacht Rock themes, all wrapped up in a breezy story of casual adultery.

Easy Pina Coloda

Ingredients.

• 1 pound (about 3 cups ) frozen pineapple chunks
• 3 ounces ( 1/3 cup ) white rum
• 2/3 cup coconut milk
• Optional garnishes: fresh pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, cute paper umbrellas
• Combine all ingredients together in a blender, and puree until smooth.  If the mixture is too thick, feel free to add in extra rum or coconut milk to help it blend.
• Serve immediately, topped with your desired garnishes.
• David Meinert
• Huckleberry Square
• The 5 Point Cafe

Summery Exotic Cocktails For The Last Of Winter

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26 Boat Cocktails That Will Help You Set Sail into Paradise!

As a bartender, I've had the pleasure of serving drinks to countless customers over the years. But there's something special about mixing drinks on a boat.

Maybe it's the salty sea air, the gentle rocking of the waves, or the sense of adventure that comes with being out on the open water. Whatever it is, there's no denying that the right drink can make a day on the water even more enjoyable.

Of course, not all drinks are created equal when it comes to boating. You need something that's refreshing, easy to make, and won't leave you feeling too tipsy to steer the boat.

That's why I've put together this list of the best boat cocktail recipes. These drinks are perfect for sipping on while you soak up the sun or watch the sunset over the water.

Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-time boater, these cocktail recipes are sure to please.

From fruity concoctions to classic favorites, there's something for everyone on this list. So grab your shaker, stock up on ice, and let's get mixing!

1. Amaretto Aloha Cocktail

The Amaretto Aloha Cocktail is a tropical drink that brings back memories of sailing through the Hawaiian Islands. This cocktail combines the flavors of Amaretto and pineapple juice to create a refreshing and delicious drink that will transport you to the warm ocean breezes of Hawaii.

It's the perfect cocktail to enjoy on a boat or any summer day. If you're a fan of fruity cocktails, this one is definitely worth trying.

2. The Beachy Bourbon

"The Beachy Bourbon" is a refreshing and lighter version of the classic bourbon cocktail, perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. This cocktail is a specialty creation for a beach wedding in Costa Rica, where the groom requested bourbon as the main ingredient.

The recipe combines bourbon with bright and refreshing ingredients, making it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a bourbon cocktail without feeling weighed down by the heat. Overall, "The Beachy Bourbon" is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and unique twist on the classic bourbon cocktail.

3. Hurricane Cocktail

The Hurricane Cocktail is a bright and fruity cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise with just one sip. Made with white rum, grenadine, orange juice, and lime juice, this cocktail is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors.

Garnished with orange slices and maraschino cherries, the Hurricane Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious drink that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're lounging on a boat or enjoying a summer barbecue, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So why not try the Hurricane Cocktail for your next boat party and let the good times roll!

4. Hurricane

The Hurricane is a classic New Orleans cocktail that is a must-try for any boat party. This sweet and fruity drink is made with light and dark rum, passion fruit juice, orange juice, lime juice, and grenadine. It's traditionally served in a tulip-shaped glass and garnished with a slice of orange and a cherry.

The Hurricane is a perfect cocktail for those who love a sweet and tropical taste. It's easy to make and will transport you to the lively streets of New Orleans. Don't miss out on this delicious cocktail at your next boat party.

5. Ocean Breeze Cocktail

The Ocean Breeze Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make tropical drink that is perfect for any summer occasion. Made with blue curacao, rum, and lemonade, this cocktail is a beautiful blue color that will transport you to the beach with just one sip.

The citrusy flavor of the blue curacao pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the lemonade, while the rum adds a nice kick to the drink. Whether you're sipping it by the pool or serving it at a backyard BBQ, the Ocean Breeze Cocktail is sure to be a hit with your guests. So break out the chips and guacamole and mix up a batch of this delicious cocktail for your next summer party!

6. Jungle Bird Cocktail

The Jungle Bird Cocktail is a tiki drink that is perfect for a summer day out on the boat. Made with dark rum, Campari, lime juice, pineapple juice, and a chipotle simple syrup, this cocktail is both potent and refreshing. The smokiness of the chipotle adds a unique twist to the drink, while the pineapple juice balances out the bitterness of the Campari.

The garnish of a pineapple wedge and cherry impaled with a pineapple leaf adds a fun and tropical touch to the drink. If you're looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make cocktail to enjoy on your next boat trip, the Jungle Bird Cocktail is definitely worth trying.

7. Pink Elephant Cocktail

The Pink Elephant Cocktail is a perfect addition to any boat party. This whimsical pink cocktail has a vodka base and is made with Fentimans' rose lemonade, giving it a baby pink color. A twist of lime juice adds a sharp kick to the sweet and floral flavors.

The quality of the vodka used in this cocktail is crucial, and the Aval Dor Vodka used in this recipe is a premium 'plough to bottle' vodka made from the finest King Edward potatoes grown by Colwith Farm. This cocktail is perfect for those who want a fun and flavorful drink with a cheeky kick. Serve it up in a big pitcher, poured over ice, and enjoy responsibly.

8. Salty Dog Cocktail

The Salty Dog Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for a day out on the boat. Made with grapefruit juice, vodka, and a hint of salt and lime, this cocktail is a great alternative to a traditional margarita.

The combination of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a favorite among many beachgoers. It's a simple yet delicious cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. The Salty Dog Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing and flavorful drink while enjoying the sun and sea.

9. Coconut, Lime, and Gin Cocktail

The Coconut, Lime, and Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and simple recipe that is perfect for a day out on the boat. This cocktail, said to be a favorite of Ernest Hemingway himself, combines the tropical flavors of coconut and lime with the boldness of gin.

The lightness of the drink allows for experimentation with different gin flavors, making it a versatile option for any gin lover.

For those looking to mix things up, the recipe can be easily customized by adding more lime juice or experimenting with different bitters.

The Coconut, Lime, and Gin Cocktail is a perfect addition to any boat day, offering a taste of the islands and a refreshing break from the heat.

10. Death in the Afternoon

"Death in the Afternoon" is a classic cocktail invented by Ernest Hemingway. It's a perfect blend of Absinthe and Champagne, creating a unique flavor that is both refreshing and sophisticated.

The addition of a sugar cube adds a touch of sweetness to the cocktail. If you're looking for a classic and modern cocktail, then "Death in the Afternoon" is definitely worth trying.

11. Dark 'N' Stormy

The Dark 'N' Stormy is a classic cocktail that blends Gosling's Black Seal rum with ginger beer. The sweetness of the rum is perfectly complemented by the spice and flavor of the ginger beer, making it a perfect cocktail for any occasion.

It's incredibly easy to make, and its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a great choice for any occasion.

12. Beach Blossom Rum Cocktail

The Beach Blossom Rum Cocktail is a sweet and tart, fruity, and slightly floral pink drink made with white rum, coconut, guava, pineapple, citrus, and a touch of orange flower water. The guava syrup gives it a potent, authentic guava flavor and stunning pink color.

It's easy to make and perfect for sipping on a boat while enjoying the warm summer breeze. If you love Pina Coladas or other classic tropical summer cocktails, this one is a must-try!

13. Malibu Sunset

If you're looking for a tropical cocktail that will transport you to an island paradise, look no further than the Malibu Sunset. This vibrant drink is made with just three ingredients: pineapple juice, coconut rum, and homemade grenadine syrup.

The layers of color in this cocktail are sure to catch your eye and the fruity flavors will have you feeling like you're lounging on a beach somewhere. Whether you're hosting a summer party or just want to treat yourself to a refreshing drink, the Malibu Sunset is a must-try. So grab a glass, add some ice, and get ready to sip on a taste of the tropics.

14. White Lady Cocktail

The White Lady Cocktail is a classic gin-based cocktail that is perfect for a boat party. This refreshing cocktail is nicely balanced and has a wonderful foam that sits perfectly on top. It is similar to a gin-based Side Car Cocktail and is also known as the Chelsea Side Car or Delilah.

The White Lady Cocktail is great for your afternoon happy hour or after-dinner drinks. If you are looking for a light and refreshing cocktail that will impress your guests, the White Lady Cocktail is a must-try.

15. Bahama Mama

The Bahama Mama is a fruity rum cocktail that combines tropical flavors of coconut, orange juice, pineapple juice, and coffee liqueur. This rum-forward drink is perfect for anyone looking for a vacation in a glass.

The addition of coffee liqueur might seem unusual, but it adds a unique depth to the cocktail that balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients. It's a fun and aesthetically pleasing drink that's perfect for hosting or treating yourself to. The Bahama Mama is a must-try for anyone who loves fruity cocktails with a bit of a kick.

16. El Presidente Cocktail

The El Presidente Cocktail is a Cuban classic that deserves a spot in every cocktail lover's repertoire. Made with aged rum, vermouth blanc, orange liqueur, and grenadine, this boozy stirred cocktail is more like a Manhattan than a sour cocktail. The unique combination of ingredients gives it a subtly bitter, sweet, and citrusy flavor that is unlike any other cocktail.

The use of aged rum brings a nuanced flavor with undertones of vanilla, coconut, almond, citrus, or caramel. This sophisticated and complex cocktail is perfect for sipping on a boat while enjoying the beautiful scenery. If you're looking for a slow sipper that's different from the usual rum cocktails, give the El Presidente a try.

17. Blood Orange Margaritas

One of the standout cocktails in the Boat Cocktail recipe collection is the Blood Orange Margarita. This vibrant drink is a refreshing twist on the classic margarita, with the addition of freshly squeezed blood orange juice. The blood oranges not only give the drink a stunning color but also add a unique flavor with a hint of berry.

This cocktail is perfect for those who love a good margarita but want to try something new and exciting. The recipe is easy to follow and can be made in batches, making it perfect for entertaining. If you're looking for a delicious and visually stunning cocktail to impress your guests, the Blood Orange Margarita is a must-try.

18. Tequila Breakfast Mimosa

The Tequila Breakfast Mimosa is a unique twist on the classic brunch cocktail. This cocktail combines the sweetness of fresh grapefruit juice with the bold flavor of tequila, making it a perfect choice for those who love a little kick in their drink.

The addition of Prosecco gives it a bubbly finish, making it a refreshing and light drink. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for the flavors to truly shine through. If you're looking to impress your guests with a new brunch cocktail, the Tequila Breakfast Mimosa is definitely worth a try.

19. Rum Punch Mimosa

If you're looking for a cocktail that can transport you to a tropical paradise, look no further than the Rum Punch Mimosa. This cocktail combines the classic mimosa with the flavors of a traditional rum punch, resulting in a delicious and refreshing drink that's perfect for any occasion. Made with rum, pineapple juice, grenadine, and champagne, this cocktail is a great choice for brunch, dinner, or even as a dessert.

The combination of flavors is sure to please even the most discerning palates, and the addition of champagne adds a touch of elegance to this already impressive cocktail. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a delicious drink to enjoy on your boat, the Rum Punch Mimosa is a must-try cocktail that's sure to impress.

20. Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco

If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make boat cocktail, Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco is a must-try. This cocktail combines the sweetness of raspberries with the tanginess of lemon and the fizziness of prosecco. It's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a summer party or a cozy night in.

The recipe calls for just four simple ingredients, making it a quick and easy cocktail to whip up. The best part? You can easily substitute the prosecco with sparkling rosé for a different twist. Overall, Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco is a delicious and versatile cocktail that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings.

21. Pineapple Mojito

The Pineapple Mojito is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that's perfect for summer parties and gatherings. This cocktail is a twist on the classic mojito, with the addition of fresh pineapple chunks that add a tropical sweetness to the drink.

The cocktail is made in a pitcher, making it a great option for serving a group of people. The Pineapple Mojito is a great choice for those who love fruity cocktails with a hint of mint. If you're looking for a fun and easy cocktail to serve at your next boat party, the Pineapple Mojito is definitely worth a try!

22. Giggle Juice

Looking for a fun and fruity cocktail to share with friends on a boat? Look no further than Giggle Juice! This fizzy and fantastically fun cocktail is a perfect choice for those looking to add some giggles to their boat ride. Made with sweet Moscato wine, tart lemonade, and citrus vodka, this cocktail is sure to leave you feeling light and bubbly.

The addition of fresh sliced strawberries and lemon adds a delicious touch of fruitiness to the mix. Plus, with its easy-to-make recipe, you'll have more time to enjoy the summer sun and laughs with your friends. So, grab a glass, pour yourself some Giggle Juice, and get ready to giggle the day away on your boat ride!

23. Paloma Aperol Spritz

The Paloma Aperol Spritz is a refreshing summer cocktail made with Aperol, grapefruit soda, tequila, fresh lime juice, and topped with prosecco. The combination of Aperol and grapefruit soda creates a sweet and slightly bitter taste that pairs perfectly with the kick of tequila.

The addition of lime juice gives it a tangy twist, making it a perfect thirst-quencher on a hot day. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to serve on your boat, the Paloma Aperol Spritz is definitely worth a try.

24. Paloma Cocktail

The Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing and fizzy tequila-based drink that is perfect for a hot summer day on a boat. This low-calorie cocktail is a favorite in Mexico and is like a bubbly margarita. The main ingredients are tequila and grapefruit, but there are variations that can be made to suit individual preferences.

The Paloma Cocktail is easy to make and can be served with crushed ice and a lime wedge for an extra citrus kick. If you're looking to experiment with tequila drinks or want a break from the traditional margarita, the Paloma Cocktail is a must-try. So, grab a glass and enjoy the fruity and fizzy flavors of this delicious cocktail while cruising on your boat.

25. Pear Vanilla Gin Fizz

The Pear Vanilla Gin Fizz is a refreshing and elegant cocktail made with a homemade pear and vanilla simple syrup, gin, and soda water.

The combination of juicy pears, vanilla, and gin creates a perfectly balanced flavor that is both sweet and refreshing. The cocktail is garnished with a thinly sliced pear and a vanilla sugar rim for an extra touch of sweetness.

26. Paper Plane

Looking for a cocktail that packs a punch and is dangerously sessionable? Look no further than the Paper Plane cocktail. Equal parts Aperol, bourbon, Amaro, and fresh squeezed lemon juice, this lesser-known cocktail is a modern take on the pre-prohibition cocktail "The Last Word".

Invented by bartender Sam Ross in 2007, the Paper Plane has a certain balance to it that makes it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast. While it may not have much in common with its predecessor, the Paper Plane stands on its own as a delicious and unique cocktail that is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and see for yourself what all the fuss is about?

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About the author.

Barry Lee is an expert on all things boozy. He worked as a bartender instructor for many years, teaching people how to make cocktails like a pro. These days, he's busy teaching people how to make cocktails at home. Barry loves experimenting with flavors, and he's always coming up with innovative cocktail recipes.

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Blend with ice, serve in a hurricane glass with a straw, garnish with an umbrella through an orange wheel and two brandied cherries. Throw on some Michael McDonald and enjoy.

What a fool believes, he sees.

A tribute to the much maligned heyday of the frozen drink, the 70s, and its signature cocktails the Piña Colada, the Painkiller, and the Harvey Wallbanger. The coconut, orange juice, orange blossom water, Galliano, and vanilla extract create an orange creamsicle flavor, rounded out by the citrate and deepened by the Campari. Finalist in About.com's frozen cocktail contest.

http://abt.cm/1798Mvt

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Perfected Classic

Conventional recipes elevated to Patrón perfection.

Patrón Reposado

Yacht Rock Sangria

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Classic and citrusy, with bold fruit flavors of banana, pineapple, and orange, this sangria will be at the helm of the fun at your next party.

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Intermediate

No special tools, ingredients, or prep work required.

Standard tools and techniques, with some advanced ingredients and prep.

Involves specialized tools, techniques and homemade or exotic ingredients.

Lime wheels & blueberries

Entertaining, Warm Weather

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Ingredients

Unless noted, drinks should be made one at a time.

How to Make

• Combine liquid ingredients in a pitcher, carafe or punch bowl.
• Add large chunks of ice and stir to combine and chill.
• Garnish with lime wheels and blueberries.
• Serve over ice.

How to Stir & Strain

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You don't have to trek far to get a tequila twist on a Moscow mule that's citrusy and delicious. Made with ginger beer and Patrón Silver tequila this Mexican mule is perfect for your next happy hour.

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Royal Bermuda Yacht Club Cocktail Recipe

Let's start the weekend right--with a cocktail recipe from Paul Clarke ( The Cocktail Chronicles ). Need more than one? That kinda week, eh? Here you go. Cheers!

Before there was tiki, there was tropical. Back in the 1930s and early '40s, as Don the Beachcomber was spawning what was to become a wave of openings of Polynesian palaces, bartenders and restaurateurs were filling up their liquor shelves with rum and experimenting with new concoctions.

One of the earliest to be influenced by the Beachcomber was Victor Bergeron, who saw what Donn Beach had started in L.A. and took the idea home to Oakland, revamping his old Hinky Dinks watering hole and renaming it Trader Vic's . In 1947, Bergeron published Trader Vic's Bartender's Guide , an extensive recipe guide detailing hundreds of drinks, including many proto-tiki mixes that reflected the experimentation that had been going on in earlier years.

The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club Cocktail has a few of the tropical essentials: first, it's based on rum; second, its flavor is fleshed out with fresh lime juice and the little-known syrup called falernum ; and third, the name has both Caribbean and nautical overtones. It's a few steps short of a full-blown Nui Nui, Sumatra Kula or Pearl Diver's Punch, but there's no shame in that. On a warm spring day, when the mood for something bright and tropical hits you but you're not quite up for breaking into full luau mode, the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club Cocktail fits the bill quite nicely.

Recipe Details

Ingredients

2 ounces  Barbados rum (Mount Gay and Cockspur are common, and good, brands)

3/4 ounce fresh lime juice

2 dashes Cointreau

2 teaspoons falernum *

Add ingredients to a cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Shake well for 10 seconds, strain into chilled cocktail glass.

Falernum can be hard to find, but it’s not impossible. Velvet Falernum is a lightly alcoholic version sold in liquor stores, while Fee Brothers makes a non-alcoholic falernum that can be found in some liquor stores and specialty food stores. If you’re still stumped, or just looking for that homemade touch, it’s quite easy to make your own .

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Jungle Bird Is the Word

April 01, 2022, story: punch staff, photo: lizzie munro, the bitter tiki classic has its own flock. here are six of our favorite riffs—clarified, smoky and spiked with cold brew..

A decade ago, the Jungle Bird was a rare sighting. Even as its tiki siblings rose to prominence, the ’70s-era combination of blackstrap rum, Campari , pineapple and lime juice remained a relative obscurity.

Today, the bitter-tropical mixture has not only returned from the brink of extinction—helped along by Campari’s rising star—its popularity supersedes that of many of its tiki brethren. In fact, it’s arguably the genre’s biggest crossover hit, as comfortable alongside Zombies and Pearl Divers as it is next to Negronis and Old-Fashioneds . Naturally, in the wake of the drink’s meteoric rise, a requisite flock of new riffs appeared.   

Among these are recipes that retain two of the drink’s central components— rum and Campari—with the addition of modifiers that take the bittersweet profile in unexpected directions. In New York City, Dante’s Jungle Bird , for example, adds a measure of rabarbaro amaro alongside the bar’s signature “fluffy” juice , for a version that rests firmly in aperitiki territory. Or consider Garret Richard ’s Yacht Rock , which swaps pineapple for orange juice and adds a hit of crème de cacao for a drink he describes as “a weird orange-chocolate thing.” It became a popular off-menu item at New York’s Slowly Shirley and The Happiest Hour.

Dante’s Jungle Bird

A mashup of Dante's beloved Garibaldi and the bitter tiki classic, the Jungle Bird.

Garret Richard's Jungle Bird riff is "bitter and a little bit light."

Kingston Soundsystem

Suze stands in for Campari in this Jungle Bird variation.

Other modified Jungle Birds ditch the Campari altogether. Shannon Mustipher’s Kingston Soundsystem opts for the gentian liqueur Suze , which ticks the bitter box while adding a vegetal, herbal boost to complement the duo of rums in her shaken cocktail. Meaghan Dorman’s Getaway Car , meanwhile, calls on Ancho Reyes chile liqueur to add a spicy kick to the straightforward build. 

The modern flock of Jungle Birds also includes drinks that, at first glance, bear little visual resemblance to the original. The Stirred Bird , for instance, is, as the name implies, stirred and served up in a coupe. But the ingredients are textbook Jungle Bird—rum, Campari, lime and pineapple juices—that have been given the clarified treatment for an entirely different experience of the classic. The Roman Holiday , meanwhile, omits rum altogether, calling instead on Amaro Meletti and cold-brew coffee as the base, complemented by the expected Campari and pineapple and lime juices. As the drink’s creator, Chicago’s Nandini Khaund, explains, “This riff on the Jungle Bird would ideally be drunk in the afternoon on the Italian Riviera, but looking out towards Chicago’s lakefront in the sun feels pretty good, too.”

Getaway Car

Smoky-spicy-sweet ancho chile liqueur adds an unexpected twist in this Jungle Bird riff.

Stirred Bird

A stirred spin on the Jungle Bird.

Roman Holiday

This Jungle Bird omits rum altogether, focusing on amari and cold-brew coffee instead.

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10 nautically themed cocktails to try… anytime!

• Katy Stickland

Suitable for any occasion whether on board or on dry land, why not sample this range of nautically themed cocktails!

The London Yacht Club

Credit: George Layne

Made at the  Caravan restaurant on Exmouth Market, London. The London Yacht Club has been created by mixologist Ben Peel and is exclusively available on the Caravan cocktail menu.

Ingredients:

35ml coconut infused rum 25ml Falernum spiced rum liqueur 15ml fresh squeezed lime 10ml Cointreau/Triple Sec 10ml Agave syrup

Chill the cocktail glass. Place all ingredients into a cocktail shaker and add ice. Shake vigorously. Strain and then fine strain the cocktail into the glass. Garnish with a lime zest.

Black Pearl

Created by  Hamilton’s Bar & Kitchen , Edinburgh

The Black Pearl uses a very nautical base of rum, and is inspired by and named after the fictional vessel. This twist on an Old Fashioned is perfect, and definitely one to enjoy on a crisp evening.

25ml Ron Zacapa 23 25ml Jack Daniel’s single barrel 3 dash bitters 3 dash peychauds bitters 5ml brown sugar Orange zest Soda

Add sugar, splash of soda and orange zest in to mixing glass. Muddle to break down the sugar. Slowly add the rum and whisky over ice and stir until required dilution. Double strain into a chilled cocktail glass. This drink may also be served over ice. Suggested garnish: orange zest or fresh cherry.

Belvoir’s Royal Regatta

Credit: demo

35ml Gin 35ml Pressed apple juice 4-6 Mint leaves 100ml Belvoir Elderflower & Rose Pressé

Method:  Build ingredients into a hi-ball glass with cubed ice and top with chilled Elderflower & Rose Pressé.

Fleur de Belle

Credit: Till Britze

37.5ml Rock Rose Gin 15ml RinQuinQuin 15ml Cocchi Rosa Splash of Lagavulin

Method: Add all ingredients (except Lagavulin) into a mixing glass then add ice. Stir to chill and dilute. In a chilled cocktail glass, add a splash of Lagavulin whisky and swirl to coat the glass. Drain off the excess whisky then pour the chilled cocktail into the glass. Garnish with a flamed orange zest & rosemary.

Cotswolds Salty Dog On the Rocks

A plain sailing version of the classic Salty Dog.

Ingredients: 60ml Cotswolds Distillery London Dry Gin 75ml Fresh pink grape fruit Lime Infused sea salt. (dehydrate lime zest with sea salt)

Method:  Rub a fresh lime around the rim of the hi-ball or Copa glass and immerse rim into lime infused sea salt. Place all other ingredients into an ice filled shaker, shake and strain into ice filled hi-ball or Copa. Embellish with a twist of grapefruit peel

Continues below…

Delicious and easy to make cocktails for all occasions

From nautically themed drinks to winter warmers and summer coolers, these delicious cocktails are perfect for any occasion, whether you're…

Cooking on a boat: salads and light bites

From Dee Caffari's tortilla pizza to The Boat Cookbook's author Fiona Sims brown shrimp and borlotti beans salad, these delicious…

Cooking on a boat: how to create delicious meals in the galley

There's nothing quite like enjoying a meal at sea, but it can be tricky to cook in a small galley…

Cooking on a boat: lunch and dinner

Simple and delicious meals that are quick and easy to make even in the smallest of galleys

Who Lives in a Pineapple under the Sea

Created by Rocket Restaurants .

35ml Pineapple Ciroc 25ml Pineapple Juice 12.5ml Lime juice 12.5ml Mango puree 12.5ml Coconut syrup

Build the ingredients over crushed ice in a catalina glass. Top up with crushed ice and add a Blue Curacao float. Garnish with a pineapple leaf and pineapple slice.

Slingsby Gimlet

The gimlet was promoted and drunk by British officers back in the 19th century.

Rear-Admiral Sir Thomas Desmond Gimlette is cited by some as the namesake of the gimlet. Acting as a doctor to sailors, he administered gin with lime in order to mask the bitter taste. Allegedly, he introduced this to his shipmates to help them swallow down the lime juice as an anti-scurvy medication. British sailors, though – unlike their superior Naval officers – had rum rations, and so used to mix this in with their lime. The drink became known as ‘grog’.

35ml Slingsby Navy Strength gin 50ml Pink Grapefruit Juice 10ml Roses Lime Cordial

Method: Shake all ingredients with ice and serve in a martini glass with a salted rim.

Mak-e Mak-e

Credit: Susie Lowe

Created by the Treacle Bar and Kitchen , Edinburgh. The Mak-E Mak-E is a traditional rum-based Tiki drink,  named after the Fertility God of Easter Island. Great for an adventurous summer on the waves.

30ml Cîroc pineapple 12.5ml triple sec 1/2 stick lemongrass 12.5ml sugar syrup 3 dash angostura bitters 25ml fresh lime juice 12.5ml Ron Zacapa 23

Pour all ingredients except the run in a cocktail shaker or beaker and shake together. Double strain into rocks glass over crushed ice. Slowly pour 12.5 ml Ron Zacapa 23 to float at top.

Rock Rose Revenant

50ml Rock Rose Navy Strength 25ml Rock Rose 18.75ml lime juice 18.75ml Pomegranate juice 18.75ml Cocchi Amaro 12.5ml Falernum (Velvet or homemade) 1 or 2 dashes of Angostura bitters

Method: Before you begin, please note, this drink is not for the faint hearted!

Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker then add ice and shake until cold. Strain into a large Tiki mug, filled with crushed ice. Add straws and garnish.

Garnish in Tiki drinks falls into the ‘go big or go home’ category. Be as outrageous as you like. Here we’ve kept aside one of the limes we’ve juiced and filled it with yet MORE Navy strength, which we’ve set on fire! Enjoy.

Cotswolds Salty Dog Martini

This a la mode version of the classic Salty Dog is intensified by the complex botanicals of the Cotswold’s Distillery Gin . We set sail with a gentle encounter of maraschino cherry on the lips, which introduces the citrus notes of the gin (lime & grapefruit peel), increasing to an alluring bitter sweet citrus zest of the grapefruit. The lime infused salt around the rim will suppress the bitterness of the fresh grape fruit and intensify the explosion of ice cold citrus spice on the palate.

50ml Cotswolds Distillery London Dry Gin 75ml Fresh pink grape fruit 5ml Luxardo Maraschino liquor Lime Infused sea salt. (dehydrate lime zest with sea salt)

Place the measure of Luxardo Maraschino liquor into a chilled martini glass, swirl and discard. Rub a fresh lime around the rim of the glass and immerse the rim into the lime infused sea salt. Place all other ingredients into an ice filled shaker, shake and fine strain into a martini glass. Embellish with a twist of grapefruit peel

The Search for the Ultimate Mai Tai

Traveling the Bay Area and beyond to find the best Mai Tai in the world! Tiki, cocktails, and adventures by Kevin Crossman

More Yacht-Rock Menu Cocktails

View this post on Instagram A couple more drinks from Kon-Tiki’s Yacht Rock Hits menu. Only $10…Cheap! First was the Calypso with White Rum, Lime, Grenadine, Passion Fruit, and Absinthe. I don’t happen to think John Denver is Yacht Rock, but this drink is really good. Second was the Key Largo, with Gin, Cream of Coconut, Martinique Shrubb, Lime, and Lemon Soda. I thought this one was just okay, but if you only like a hint of coconut and like bubbly lemon it could be a good option. Thanks to Terry @tuff_break_ for making fabulous drinks last night! #tiki #tikibar #tikidrinks #tikiculture #tropicaldrinks #cocktails #craftcocktails #rum #rhum #maitai #1944maitai #oakland A post shared by Search for Ultimate Mai Tai (@ultimatemaitai) on Jan 30, 2020 at 8:11pm PST

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The Wilmington Riverfront's new take on yacht rock is a tiki cruise with boat drinks

Sit back, close your eyes and let the river breezes blow back your hair.

Drink in the sounds of jamming island tunes while sipping a frosty, adult beverage. 

Feel like you are far away from Delaware? 

That's part of the package if you buy a ticket on one of the new boat cruises at the Wilmington Riverfront.

Two aluminum, 40-foot catamarans from a local boat tour company are awaiting passengers for public tours and private charters at the dock behind Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant and the new Taco Grande restaurant at the Wilmington Riverfront.

What's new?: Taco Grande opens at Wilmington Riverfront; Rosenfeld's Deli coming to Brandywine Hundred

The Brandywine is a normal-looking passenger catamaran that will offer historical sightseeing tours, while the Pau Hana is a vessel that has been custom-built to resemble a tiki hut. It also has a canopy resembling palm thatching that's actually a longer-lasting synthetic material.

The tiki boat, a floating party if you will, has cushioned seats, a standing area with cup holders, retractable tables and LED lighting for evening cruises.

Beachy-style music – think yacht rock, Jimmy Buffett and Bob Marley tunes – will rock through the sound system.

While guests are not permitted to bring their own alcoholic beverages aboard, a service bar equipped with a bartender will offer cold, adult beverages and tropical island-style drinks for sale.

Guests can bring food onboard (all coolers must be approved by staff) and each vessel has a restroom.

The Wilmington Riverfront tours, expected to begin this weekend, are run by D.J. Fasick, a graduate of Saint Mark's High School who earned a bachelor's degree in marine business and commerce from SUNY Maritime College in New York.

Summer stuff: You're not seeing double: There are two Dolle's signs now in Rehoboth Beach. For now

Fasick, who has a maritime license, first worked on a tugboat after graduation. For the past five years, he has been running water tours on vessels in Chesapeake City, Maryland.

"I developed a passion for being on the water and I wanted to share it with others," Fasick said.

His new catamarans at the Wilmington Riverfront, each one big enough for 48 passengers, will offer scenic river tours, twilight skyline cruises and specialty-themed events along the Christina River.

There are other tiki tours operating in Delaware, not affiliated with the one at Wilmington Riverfront, and other resort areas in Maryland and New Jersey. 

Cruisin’ Tikis on Rehoboth Bay in Dewey Beach was Delaware's first tiki boat. The business, operating since 2019, offers two-hour and custom charters. That 16-foot boat holds six people plus crew and cruises at a gentle 4- to 6- miles per hour. Passengers sit on barstools inside a tiki hut during the BYOB cruises. 

The Pau Hana tiki cruise at the Wilmington Riverfront is on a much larger vessel that has a greater capacity for passengers. It's open to all ages, but it can be booked for bachelor/bachelorette parties, corporate events and birthdays. 

"I think kids are going to look at this boat and say, 'Hey, Mom and Dad, can we go out on that neat boat?'" Fasick said.

He said public cruises on The Brandywine catamaran will have a crew member onboard explaining Wilmington's history as once being one of the nation’s most important shipbuilding centers. The city launched tens of thousands of ships over more than 300 years. 

The Wilmington Riverfront cruises, lasting anywhere from one- to two hours, will cost about $25 for adults and include round trips on the Christina River which go through the downtown Wilmington area and then cross over the Brandywine River to the mouth of Delaware near the Delaware Memorial Bridge.

The vessels are certified by the United States Coast Guard and are equipped with life vests. 

Fasick said he anticipates the tours operating Thursdays through Sundays with two trips being offered on those days. The season will last from July through October, depending on the weather. 

Reservations for tiki cruises can be made through the Paradise Tiki Tour website, tikitourboat.com/  or tickets can be purchased at the ticket office near the dock. Visit  delawarecruises.com  for more information.

The new vessels have replaced Wilmington Riverfront tours once offered on the Riverboat Queen, an 80-passenger commercial boat resembling a much smaller version of an early-American grand riverboat.

The paddle-wheeler leisurely cruised up and down the Christina River from 2009 until halting operations in 2015. It returned again temporarily in 2017. It once offered all-you-can-eat crab dinners and later had brunch and dinner cruises. 

The Riverfront Development Corp., which has owned the vessel since 2016, recently announced it had  indefinitely discontinued operations of the Riverboat Queen .

"We just made the decision to cease operations for the time being and let an outside company bring in their water attractions," Riverfront Development Corporation of Delaware Marketing Manager Joe Valenti told Delaware Online/The News Journal in an email on Monday afternoon.

"We may revisit that decision at a later date, but for now we just felt it best to work with D.J. and support him where needed," he said.

Contact Patricia Talorico at (302) 324-2861 or [email protected] and on Twitter @pattytalorico

5 Tasty Cocktails to Drink on a Yacht – The Best Recipes!

What cocktails to drink on a yacht depends mostly on what the passengers like to drink, and who doesn’t like a boat drink? A boat drink is a cocktail with a lot of alcohol commonly served in a tropical setting. Boat drinks are so popular that Jimmy Buffet penned a song, “Boat Drinks” in honour of these island favourites. Below are a few drink recipes that deserve their own songs.

Table of Contents

Bahama Mama

This classic island drink is a favourite among tourists on any island, but don’t let that keep you away! This drink is designed to drink while sitting in the sun and relaxing

Ingredients

1/2 ounce light rum 1/2-ounce dark rum 1/2 ounce 151 rum 1/2-ounce coconut rum 1-ounce pineapple juice 1/2-ounce orange juice Dash grenadine Crushed ice

This is the perfect drink for anyone who loves tangy, fruit drinks with a kick. This multi-fruit daiquiri combines the best flavours for a fantastic drink and it’s a great way to use up fresh fruit.

1 cup fresh peaches (peeled and sliced) 1 cup fresh strawberries 1 cup fresh mango (cut into cubes) 1 cup seeded watermelon 6 ounces frozen lemonade concentrate (thawed) 6 ounces light rum 2 tablespoons powdered sugar 2 cups ice cubes

In a blender, add all of the fruit, lemonade, rum, and powdered sugar. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Begin gradually adding the ice, a few cubes at a time, allowing the blender time to fully incorporate the ice into the drink before adding more. Repeat this process until the ice is gone or the drink has reached the desired consistency. Pour into chilled glasses and serve.

Mai Tais pack a greater punch than other island drinks made with fruit. This is the perfect boat drink for socialising and experimenting with the recipe. It’s difficult to mess this one up, so subtract and add ingredients according to your whims.

1/2 ounce Amaretto 1 ounce light rum 1/2-ounce dark rum 1-ounce pineapple juice 1 ounce sweet and sour mix 1/2 ounce Triple Sec Crushed ice

Mix all of the ingredients except ice together until thoroughly combined. Pour over the ice and serve.

The Mojito is perhaps the grandfather of island drinks for good reason. Nothing can beat a classic Mojito on a breezy summer night, but the Mojito is nothing if not versatile. Try this watermelon version for a twist on an old favourite!

1 1/2 cups fresh, seedless watermelon (cubed) 5 mint leaves 1/2-ounce lime juice 1/2-ounce simple syrup 2 ounces light rum Club soda Crushed ice

Muddle the watermelon cubes and mint leaves until the watermelon is crushed. Add to a shaker with the lime juice and simple syrup. Shake to combine. Add the rum and some ice and shake again. Strain the drink into a glass filled with crushed ice and add a little club soda to finish it off.

Pina Colada

The Pina Colada is another traditional boat drink that has withstood the test of time. There are many variations on the Pina Colada, but below is the classic recipe that can liven up any party.

6 ounces dark rum 8 ounces cream of coconut 8 ounces pineapple juice Ice

Combine all of the ingredients except ice in a blender. After the liquids are combined, fill the blender to the top with ice and blend until the mixture is a grainy texture. Serve in a chilled glass.

A holiday in paradise deserves a good drink to accompany it. Whip up a batch of boat drinks, sit back, relax, and enjoy your time in the sun, as you taste a bit of the island in your glass!

Want more Cocktail recipes?

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Would you like to add more cocktails recipes to the list? If so, please feel free to share them in the comments below.

Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

18 thoughts on “5 Tasty Cocktails to Drink on a Yacht – The Best Recipes!”

I like this website and I love the combination of cocktails and yachts. I like yachts and I like cocktails but I don’t like rum. I love Irish whiskey but it never occurs to me to make cocktails with whiskey. Do you have any ideas for whiskey coctails? I was recently in Venice, Italy and we found a cocktail bar that offered about 50 different types of mojitos … delicious!

I am glad you like my website. There are a lot of whiskey cocktail recipes to be founded on the internet. I am sure it won’t be a problem to find a great one :).

If you find a good recipe, I’ll be more than happy if you share it with us!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a wonderful day!

Thanks for advising on some great drinks to share when on a yacht/ship cruise! I also like that you have videos for each to show clearly how to make them (I always like to see how the drinks are made so this is helpful)…

Hmmmmmmm some other cocktails I like to offer my guests…..The main ones that I get asked about seem to be the PinaColada, Sex on the Beach, Mojito, and anything with Bailey’s…

Thanks for “stirring up” my mind hehe, always good when that happens!! Cheers!!

You are very welcome, and thank you for the comment.

Ah. A collection of classics if I’ve ever seen one. I haven’t spent much time on a yacht, but I’ve been to beach resorts and enjoyed these beverages.

These days, though, I have to order them ‘virgin’ style. They are just about as good that way, so nothing lost.

Gary share-a-like dot com

Beach is also a wonderful place to enjoy a refreshing cocktail:)

Thank you for your comment and wish you an awesome day!

Hi Daniella

Great website – lovely theme and amazing colours and user interface. Very easy to navigate with information laid out beautifully (especially the destinations!).

A nice introduction to sailing for many who have always wondered about it but never experienced it. The page on cocktails is very enticing!

Best wishes,

Thank you , I am glad you enjoyed navigate in my website .

Have an awesome day!

Checking out your 5 island drinks, makes me want to go back down south again for another vacation. I have had 4 of the drinks you have mentioned quite often. The fifth drink choice Mojito I have never had with watermelon juice. I have always liked the mixed drinks over beer and wine, and there is nothing better than having a drink on a boat on a nice summers day. Some day I will have to try a catamaran vacation down south and have some of my favorite drinks.

The Mojito is a very tasty cocktail, and you should try it definitively on a Cat! Catamarans are so stable that you won’t spill a drop of your cocktail 🙂

Thank you for the comment and have a wonderful day

Hi, you’ve got really nice website and a great article with delicious recipes.. I like that you used a video for each recipe. It’s always better if you can watch how to prepare it.

I don’t drink alcohol anymore but when I used to drink it my favourite was pina colada. I even have a bartending course which I passed at high school 😀

Thanks for sharing:) Iveta

Thank you for the compliment, I am glad you like my website.

Hope to see you soon again:)

Have a great day!

Hi Daniella,

Thanks for the fantastic article again – I want to try them all! I’ve tried Mojito myself, and I know all other’s by name but have never actually tried, especially Daiquiri seems tricky as you need a lot of different fruits if you want to make it on your own. But the videos certainly help, and by watching them, I forget this cold weather here in the UK, I’d love to go somewhere warm and drink these while sailing on a yacht!

Yes, I agree, you will certainly appreciate the cocktail under the sun while relaxing on a beach or on a yacht:)

Thank you for the comment

Awesome post Daniella!

This is an awesome list of drinks! I work at a Martini Bar and most of these drinks are on our most popular drink menu.

My favorite is the Bahama Mama and the Pina Colada, what is your favorite drink from this list?

Once again, great stuff, keep ’em coming!

My favorite drink is definitely the Mojito:)

No matter where I am, this is what I drink!

Thank you for passing by and for the comment.

Wish you a great day!

I loved all the different recipe you have on your website. I have been in the restaurant business for over 10 years as a chef. My friend was a bartender and her Mai Tai ingredients were pretty similar to the one you have on your website. Great videos as well!

I saw an error in your about me box, you might want to delete the a before passionate. Hope you don’t mind. I know that looks more like a typo. Besides that Nice job!

That’s great because I have many friends that are in the restaurant business as well:)

Thank you for the tip and for the comment, I really appreciate!

Have a wonderful day!

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Yacht Rock: How the Smooth Sounds of the ’70s and ’80s Became a Genuine Genre

July 9, 2019

When the weather’s warm, the weekends long, and the cocktails crafted using blue curaçao, there’s no better music than yacht rock —the soft, smooth sounds released between roughly 1976 and 1984 that typically feature vocals and keyboards with guitars barely audible in the background. Yet, this genre of music didn’t even have a name until a few years ago.  

Artists like the Eagles , Fleetwood Mac , and Chicago were once viewed as belonging to an adult-contemporary, soft-rock bridge between ’70s disco and ’80s arena rock. But in 2005, a few friends noticed that several artists’ albums of the era had boats on their covers. They jokingly called these albums “marina rock” and created a 12-episode comedy video series that went viral. Yacht rock was born, and today the video series’ creators even have a podcast, Beyond Yacht Rock .

On Spotify, yacht rock is most popular among those aged 45-54 and 18-24, indicating that listeners who came of age during the music’s heyday and their children love those smooth grooves. While yacht rock is most streamed in the U.S., U.K., and Canada, when measured as a percentage of total streams yacht rock is far and away the most popular in New Zealand. In fact, seven of the top 10 cities that keep yacht rock on repeat are in New Zealand (which also just so happens to be the current holder of the America’s Cup —coincidence?). 

But what are the defining characteristics of yacht rock? Let our yacht-or-knot list below be your celestial guide.

Check out the official Yacht Rock playlist .

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This Is the Definitive Definition of Yacht Rock

By Timothy Malcolm July 12, 2019

Michael McDonald. One might say the smoothest mother in music history.

Image: Randy Miramontez / Shutterstock.com

About 10 years ago , somebody showed me a YouTube video of Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins writing a song that’s smoother and more polished than anything else on the airwaves.

That video—lovingly spoofing the writing of the Doobie Brothers' 1978 hit “What a Fool Believes”— was the first episode of a series called Yacht Rock . Premiering in 2005 on the Los Angeles-based television incubator Channel 101, Yacht Rock struck a chord with a generation of music nerds who attempt to compartmentalize and categorize the songs they heard as children. The term “yacht rock” itself grew out of the video series, permeating our culture today as much as the music had back in the late 1970s and early '80s.

But here’s the thing about terms that permeate our culture today: They get compromised and bastardized to fit other people’s cozy narratives, typically based on their own nostalgia. Google “yacht rock” and you’ll find articles from across the media spectrum attempting to define the term , failing hard because these writers just don’t get it. There’s even a new BBC series about yacht rock , and while it went into great detail providing context on the emergence of the musical style, it still turned out to be one person’s definition that included songs that were—as some of us might say— nyacht rock.

I’m here to set the record straight—or smooth. Yacht rock is music, primarily created between 1976 and ‘84, that can be characterized as smooth and melodic, and typically combines elements of jazz, rhythm and blues, and rock. You’ll hear very little acoustic guitar (get that “Horse With No Name” out of there) but a lot of Fender Rhodes electric piano. Lyrics don’t get in the way of the song’s usually high musicality (some of the finest Los Angeles session players, including members of the band Toto, play on many yacht rock tunes.) The lyrics may, however, speak about fools. The songs are as light and bubbly as champagne on the high seas, yet oddly complex and intellectual.

And just to hammer this home: Fleetwood Mac is not yacht rock. Daryl Hall & John Oates are 98 percent not yacht rock. Those folkie songs from America, Pure Prairie League, and Crosby, Stills & Nash? Nope. Rupert Holmes's "Escape (The Piña Colada Song)"? Too wordy and not musically interesting—not yacht rock. How about "Summer Breeze" by Seals & Crofts? A little too folky, but close.

I’m not affected by personal nostalgia (I was born in 1984, just as the yacht rock era was ending); instead, I’m an objective music lover who just so happens to have been researching yacht rock for the past several years. I know the men who coined the term “yacht rock” ( they have a great podcast and actually rate whether or not a song is yacht rock ), and they can back me up on this. 

So whether you’re docked for the summer or about to set sail on an adventure, allow me to steer you in the right direction. I've crafted for you the definitive yacht rock playlist—below are a few highlights:

“What a Fool Believes,” The Doobie Brothers

I won’t get any nerdier, I’ll just say that this is the song that epitomizes yacht rock. It’s effortlessly melodic, bouncy, and bright, features a prominent Fender Rhodes electric piano, and includes an ultra-smooth vocal from Michael McDonald.

“Heart to Heart,” Kenny Loggins

Loggins never quite knew whether to be a jazzy folkie or a rocker, but in between those two phases were a couple yachty gems, including this cool breeze on a warm summer day, from the 1982 album High Adventure . Just listen to Loggins’s vocal—it’s butter.

“FM,” Steely Dan

Steely Dan brought a New York edge and a habit of wanting the best players on their records to Los Angeles. In time their sound morphed into the whitest smooth jazz on the planet, aka yacht rock. “FM,” from 1978, has both that snarky exterior and smooth center, but look up the band’s classic albums Aja and Gaucho for a number of yachty delights.

“Human Nature,” Michael Jackson

Once you get to know yacht rock, you can begin traveling into yacht soul—smooth songs from top studio players that lean just a little harder on the R&B. This classic song from the 1982 album Thriller was written and performed by Toto. Jackson provides the gorgeously breezy vocal.

“Rosanna,” Toto

Speaking of Toto, these guys were and still are awesome musicians. The 1982 hit “Rosanna” proves this in spades—the drum shuffle is iconic, the twists are remarkable, and the sound is smoother than a well-sanded skiff.

“Nothin’ You Can Do About It,” Airplay

Who is Airplay? A one-album band created by mega-producer David Foster and session guitarist Jay Graydon. These guys wrote Earth, Wind & Fire’s “After the Love Has Gone,” then this absolute stunner from 1980, a bouncy, giddy, and gentle pop classic.

“I Really Don’t Know Anymore,” Christopher Cross

Emerging out of nowhere with a Grammy-winning album in 1979, Cross is the perfect yacht rock figure, a normal-looking white dude who just so happens to sing like the wind on a summer’s evening. This song, from that debut album, is essential yacht rock with a noticeable background singer—of course, Michael McDonald.

If you want to catch McDonald and sing along to some of his yacht rock classics, he’s performing Friday night at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands. Chaka Khan—who also has a few yacht rock tunes in her catalog—will open. Tickets start at $39.50; prepare accordingly with this  summer yacht rock playlist on Spotify . You’re welcome.

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How to Make Cocktails

A guide by Robert Simonson

The first act of any dinner party rightly belongs to the cocktail, and so does the first moment of repose after a long day. With more than two centuries of history behind the cocktail, there is an art to making a good drink. Here, we’ll show you the basics: how to equip your bar, the drinks equivalent of a well-stocked pantry, and then how to use it to prepare five classic cocktails.

If you want to build something — even a cocktail — you’ll need tools. Here’s a rundown of the necessary equipment.

Tony Cenicola/The New York Times

Above, from left: Y peeler, bar spoon, mixing glass, julep strainer, muddler, jiggers, Boston shaker and Hawthorne strainer.

A Boston shaker , which consists of a mixing glass (the same shape and size as a 16-ounce Shaker pint glass) and a metal tin, is sufficient for all shaken and stirred cocktails. For stirred drinks, you’ll need a long-handled bar spoon . If you enjoy the ritual of stirring a cocktail, and want to feel slightly grand as you do so, there are a number of lovely, wide-mouthed, heavy-bottomed mixing glasses on the market.

To strain stirred drinks you’ll need a julep strainer , which has a perforated bowl shape. Shaken drinks require a Hawthorne strainer , which has a metal coil wrapped around its bowl to keep out citrus pulp. If you’d rather invest in only one strainer, the Hawthorne can do double duty.

Precise measurements produce a far better drink, so you’ll need a jigger . Jiggers are composed of two opposing metal cones. Unless you are a stickler, you really only need one size, the ½ ounce/1 ounce, with which you’ll have all the most common measurements covered. You can eyeball the rest.

A simple Y peeler will work for citrus twists. Completing your toolkit should be a muddler , which is used to mash up the fruits, herbs and sometimes sugar cubes used in some drinks. Old-fashioned wooden specimens work best.

Many on-the-rocks drinks, such as the Old-Fashioned, benefit from large-scale ice cubes . Molds for these (usually about 2 x 2 inches) have become increasingly easy to find.

Stocking Your Bar

It doesn’t take a great many bottles to build a bar capable of tackling most of the classic cocktail formulas. But, to begin with, you’ll just need a bottle each of gin, vodka, light rum, tequila, bourbon, rye, blended Scotch, brandy, dry white vermouth, sweet red vermouth, a few essential liqueurs and a handful of bitters. As you grow most ambitious, you can always add to your stock. Making simple syrup is, yes, simple, and you should keep it on hand too.

Liquors and Vermouths

The gin should be a classic London dry brand , a style of gin which is suited for martinis, gin and tonics and other classic gin drinks. (If you enjoy a Tom Collins or Martinez, however, the sweeter Old Tom gins are more appropriate.)

The tequila should be 100 percent agave , not the cheaper “mixto” products, which blend a minimum of 51 percent agave with other sugars.

For the bourbon and rye, buy something 90 proof or more and aged at least four years (“bonded” whiskey, which must be 100 proof, is even better); you’ll get more kick and flavor out of your drinks. The process by which bourbon and rye are aged in new, charred oak barrels lends the liquid much of its flavor and all of its color. The more age (but only up to a point), the more character.

Blended Scotch is called for more often in cocktails than single malts , whose strong flavors can be difficult to mix with.

You’ll want light rum around primarily for daiquiris. Taste a few until you find one that suits you. (If you’re a buff of tiki drinks like the mai tai, you’ll want to look into some dark rums.)

With brandy cocktails, it’s Cognac you want, and a good one (which is not the same as an expensive one).

The small difference in taste between vodkas is lost in cocktails. A fancy bottle with a fancy price won’t make much difference. Economize.

Sweet and dry vermouths vary remarkably in flavor. Most of the leading brands are acceptable, but you’ll want to try a variety in your martini and manhattan before you settle on one. More important to remember is to store your vermouth in the fridge one it has been opened. Vermouth will spoil. It will last about a month. For this reason, it’s smart to buy the small 375-milliliter bottles.

Both orange liqueur (curacao, triple sec, Cointreau and Grand Marnier are all members of this large category) and maraschino liqueur (not to be confused with the liquid that surrounds bottled maraschino cherries) are required in a number of important cocktails.

Certain liqueurs are so original in their flavors that they are categories unto themselves, which no other brand can replace. These included Campari (needed for a Negroni), Benedictine (Bobby Burns) and Chartreuse (Last Word).

Bitters are composed of a proprietary blend of spices, herbs and other plants that have been infused, usually in spirits, and sometimes aged. Highly concentrated, bitters work in drinks the way spices do in food. They are also, in historical terms, the ingredient that makes a cocktail a cocktail.

The most famous brand is Angostura. It is the one bitters your bar cannot be without. The other two crucial bitters are Peychaud’s (used in a Sazerac) and orange bitters , of which there are many varieties.

Simple Syrup

Sugar is called for in many cocktails, both new and classic. While plain sugar can certainly be used to make these drinks, simple syrup — which is nothing more than sugar water — often leads to a better integration of ingredients and consistency of texture, with no stray granules lingering at the bottom of the glass.

To make simple syrup, simm er equal parts sugar and water over a low flame until the sugar has dissolved. Then let the solution cool. It will keep for a week. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container.

If you’re in a hurry, shake the sugar and water in a sealed container until the sugar disappears. For a richer syrup, try two parts sugar to one part water. This will lend a greater viscosity to the cocktail. Demerara and turbinado sugars can also be used for a richer, deeper flavor.

Part of the fun, and some of the beauty, of serving cocktails is that every drink has a proper vessel. Some are so ingrained in drinking culture that they have taken on the name of the drink they typically hold (the Martini glass, the Collins glass). Here is what you’ll need.

The Glasses

Above, from left: coupe, Collins (or highball) glass, rocks glass and another coupe.

Coupes are for drinks that are served “up” (that is, in a stemmed glass and not over ice). Avoid the iconic, jumbo-size martini glasses. Four-, five- or six-ounce coupes are more than big enough and perform their function with more elegance and moderation.

Rocks glasses , also known as old-fashioned glasses , are used for any drink served “on the rocks” — that is, over ice — such as an old-fashioned , but also for strong drinks that aren’t, such as the sazerac . These should be six to eight ounces. The so-called “double old-fashioned” glass is 12 to 15 ounces.

Tall, thin Collins glasses , also known as highballs , are required for many light-bodied drinks that are “served long,” such as the Pimm’s Cup and, yes, the Tom Collins . They hold anywhere from 10 to 16 ounces.

A chilled glass always contributes to the excellence and enjoyment of a cocktail. For those who think ahead, place the glass in the fridge 15 minutes before you intend to use it. This lends an attractive frost to the glass. A quicker method is to fill the glass with ice, or ice water, and let it sit for a minute while you prepare the drink.

Shaking and Stirring

Nearly every cocktail of note is brought into being by either stirring the contents over ice in a mixing glass or shaking them with ice in a cocktail shaker, and then straining it into a waiting cocktail glass. Here’s how to do it right.

Shaking is called for when a drink contain either citrus, dairy or eggs (e.g., a daiquiri , Ramos gin fizz or Pisco sour) and a bit more vigor is required to mix its ingredients.

To shake a cocktail , combine the ingredients and ice in a mixing glass. Place a metal shaking tin atop the glass at a slight angle and hit the top of the tin with the heel of your palm. This should create a tight seal. Turn the shaker over so that the glass is facing you. (This will prevent you from spilling on anyone but yourself should the seal break while you are shaking.) With one hand on the bottom of tin and the other on the bottom of the glass, shaking rigorously in an up and down fashion. (Cocktail shakes vary. In time, you’ll figure out the one that works best for you.)

Stirring is for drinks composed of nothing more than beverage alcohol ( martinis , manhattans , etc.).

To stir a cocktail , simply combine the ingredients and ice in a mixing glass and, using a bar spoon, held loosely between thumb and your first two forefingers, stir the mixture in a fluid, circular fashion until chilled and properly diluted, about 30 seconds.

By Robert Simonson

• Yield 1 drink

The martini is the undisputed king of cocktails, nearly a category unto itself. The frosty, austere, all-alcohol icon has bewitched palates and imaginations for more than a century, to a measure no other drink can even approach. The trend toward drier martinis, with only trace amounts of vermouth, began after World War II. (In martini vernacular, “dry” means less vermouth, “wet” means more.) That style remains popular. But, thank goodness, in recent years crusading bartenders have brought proportions back close to historical, wetter dimensions. A martini isn’t a martini without the herbal tang of vermouth; a 3 to 1 ratio of gin to vermouth should satisfy both tastes, given that the vermouth is of good quality and fresh.

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ ounces London dry gin
• ¾ ounce dry vermouth
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Lemon twist or olives, for garnish

Preparation

• Stir all ingredients over ice until chilled, about 30 seconds. Strain into chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or olives, depending on your taste.

There are some who adhere to dry-martini dogma when making a manhattan, thinking the drink improves with less vermouth. But the classic, best and most flavorful ratio for this drink remains two to one. Whether you use bourbon or rye is entirely a matter of taste. Bourbon will get you a slightly sweeter, more mellow drink; rye a drier, spicier one. Both versions can be excellent. Use homemade cocktail cherries if possible, or a quality brand like Luxardo. Eschew the common neon-red orbs found in supermarkets. They are cherries the way that stuff movies theaters put on popcorn is butter.

• 2 ounces rye or bourbon
• 1 ounce sweet vermouth
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Cocktail cherry, for garnish
• Stir ingredients over ice until chilled, about 30 seconds. Strain into chilled coupe glass. Garnish with cherry.

Nico Schinco for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Barrett Washburne.

The daiquiri is a classic sour — that is, a family of cocktails made with spirit, sugar and citrus juice — whose simple, straightforward appeal has been obscured for years by frozen, fruity variations. One doesn’t need a blender to make one, just fresh limes, good rum and sugar. The proportions of syrup and juice can be adjusted, depending on whether you prefer a sweeter or more-tart style.

• 2 ounces light rum
• 1 ounce simple syrup
• ¾ ounce fresh lime juice
• Lime wheel, for garnish
• Shake all ingredients with ice until chilled, about 15 seconds. Strain into chilled coupe glass. Garnish with lime wheel.

Old-Fashioned

Christopher Testani for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Simon Andrews.

The old-fashioned is one of the oldest mixed drinks in the cocktail canon. (Original name: whiskey cocktail, which became old-fashioned whiskey cocktail, and then just old-fashioned.) It is a stirred drink, usually built in the glass in which it is served. Both rye and bourbon are suitable base spirits. For the sweetener, purists muddle up a sugar cube with water and a couple dashes of bitters, but simple syrup works as well. Twists can be orange, lemon or both (known as “rabbit ears”). A fruited version of the drink came into vogue after Prohibition and involves the muddling of a cherry and orange slice along with the sugar. That version remains widespread, but we advocate the more elemental rendition that took hold in the late 1800s, one that allows the flavors of the whiskey to shine.

• 1 sugar cube (or 1 bar spoon simple syrup)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitter
• Orange twist
• Muddle the sugar cube and bitters with one bar spoon of water at the bottom of a chilled rocks glass. (If using simple syrup, combine bitters and one bar spoon of syrup.) Add rye or bourbon. Stir.
• Add one large ice cube, or three or four smaller cubes. Stir until chilled and properly diluted, about 30 seconds. Slip orange twist on the side of the cube.

Tom Collins

The Tom Collins is perhaps the ultimate highball and one of history’s most enduring cocktails. It was historically made with Old Tom gin, which is sweeter than London dry gin, but the drink works well with both types of the spirit. (Old Tom only recently became available again, thanks to the clamoring of mixologists.) A peculiar methodology is used in mixing up a Tom Collins. Though it contains fresh juice, which usually dictates that the drink must be shaken, it is nonetheless often built in the glass in which it is served. But shaking the drink and then straining it into an ice-filled highball works as well, and arguably leads to a better integrated cocktail.

• 2 ounces Old Tom or London Dry gin
• ¾ ounce lemon juice
• Lemon wedge, for garnish
• Shake gin, syrup and juice with ice until chilled, about 15 seconds. Strain into an ice-filled highball. Top with soda water. Garnish with lemon wheel or wedge and a cherry.

Garnishes are the cocktail equivalent of the hat that completes the outfit. They lend color, wit and, very often and most crucially, a taste accent to a drink. They’re not to be underestimated.

The garnish to any cocktail isn’t a frivolous decorative afterthought, but an integral part of the drink. This is particularly true of citrus twists , wheels or w edges , be they from lemons, limes , oranges or grapefruit . Such twists lend a brightness to a cocktail.

Cutting a proper twist requires some agility and a bit of practice. Begin with a clean, washed piece of fruit with an attractive color and a fair amount of surface area. Take a Y-peeler and start at the top of the fruit and pull toward you at a diagonal. This will render a long, wide twist, which you can either leave as is (a large twist looks particularly attraction in an old-fashioned or martini ) or cut down to the dimensions you prefer. Be careful not to sink the peeler in too deep, to avoid a twist with too much bitter pith attached.

For a lemon, lime or orange wheel, cut a section roughly 1/4 inch thick from the center of the fruit. These are usually either perched on the edge of the glass, via a small cut in the side of the wheel, or floated on the surface of the drink. To create a citrus-cherry “flag,” often used to garnish sours like the whiskey sour or Tom Collins , fold a citrus wheel or half-wheel around a cherry and fix the two together with a toothpick.

A wedge of lemon or lime is the same size and shape you might cut to adorn or spritz over a piece of fish.

As for cocktail cherries , use homemade if possible, or a quality brand like Luxardo. Do not use the bright red specimens you might see on top of an ice cream sundae.

For olives and coc ktail onions , avoid the mass-produced store brands. There are a few “craft” cocktail olives and onions now on the market, which are marginally better. But, if you really wanted to do your drink a favor, pickle your own olives and onions. It’ll take you all of a half-hour, and you’ll thank yourself with every sip.

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Robert Simonson, Philip Ward

Horseradish Pomegranate Margarita

Pete Wells, Ryan Magarian

Texas Two-Step

William L. Hamilton, the Ritz-Carlton

Chilled Tequila Shots With Lime and Salt

Mexican Martini

Jordan Mackay

Mezcal Cocktails

Rosie Schaap, Ivy Mix

Mezcal Royale Punch

Rebekah Peppler

15 minutes, plus at least 3 hours’ chilling

They Didn’t Burn Rome in a Day

Florence Fabricant, Douglas Sheehan

The Pink Angel

Rosie Schaap, Will Noland

Pearl of Puebla

Jonathan Miles, PDT

La Canadiense

Florence Fabricant, Hecho en Dumbo

Single Village Fix

Jonathan Miles, Beretta

Watermelon Sugar

Pete Wells, Mayahuel

72 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Moscow

Sure, Moscow is the Russian political capital and the nation’s most populous city, but describing it as such couldn’t be any further from the truth. More accurately, Moscow is a city of contrasts.

It exudes history — its Kremlin dates back centuries, nodding to royalty and leadership old and now, while the famed Red Square, the poster child of the city, blends striking color with ancient tradition and religion.

On the other hand, it’s a city of modern pop culture and towering skyscrapers; a place where you’ll come across new-age museums, arts centers, manmade parks, and an efficient transportation system that’s one of the most beautiful in Europe.

It’s a city of longstanding culture — the Bolshoi Theater is an international symbol for excellence in classical dance, while Russia’s National Ballet Company remains renowned worldwide — as well as upbeat nightlife, with some of the world’s most celebrated rooftop bars and nightclubs.

While it’s a city filled with opposites, there remains no shortage of things to do in Moscow for all types of travelers — from those who want cultural immersion to those looking for an epic night out, you’ll be spoiled for choice. And if you’re not sure where to start, here’s a list of suggestions!

The Moscow Kremlin

If there’s any particular district begging to be the first place you visit on your trip, it’s the Kremlin.

Built in the 16th century by Ivan the Terrible, the UNESCO-listed area has since become the heart of Russia’s capital city, where you’ll find several churches, palaces, and other noteworthy buildings.

We’ll dive into each of its main attractions in a second, but regardless of what you visit, try to make it to the Kremlin in time for sunset — because seeing its golden domes glinting in the late-afternoon light makes for one spectacular tourist photo!

Click here to learn about Kremlin tickets prices .

1 – Admire the abundance of Kremlin towers | the Kremlin

As your eyes dart down the towering red-brick Kremlin wall, the first thing you’ll notice is its large towers of all different styles and sizes.

With a whopping 20 separate minarets towering above the historic area, each with its own name, colors, features and history, a guided tour to learn each of their fascinating stories is a must.

To give you a little taste, the Konstantin-Yeleninskaya Tower once housed a torture chamber. Saviour’s Tower at the main entrance boasts a famous chiming clock, the Secret Tower houses a secret escape tunnel, and the Trinity Tower is the tallest of them all.

• Moscow Kremlin tours

2 – Visit the enormous Grand Kremlin Palace | the Kremlin

A remarkable attraction in terms of both beauty and history, the Grand Kremlin Palace is an ornate rococo-style building that was commissioned during the reign of Nicholas I, and today acts as the official residence of none other than the Russian president, Vladimir Putin.

Perched atop Borovitsky Hill, its 125-meter-long facade is unmissable, making for impressive photos.

Take note: guided tours are few and far between, so you’ll have to book a few weeks in advance if you want to check out the decorated inner sanctum.

Directions in Google Maps

3 – People-watch in Cathedral Square | the Kremlin

One of the most popular areas in all of Moscow (sometimes called Sobornaya Square), with multiple massive churches at its heart, Cathedral Square is flanked by several historic buildings and is never shy of a tourist crowd.

The three main churches — each spectacular works of architecture in their own right — are the Cathedral of the Assumption (the oldest and the biggest of all Kremlin churches), the 16th-century Cathedral of the Archangel Michael (known for its beautiful Corinthian gables and turrets), and the golden-domed Cathedral of the Annunciation (which connects to the Grand Kremlin Palace’s main building).

Throw in the 60-meter-high Ivan the Great Bell Tower, the lesser-known Church of the Twelve Apostles , the Church of the Deposition of the Virgin’s Robe (underrated yet famous for its marvelous stained-glass windows), and the medieval residence-turned-museum that is The Patriarch’s Palace, and you can see why this square is regularly number one on any visitor’s list of things to do in Moscow.

4 – See a show at the State Kremlin Palace | the Kremlin

Just like the Grand Kremlin Palace , this theater and prestigious concert hall — with its grandiose facade and multiple sculptures — is another ornate building that’s worth admiring.

A popular place to hold conferences, the State Kremlin Palace was originally built as part of a larger complex for Communist Party meetings, but today hosts some of the biggest events in Moscow — we’re talkin’ sold-old ballet performances, world-famous concerts, opera shows, and festivals.

Check the website to see what’s on the calendar for your visit!

5 – See centuries worth of national treasures at the Armoury Chamber | the Kremlin

For anyone with an interest in historical weaponry and armor, this museum — which dates back to the early 1500s when it was created as the royal armory — is a must-see.

The Armoury Chamber (as well as the Diamond Fund Exhibition) is home to some of the most valuable objects that were originally owned by Russian monarchs — from jeweled heirlooms and intricate boxes to ornately decorated pistols and swords — many of which are centuries old.

Within the armoury chamber, you’ll also find the Russian historical regalia, a collection of artifacts that belonged to Russian tsars and emperors between the 13th and 20th centuries, highlighted by the Ivory Throne and the Monomakh’s Cap.

• Armoury Chamber tours

6 – Step inside the Palace of the Facets | the Kremlin

The Palace of the Facets is one of the most underrated buildings in all of Moscow, largely because it’s not as widely promoted or photographed even though its exterior adorns some postcards.

From the outside, it blends in with the crowd. But step inside and you’ll discover a world of beauty and wonder — its frescoes, golden columns and enormous rooms are a sight to behold

The Palace of the Facets is not only a piece of art (literally, with painted walls), dating back over 500 years, but also acted as the dining hall for the Tsars.

7 – Feel small next to the Tsar Bell | the Kremlin

Making Philadelphia’s famous Liberty Bell look diminutive in size, this monument , which never actually functioned as a bell due to its immense size (at 205 tons and standing 20.1 feet high!), has found fame in recent years for being the heaviest attraction inside The Kremlin.

With the bronze landmark’s claim to fame of being the biggest bell in the world, it presents as a great, quick photo op when roaming through the Kremlin.

8 – Check out the Senate Palace | the Kremlin

Another architectural masterpiece that’s tucked away within the Kremlin, this palace is famous for being one of Moscow’s most beautiful buildings — its yellow façade curves around to face inward and truly engulf anyone who stands near it.

Built back in the late 1700s, today it houses the Russian presidential administration and, unfortunately for us, is off limits to the general public.

Still, admiring it from outside, with the nearby Tsar Cannon, is certainly good enough.

9 – Grab a photo in front of the Tsar Cannon | the Kremlin

One of Moscow’s most iconic symbols, Tsar Cannon (or Royal Cannon) is a cannon that was manufactured in 1586 and resides — yep, you guessed it — within The Kremlin.

Following the theme of the enormous Tsar Bell, it weighs a whopping 39 tons — making it one of the world’s largest cannons even though it has never been shot.

And while its size may be impressive on its own, what makes this cannon so special is that it’s adorned with intricate carvings, ornaments, inscriptions, and a figure of a horse-riding Tsar Feodor the Bellringer.

• walking tours in Moscow

10 – Join a tour of the Terem Palace | the Kremlin

A stunning, fairytale-like palace that’s steeped in history and detail, the five-story Terem Palace is one of the most underrated attractions within The Kremlin. However, as part of the official residence of the Russian President, much of it is off-limits to snap-happy tourists.

That said, there’s still plenty to be seen in the accessible areas by joining a group tour: a beautiful white-stone carved staircase; curved, decorated, and painted ceilings; and an enchanting low-vaulted Antechamber with lancet windows.

The Red Square

As we move away from the Kremlin, our next stop is the most photographed, picturesque public area in the country.

Flanked by gorgeous, colorful towers and buildings, the Red Square is the most famous square in all of Russia — and one that’s steeped in history, patriotism, and communist symbolism.

Home to some of Moscow’s greatest landmarks including St Basil’s Cathedral (featuring its iconic onion domes), Lenin Mausoleum, GUM department store (an architectural masterpiece that is the most famous shopping mall in Russia), The State History Museum, and more, it’s not just a sight to see in Moscow but also one that has been seen by hundreds of millions from around the world.

11 – Make your way inside St. Basil’s Cathedral | Red Square

Built back in the early 1500s, this quirky-looking, 65-meter-tall Orthodox church is so unique and detailed that it’s earned its place as one of 16 UNESCO cultural sites in Russia — and, thanks to many Hollywood productions like Bond: Skyfall (2012), has only continued to increase in fame.

Its exterior boasts multi-colored domes crowned with golden onion top spires. Meanwhile, inside, you’ll find nine small, separate chapels, and plenty of decorated walls and windows — all best viewed as part of a walking tour of Red Square.

• Red Square tours in Moscow

12 – Visit the State Historical Museum | Red Square

One of seven museums that can be found around the expansive Red Square, the State Historical Museum is one of Moscow’s most revered.

Housed in a neoclassical building (the same as GUM), it features more than 4 million items relating to Russian history — making it so vast and incredible that you’ll need at least two hours inside to see just a fraction.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Marshal Georgy Zhukov Monument, a towering horse-riding statue of arguably the most famous and heroic Soviet military commander of WWII, which can be found in front of the museum.

13 – Shop till you drop at GUM | Red Square

The official state department store of Russia, having opened in 1893 and become one of Moscow’s most iconic attractions for shopaholics over the years, is known for its gorgeous architecture that looks more like a palace than anything else.

Entering through its massive golden doors, you’ll be surprised to find an extensive shopping center with more than 100 luxury and world-renowned brands of clothing and accessories for men, women, and youngsters.

Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, stop into the Gastronom №1 for a bite to eat or take a stroll through its corridors to appreciate the building’s history and beauty.

14 – Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum | Red Square

Another iconic Red Square attraction is Lenin’s Mausoleum, a small yet foreboding building that houses the embalmed corpse of Communist leader Vladimir Lenin (who led Russia through the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917).

Opened in 1930 after his death and standing at more than 12 meters tall, it presents as both a unique and macabre site — and, considering the life-like nature of the body, certainly isn’t for the faint of heart.

Note: Entrance is free of charge, but expect to be searched by security before being allowed in.

15 – Ride the Moscow Metro, enjoying the beautiful stations along the way

As we leave the Red Square, the next cab off the rank is Moscow’s unbelievable artistic Metro network (rivaled only in beauty by that of Stockholm). Constructed between the 1930s and 1950s, its stations were built by hand with a wide range of artistic themes — from socialist realist to Slavic pagan.

Tips: The best way to experience them is as part of a Moscow Metro tour, which can be booked online. However, if you prefer exploring solo, then make sure to visit the Mayakovskaya Metro Station which is known for its seemingly endless archways.

You may also check out Dostoyevskaya, named after a famous writer with murals depicting his stories. The Ploshchad Revolutsii Metro Station is another option where a handful of Socialist statues provide a wonderful contrast to the red marble arches.

• metro tours in Moscow

16 – Spend the afternoon exploring the State Tretyakov Gallery

Boasting the reputation of being one of the world’s leading art museums, the State Tretyakov Gallery is home to a stunning collection that features well over 100,000 works from Russia and around the globe.

Featuring everything from ancient Russian icons to Soviet-era artifacts and contemporary pieces, the museum also houses a charming green garden perfect for recharging.

Visitors are advised to allocate at least three hours inside to properly appreciate everything on show — or consider booking a private VIP tour to skip the lines and focus on the best sections.

• Tretyakov Gallery tickets

Click here to find out the best Moscow tours .

17 – Get out of town to the Tsaritsyno Museum & Nature Reserve

Located a short drive from the hustle and bustle of the Red Square, this incredible attraction is both a palatial museum and cultural center, with an enchanting open-air garden to boot — spread across 405 hectares altogether.

Boasting beautiful 18th-century baroque architecture, it was originally built as a country retreat for Catherine the Great. However, it has since been transformed into an outdoor museum with several museums inside — including exhibits dedicated to Russian history and culture.

18 – Tick off the main haunts with a hop-on hop-off bus ride

Short on time or just can’t be bothered walking around anymore? Then make sure to check out the double-decker Hop-on-Hop-off Bus, a convenient and cheap way of seeing all the main attractions in one go.

With unlimited-ride tickets lasting between 24 and 72 hours, there’s plenty of flexibility to soak in must-see areas like Red Square, the Kremlin, Arbatskaya Square, Theatre Square, and the Red October neighborhood — and with a free audio tour (in English) throughout the ride, you’re sure to learn a thing or two as well.

Busses usually run every 15 minutes, with the full city loop taking roughly an hour — of course, you can disembark and reboard to your heart’s content.

• bus tours in Moscow

19 – Learn about military history on Poklonnaya Hill

For an up-close and personal experience with the past, make sure to check out Poklonnaya Hill — a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 20 minutes out from the city center that’s home to several relics from Russia’s pre-revolutionary era.

It has everything from Great Patriotic War memorials dedicated to fallen soldiers of the Russian military forces, to the Eternal Flame and the Museum of Great Patriotic War. This is an unmissable opportunity for history buffs.

Hot tip: While you’re in the area, be sure to stop into the Victory Museum (the nation’s biggest military history museum) and check out the gold-tipped Church of St. George the Victorious .

20 – Get artsy at the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts

Home to one of the finest and most significant art collections in Russia, the highly-regarded Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts showcases everything from medieval icons and paintings. With over 500,000 pieces of works by renowned artists like Rembrandt, Renoir, Picasso, Matisse, Karl Bryullov and Rubens, the museum is undeniably one of the best things to do in Moscow for art lovers.

The museum also houses impressive exhibits dedicated to ancient Greece, archaeological collections, decorative arts and a 200,000-item Numismatic library.

21 – Take a charming stroll down Arbat Street

Boasting everything from galleries and craft stores to souvenir shops, cafes, and some of Russia’s finest restaurants and hotels — as well as top-notch street performers (like jugglers and caricaturists) — Arbat Street is one of Moscow’s most famous pedestrian hubs for good reason.

The entire walkway, flanked by colorful buildings, stretches about a kilometer through the historic district, making it the perfect start to any day of inner-city exploring.

22 – Lounge around at the Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

One of Moscow’s biggest and most beloved green spaces, Gorky Central Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to soak in some fresh air.

The park boasts 45 hectares of picturesque grassland, forests, Golitsinsky Ponds (home to squirrels and ducks), walking trails, fountains and the Neskuchny Garden. This place is also home to the wooden Olivkovy beach, a hot spot for photographers looking to appreciate the Moskva river.

Plenty of cafes line the well-manicured park, likewise public art projects and picnic spots and an open-air cinema in the summertime!

While a relaxing day in the gardens is never a bad idea, if you’re looking for something a little more interactive, there’s the 18-meter-tall Observation Platform and a handful of museums on site. The Gorky Park Museum , Muzeon Park of Arts , Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and New Tretyakov Gallery are all noteworthy stops within walking distance.

23 – Stare at the ceiling of the Christ the Savior Cathedral

On an easy stroll from the southwest side of the Kremlin, you’ll find a majestic memorial cathedral doused in history: the 5-golden-domed Christ the Savior Cathedral .

With a beautiful color-contrasting exterior that still falls short of the intricately painted inner walls and ceiling, this underrated (due to not being in Red Square with the other main cathedrals) attraction is a must for the bucket list.

24 – Zoom around town in a Soviet van

If a hop-on-hop-off bus screams of cliche tourism, why not get a little more cultured by skirting around the city’s main haunts in a real, war-era soviet van?

Undeniably one of Russia’s most emblematic vehicles as both a symbol of a Soviet past and a comical cultural nod to its boring exterior (dubbed the “loaf of bread”), the UAZ-452 vans are iconic.

So whether you opt for a pub crawl, landmark sightseeing tour, or day of adventure with wintertime off-roading, be sure to ride shotgun in one of the loaves of bread at some stage!

• soviet tours

25 – See sharks up close at the Moskvarium

The mightiest aquarium in Europe (by size), the Moskvarium is an impressive modern space dedicated to the beauty and diversity of aquatic life.

Located right on the outskirts of Moscow’s city center (about 20 minutes drive from Red Square), this huge complex encompasses over 70 interactive exhibits. These include live shows, and the chance to go swimming with dolphins — that are sure to impress the whole family.

26 – Go underground at the Bunker 42 Cold War Museum

In the depths of Moscow’s shadow-strewn streets, hidden 65 meters beneath the tourist crowds are a Cold War-era bunker and former secret communications center.

Bunker 42 was built in 1955 as a nuclear-proof hideaway, but today you can book tours that reveal its secrets and stories — a must for the common history buff.

• Bunker 42 tickets

27 – Immserve yourself in the soviet culture at the VDNKh theme park and exhibition space

Sprawling across the Ostankinsky District, VDNKh is a massive open-air museum and theme park paying homage to Russian industry and Soviet values.

The enormous complex is decked out with several gold-clad statues and palatial pavilions, each uniquely designed to represent different Soviet interests and endeavors, such as geology and the space race.

Hot tip: For a wonderful view of the Moscow skyline, be sure to jump on the Ferris wheel after riding the small roller coasters and merry-go-round.

28 – Take a trip to the Kolomenskoye Palace

Overlooking the sparkling Moskva River about 20 kiometers south of central Moscow, the postcard-worthy Kolomenskoye Palace is a former royal estate. It’s now open to the public as an extensive park with carefully-kept gardens, including one of Russia’s oldest white stone churches (the tent-looking UNESCO-listed Ascension Church ).

It has walking trails through peaceful wooded areas and gorgeous views out over the region from its high hilltop location. The park has long been considered one of the hidden gems when it comes to things to do in Moscow.

29 – Enjoy the view from the Ostankino TV Tower

With the coveted claim to fame of being the tallest free-standing structure in Europe (and 11th tallest in the world) — standing above the Empire State Building, for reference — the 540.1-meter-tall Ostankino Tower is picturesquely located next to Park Dubovaya Roshcha, not too far from VDNH, the Moskvarium, and the widespread Park Ostankind.

So long as you’re not left lighthearted by heights, the 337-meter-high observation deck is the go-to spot for panoramic views.

30 – Blast off at the Museum of Cosmonautics

One for the space nerds and future astronauts, the Museum of Cosmonautics is dedicated to the history, present-day relevance, and future possibilities of space exploration. It provides a spectacular insight into the Soviet perspective of the 1960s space race.

Located on a lovely green site in one corner of VDNKh, the museum features an outdoor planetarium, interactive displays for children, as well as inside exhibits that showcase original spacecraft parts.

For the best experience, consider a pre-arranged tour that includes access to both the Museum and VDNKh.

31 – Complete your Moscow culinary experience with a food tour

Foodies, listen up! Moscow has gained a reputation for being one of the finest cities in Europe for foodies, with an excellent range of restaurants and bars.

For those looking for a complete Moscow culinary experience that includes some of the best hidden gems and experiences, food tours are an ideal way to go.

Depending on your tour of choice, expect to sample a few Pelmeni (dumplings), Blini (wafer-thin pancakes), and world-famous Ponchiki doughnuts. Then wash it all down with some locally-distilled vodka or Nalivka (a sweet berry-infused liquor).

• food tours in Moscow

32 – Smell the flowers at the Main Botanical Garden — the largest botanical garden in Europe

Constructed in 1945, the Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences is a 340-hectare space of plant collections and lakeside walkways to explore.

It’s one of those places that gets better as you make your way around it on foot (or even rollerblades). There are many well-kept gardens, beautiful ponds filled with turtles and waterfowl, a charming Japanese Garden and some very rare trees.

33 – Wander around the Novodevichy Monastery

The Novodevichy Convent and surrounding Kremlin-style walls combine to be one of Moscow’s most picturesque sites — a UNESCO-listed complex that was founded in the 1500s and includes an interweaving of churches, cathedrals, bell towers and a cemetery.

After admiring the buildings, check out the monastery which is surrounded by green spaces perfect for a stroll and a snack.

To learn all about its architecture and history, opt for a guided tour as recommended by most travelers.

34 – Ride the coasters at Family Park SKAZKA

If you’re traveling with youngsters who seem to never be able to burn off their energy then make a beeline for the Krylatskoye District neighborhood, home to the popular SKAZKA adventure park.

Kids can enjoy everything from bumper cars to the petting zoo, while parents might want to pop into one of the cafes or restaurants.

Even if you don’t have kids in tow, the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters invite thrill-seekers of all ages.

35 – Understand the deeper meanings of “Soviet Jew” at the Jewish Museum & Centre of Tolerance

Opened in 2012, the Jewish Museum and Centre of Tolerance is a fascinating institution dedicated to exploring and honoring the diverse complex Russian-Jewish history and culture.

Explore every facet of the role of Russian Jewry throughout the centuries — including food, artifacts, religious beliefs and cultural traditions. Visitors can also see an array of exhibits made from testimonial footage, as well as a large collection of works of Jewish artists.

For history buffs, the museum dives into the intriguing role that Jewish soldiers played during World War II.

36 – Cruise down the Moscow River!

For those looking for a unique perspective on the city, there are stacks of tours (romantic, sightseeing, luxury-themed or party-vibed) that explore Moscow from its riverfront.

Take in some of the most iconic landmarks around the Kremlin and Gorky Park on a boat. Cruises can also take you underneath bridges, entertain you with live music and offer insights into the landmarks that pass by with live audio narration.

• boat tours in Moscow

37 – Grab a table at Café Pushkin

A favorite of many Muscovites, Cafe Pushkin on Tverskoy Boulevard is an intimate spot to enjoy some authentic Russian dishes.

It’s hand-picked by locals for its traditional décor resembling a nobleman’s house and charming atmosphere (thanks largely to the rustic bookshelves). You’ll find that the menu consists mainly of classic European cuisine mixed with a few local favorites. It’s complemented by a wooden bar with a fine collection of vintage wines and regular live music.

38 – Spend the day at the Karibiya Aquapark

After a hard day exploring the city, why not spend some time out to relax and unwind at one of Moscow’s largest water parks?

Karibiya has a handful of pools (including a heated salt-water spa) and fun but not too wild slides, plus a bowling alley for the kids, a fitness center and bar for the adults. There’s something to keep everyone entertained.

39 – Take a day trip to Sergiev Posad

A photographer’s dream with blue-and-gold cupolas contrasted by snow-white walls, the ancient town of Sergiev Posad (just over an hour’s drive from Moscow) is a quaint tourist favorite. It’s famous for being home to one of Russia’s most important and sacred monasteries — the free-to-visit Trinity Lavra St. Sergius monastery complex.

Founded in 1340 AD by Saint Sergius, today it serves as an active monastery where visitors are free to attend daily services. Admire its truly remarkable artworks and historic museum collections.

• Sergiev Posad day trip

40 – Spot starfish (and monkeys?) at the Crocus City Oceanarium

One of the latest attractions in Moscow, Crocus City Mall’s iceberg-shaped  Oceanarium is a vast three-floor aquarium. It has more than 5,000 species swimming gracefully under one roof — not to mention the reptiles, birds, and monkeys that also call this place home.

Since the mall also boasts shopping centers, a pair of concert halls and a skating rink, there’s no shortage of activities on offer to whisk away a rainy day.

41 – Button-mash at the Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines

Where are the gamers at?

For anyone curious about the video games and technology of Russia’s yesteryear, there’s no better place to visit than this retro museum (complete with Soviet-era soda).

Filled with an impressive collection of more than 100 vintage arcade machines dating back as far as the late 1970s (like ”Pull the Turnip”), it’s sure to take you on a trip down memory lane.

42 – Take a walk through the Alexander Garden

While the majority of Moscow’s other top attractions require a ticket or entry fee, there is at least one gem that doesn’t. It happens to be right on your doorstep if you’re staying anywhere near the Kremlin.

Alexander Garden (also known as Alexandrovsky Sad) is an expansive park that stretches the entire western wall of the Kremlin (nearly 1km in length). It’s filled to the brim with colorful flower beds, winding walkways and calming fountains.

Don’t miss the tomb of the Unknown Soldier while you’re there.

43 – Sign up for a dog sledding adventure!

Cliche? Sure, maybe a little. Seriously fun? You better believe it!

Winter is coming, and that means it’s time to get out there and experience Russia the way only locals can — by dog sledding.

Typically lasting seven or eight hours, these outdoor adventures (which include hotel pick up and drop off) are a wonderful way to experience nature and immerse yourself in ancient Russian traditions — and hang out with a handful of adorable huskies, of course!

Seriously though, this is one of those things you’re going to want photos (and videos) for when you get back home because, really, words just wouldn’t do it justice.

44 – Walk beneath the Iberian Gate and Chapel

Facing away from the Red Square and linking Manezhnaya Square, the Iberian Gate and Chapel (sometimes called the Resurrection Gate) is overflowing with history. It acts as the spiritual entrance to the Red Square and the home of the wooden chapel that houses icons of the Iberian Virgin.

Many believe it is customary to kiss the Iberian icon before entering the gate and for boys to take off their hats. For an insight into the local culture, join a walking tour and learn more about the gate’s significance to religion and history.

To add to the importance, the gate is also the location of ‘Kilometer Zero’ — the official central point of Moscow.

45 – Play all day at the Dream Island theme park

After opening its gates early in 2020, Dream Island earned itself the coveted title of being the largest indoor theme park in Europe (yep, that means it’s even open in the harsh winter).

It’s a delight for kids and adults alike. Throughout the park you’ll find an array of rides themed around classic cartoons like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Pinocchio, the Smurfs, Hotel Transylvania and Hello Kitty. It also has charming and well-arranged streets that transport you to bustling cities like London and Barcelona!

Throw in live performances, plenty of eateries, a cinema and a hotel, and you can see why it’s become all the rage recently.

46 – Race against the clock in an escape room

An unmissable and quick activity for any budding Sherlock Holmes out there, escape rooms challenge your mind and require wit, teamwork, and logic. Figure out the puzzles and escape from each room before time runs up.

Moscow’s escape room games usually last around 60 minutes and cover a range of themes (like a USSR Nuclear Bunker or even an outdoor, app-led scavenger game) — perfect for the whole family.

47 – Chill out by the Patriarch’s Ponds

Surrounded by residential buildings in the fancy downtown Presnensky District, the enormous (9,900 square meters, to be exact) the Patriarshiye Prudy is a beautiful oasis. It’s frequented by dog walkers, picnickers, artists and musicians alike.

In summertime, you’ll find people picnicking on the grassy banks or sunbathing by the ponds. In the winter, it transforms into a magical wonderland of snow and ice, morphing into a popular public skating rink.

Directions on Google Maps

48 – Go behind the scenes at Luzhniki Stadium

Moscow’s Lujniki Stadium is one of Europe’s biggest soccer complexes, capable of hosting some 80,000 fans with an electric-like atmosphere — as we saw during its phase as the main stadium of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Besides being the current home ground of Russia’s National Football Team, it also hosts concerts by some of the biggest international acts and was also the focal point of the 1980 Olympic Games.

If your trip doesn’t line up with any sellout matches, you can still join a backstage stadium tour that explores the dressing rooms, press conference room and the field.

49 – Head to Suzdal and Vladimir for a day

A fantastic option for anyone who wants to get out of the chaos of Moscow for a minute, these two towns are parts of the Golden Ring of ancient Russian cities. They present as perfect day trips, thanks to their rich history, diverse culture and white-drenched architecture.

In Suzdal , the Kremlin fortress is the main event, with the Cathedral of the Nativity (and its 13th-century Golden Doors) captivating visitors year after year. In Vladimir , the awe-inspiring Assumption Cathedral (Dormition Cathedral) teaks center stage, with its five golden domes making for a wonderful photo backdrop

Don’t feel like hiring a car? Take the hassle out of your getaway and book a pre-arranged tour that visits both ancient towns on the same day.

50 – Escape the crowds at the Botanic Gardens of Moscow State University

Wielding the title of Russia’s oldest botanic garden, the Botanic Gardens of Moscow State University (founded in 1706) is a fantastic place to escape the city and learn about Russia’s rich flora.

The beautifully arranged garden boasts more than 6,000 plant species that span various climates across the world, allowing visitors to see everything from roses and tulips to cacti and bamboo trees!

51 – Climb inside a tank at the Kubinka Tank Museum

A must-see for any military history buff, the Kubinka Tank Museum showcases dozens of tanks and armored vehicles from across the globe, with a particularly heavy focus on Soviet Union models (to be expected, right?).

The collection includes everything from Polish TKS tankettes to the only remaining Panzer VIII Maus, a captured WWI British Mark V and the Object 172 — as well as plenty of cannons, weapons and missiles.

Serving traditional Russian military meals and national staples, even the cafe-restaurant is military-themed!

52 – Sit front row at the Moscow International House of Music

A world-renowned performance complex on the picturesque Kosmodamianskaya Embankment, this state-of-the-art venue is best known for hosting Vladimir Spivakov’s Virtuosi of Moscow Chamber Orchestra. It showcases everything from classical concerts to jazz, folk music and more!

The venue’s three magnificent concert halls welcome an array of local and international performers. Check the website to see who’s taking center stage during your visit!

53 – Drift through fresh powder on a snowmobile!

While it’s not always winter (though if you want to make the most of your snowy trip, come between December and March), as soon as that first snowfall hits, it’s time for snowmobile tours. Make for a fantastic way to explore the out-of-the-way locations and magical forests beyond Moscow’s city limits.

Even if you’ve never ridden a ski-doo or snowmobile before, the friendly expert instructors will be with you every step of the way, with safety and enjoyment always priorities.

54 – Crank your head skywards in Moscow City

A stark contrast to the ancient and colorful onion domes in the Red Square, Moscow City’s skyscape (aka the Moscow International Business Center ) is full of towering, modern glass-heavy (even twisting) skyscrapers. Many of which are vying at the top of the list of Europe’s tallest buildings.

At 374 meters tall and with 95 floors — and a wonderful restaurant on its 60th floor — the Moscow Federation Tower is a popular choice for tourists. Meanwhile, the 85th and 86th floor of the OKO Towers play host to a Russian restaurant and skating rink respectively.

Be sure to walk through the modern Bagration Bridge and, for the shopaholics, check out the stores and IMAX theater inside AFIMALL City.

55 – Check out Zaryadye Park

Within arm’s reach of the famed Red Square, the peaceful slice of greenery that is Zaryadye Park is a breath of beautiful and natural air amidst the concrete jungle. It’s the first new city park to be opened in Moscow for more than half a century.

At various points around the 10-hectare park, you’ll find a few restaurant pavilions, a media center, a museum and a botanical collection housing over a million plants. It also houses the two-stage Zaryadye Concert Hall where thousands of passersby take a seat on the steps every day.

While you’re there, don’t miss the Chambers of the Romanov Boyars, an unusual museum above the northern side of the park.

56 – Stroll around the cozy Hermitage Garden

Small yet incredibly charming and found conveniently smack-bang in the middle of the city, the Hermitage Garden is a perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of learning about Russia’s vast history.

Surrounded by the Sfera Theatre and The Kolobov Novaya Opera Theatre of Moscow , this lovely, leafy garden can be both a relaxing oasis or the prelude to an entertaining evening out.

57 – Treat yourself to a ballet show at the Bolshoi Theatre

With a reputation that precedes it, the impressive and world-famous Bolshoi Theatre is a must for any theater lover. Its rich history is making it one of the most iconic theaters in Europe.

While there are several performances to choose from throughout the year — from ballet to opera, classic dramas and even acrobatic shows — you can also get your own private backstage tour.

58 – Get artsy, then party at ArtPlay

This old tea factory turned cultural hub of Moscow’s creative arts is heaven on earth for rotating exhibitions by local artists.

Depending on what piques your interest, you can join in on everything from live music to dance classes, art studio workshops, flea markets and film screenings here. However, after the sun goes down, its alter-ego comes out to play.

So, if you’re feeling peckish, stop into the Domozhilov restaurant nearby for a shashlik. Then wash it down at the English pub with a beer before partying it up at Rodnya, a pumping techno club.

59 – Head to the PANORAMA360 Observation Deck

A surefire hit for the social media feed, the observation deck at the top of Moscow’s Federation Tower skyscraper — PANORAMA360 — is a must-see selfie stop for its killer views and … ice cream factory.

From the 89th floor, you can soak in the wonder of Moscow old and new from above. It has floor-to-ceiling windows providing 360-degree vistas, a rotating restaurant and mini-cinema to boot.

60 – Throw down a picnic blanket in Sokolniki Park

One of the largest green spaces in Moscow, Sokolniki Park is a very popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Spread across the northeastern Sokolniki District, it’s the perfect distance from the city’s main haunts where the crowds remain small but the accessibility stays high.

With its many activities — from sports to live music to festivals — not much beats this park when it comes to outdoor fun!

61 – Catch a traditional Russian dance show

To get a true sense of the rich and diverse culture in Moscow, you can’t go past one of its many folk dance shows.

While there are several to choose from, “Kostroma” and “The Golden Ring” are two crowd favorite choices. Each is thoroughly unique with traditional music and costumes sure to make for a once-in-a-lifetime night of entertainment.

Of course, due to high popularity, be sure to book in advance.

62 – Book a table at the White Rabbit restaurant bar

Perched above the historical center of Moscow on the 16th floor of the Smolensky Passage building, this lavish restaurant is a must-visit for any foodie-obsessed traveler. Why? Because it continually ranks as one of the top 50 restaurants in the world.

The drool-worthy menu made by fifth-generation chef Vladimir Mukhin consists of creative, beautiful plated meals. The coveted eaterie also boasts 360-degree panoramic views of the city and a fine collection of wines and cocktails.

63 – Have dinner inside the Vysoko-Petrovskiy Monastery

Whether you’re an architecture or history buff, while visiting Moscow, it would be a shame to miss out on the rare chance to eat in an actual monastery.

This one is particularly special as it dates back some 700 years. Not only will you get to dig into an authentic Russian menu, but learn about the history of the building and (depending on your booking package) get a guided tour too.

64 – Pass by the ‘Children Are the Victims of Adult Vices’ sculpture

This free public art installation in Bolotnaya square was created by Mihail Chemaikin in 2001. A somewhat controversial landmark, it depicts how children are influenced by vices — alcohol, theft, ignorance, violence, addiction, poverty and war, to name a few.

The sculpture’s uniqueness and thought-provoking nature makes it an essential stop on any day of wandering around.

65 – Get wild on a pub crawl!

You’re on vacation, so it’s time to let your hair down, mingle with some fellow thirsty travelers and party it up Moscow-style!

High-energy pub crawls are a great way to get acquainted with new friends while seeing Moscow’s unique nightlife scene first-hand. Let the locals lead you to hidden gems, tourist hot spots and quirky dive bars.

If you don’t feel like walking, why not join a Soviet minivan crawl instead (where you can drink Soviet champagne onboard!)?

66 – Roll up for the Nikulin Circus!

If you haven’t had the chance to see a live circus before — and especially if you’re traveling with kids — why not head over to the Nikulin Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard?

It blends traditional Russian acrobatics with modern-day technology, animals, and the classic circular circus stage. This beloved local entertainment is also considered one of the most enjoyable things to do in Moscow!

67 – Get romantic on a Moskva River dinner cruise

What better way to take in the city’s skyline than from a luxury yacht as you enjoy entertainment, fine dining, and (strong) specialty drinks?

Whether you’re looking for something large that can accommodate groups of friends or something smaller with a bit more VIP style, there are several dinner cruises available to suit any taste and budget.

68 – Explore the wonderful Izmailovo District

One of the city’s best-kept secrets, Izmailovo ‘s focal point is its Kremlin, a colorful wooden complex. Built in 2007, it has had unique museums and flea markets pop up nearby in the years since.

Throughout the area, you’ll uncover museums dedicated to vodka, break and Russian folk art. The district’s charming open-air flea market has all kinds of crafts and souvenirs are haggled on the daily.

Don’t miss Izmailovo Park , which is an enormous 300-hectare space that plays host to souvenir vendors, forest walking paths and even an ice rink in winter.

With so much to see in the district, savvy travelers typically opt for a guided tour.

• Izmailovo tours

69 – Sip on a cocktail at the award-winning City Space Bar and Lounge

Self-dubbed as one of the world’s top 10 bars, with accolades like Luxury Travel Guide’s Bar of the Year 2018, this iconic and luxurious watering hole doesn’t need much of an introduction.

Perched sky-high on the 34th floor of Swissotel Krasnye Holmy, the circular lounge bar slings signature cocktails and dishes up truly stunning views of the city.

Hot tip: While there’s never a poor time to visit, aim to arrive an hour or so before sunset, that’s when the city will truly sparkle below.

70 – Pamper yourself at the Sanduny Baths

If you’re looking for something to ease that throbbing headache after a night of pub crawling, why not try the famous Sanduny Baths , a quintessentially Russian experience?

Famed as one of the world’s most beautiful public bathhouses, Sanduny’s steam rooms and pools are said to be some of the best in Moscow. But for something totally unique, you can’t go past the birch twigs massage (read: beating).

71 – Spruce up your social media feed at some Insta-worthy restaurants

While a good meal is always part of the restaurant experience, getting a good pic for Instagram is half the fun!

Luckily, there are tons of excellent eateries that combine great food with gorgeous aesthetics.

Big Wine Freaks has a fantastic drink selection (naturally), and its dark, classy rooms full of elegant light fixtures and plush furniture bring to mind a spy’s hideout.

Meanwhile, Sempre adopts more of a naturalistic approach, surrounding diners with ferns and greenery.

And at Black Market Moscow , you can choose between indoor and outdoor spaces, each featuring their own unique designs and dining experiences.

Take a bite and snap some pics!

72 – Unleash your inner party animal at the Night clubs

When the sun goes down, you’ll get to see a whole new side of Moscow: its amazing nightlife!

Head to Propaganda for a bite or a beverage, then dance to some quality club tunes.

Or get a little wild at Chesterfield , where you can pay a flat fee and drink as much as you want – the perfect recipe for fun!

And at Rock’N’ Roll , there’s a new form of excitement every day, from DJ sets to live bands, all playing a lively mix of rock music from across the decades.

With all this excitement, you won’t want to book anything early the next day!

How to get to Moscow?

Unless you’re feeling up to the challenge of a long train journey, you’ll most likely be flying into Moscow.

Luckily, it has three international airports to choose from: Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, and Domodedovo.

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be able to easily reach the city via the Aeroexpress train.

Where to stay in Moscow?

Golden Ring Hotel  will make you feel like you’re on top of the world, whether you’re getting pampered at the beauty salon or enjoying a meal in the rooftop restaurants.

Or check in to Radisson Slavyanskaya Hotel & Business Center , which boasts everything from riverside views and a gym to nearby shopping areas and relaxing Turkish baths.

At AZIMUT Hotel Olympic Moscow , the massages, international cuisine, sauna, and swimming pool will keep you happily occupied in between excursions.

And at sister property AZIMUT Hotel Smolenskaya Moscow , you can savor a nice meal or admire the scenery from the lounge, or stroll over to Gorky Park or roam along Stary Arbat Street.

Meanwhile, Oblaka Hotel blends simple charm and a convenient location, with charming red brick exteriors and easy access to historic sites and a metro station.

• best hotels in Moscow

Visiting Moscow on a budget?

There’s nothing like seeing a city on foot… especially on a free walking tour !

These excursions aren’t just a way to save money while still learning a lot; they also offer a wonderful opportunity to gain local perspectives, courtesy of your guides.

But despite the name, they do accept tips for a job well done, so bring a bit of money with you!

Where to go next?

If you’re short on time but still want to see the best of Moscow, try some multi-day tours ; they’ll provide all of the coolest sights and experiences in an efficient format.

After that, it’s time to start exploring further afield!

Though it’s a bit of a trek, St. Petersburg is well worth the journey!

With its famously decadent buildings to its lively arts scene, this is the perfect place to soak up some culture; but there are also some more offbeat options, like folk shows, vodka tastings, and even an amusement park!

And from the jaw-dropping designs of the metro stations (yes, you read that correctly) to the glimmer of Faberge eggs, it showcases beauty at every turn.

Ready to go beyond Russia?

Dive into the best places to visit in Europe , a smorgasbord of art and history, nature and architecture, showcasing some of the most beloved cities and countries in the world.

Final thoughts

While Russia’s capital may seem imposing, its dynamic culture, live-wire entertainment scene, and remarkable history make it an unbeatable destination, with unique adventures that will linger in your memory long after you’ve returned home.

You may feel a little overwhelmed by all of the incredible things to do in Moscow… but that’s all the more reason to come back!

If you have any other must-see suggestions, noteworthy day trips or quintessential tours worth booking, feel free to write in the comments!

As always, happy travels!

Canyon Catering

Passionately Creative

Cocktails for Properly Honoring this Saturday’s Historical Launch with SpaceX and Nasa

May 27, 2020

Something exciting is happening this weekend and we need to be ready for it: NASA has partnered with SpaceX to help them launch their first astronauts to space – yes, we’re talking real-life space! Apparently, this is a historical moment for America (and the world) as the last time NASA sent astronauts to space was in 2011. This 2020 launch of the SpaceCraft called the Crew Dragon can mean incredible things for future technology and the many companies hoping for private missions to venture out into our mysterious galaxy.

The best part? SpaceX is Live Streaming it on Twitter and Youtube for all of us to watch step by step and moment by moment as Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley get blasted off in a rocketship as SpaceX’s first astronaut launch. So, what I mean by, “we need to be ready for it” is really more like, “What drinks will we be making to watch this Live Stream”? The live stream lasts a few hours so we need to be fully equipped for the occasion.

When: Saturday, May 30  at 12:22 PM Pacific Time

Backup Date: Sunday, May 31 at 12 PM Pacific Time

Here are the best options for your Space-themed weekend:

1. Deep Space

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Cointreau
• 0.5 oz brewed Earl Grey tea
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters
• 2 drops black food coloring
• 1 pinch black cocktail shimmer dust

Instructions:

• Step 1: Add all ingredients to a shaker tin with ice.
• Step 2: Shake and strain into a chilled coupe.
• Step 3: Garnish with a lemon wheel.

2. The Cosmonaut

• 2 parts Vodka
• 1 part fresh lime juice
• 0.75 part Ginger Liqueur
• Dash of Cardamom Bitters
•   Step 1: Build over a large ice sphere in a spherical rocks glass.
• Step 2: Garnish with space-candy dusted grape

3. Space Cowboy

• 1 ½ oz Hansen End of the Line Moonshine
• ¾ oz Amaro Montenegro
• ¼ oz Pineapple Syrup
• 2 dashes Token Strathcona Orange Bitters
• 1 dash Aromatic Bitters
• Step 1: Fill a decanter or large jar with applewood smoke either using a culinary smoking gun or by inverting over flamed applewood chips.
• Step 2: Stir all ingredients with ice and strain into applewood smoked filled decanter.
• Step 3: Allow smoke flavor to infuse for a few seconds before pouring into an old fashioned glass with a large rock of ice.
• Step 4: Express an orange peel over the cocktail and enjoy.

4. Space Oddity

• .75 oz Blue Curaçao
• .5 oz fresh Lemon Juice
• 1 egg white
• 2 drops Orange Blossom Water
• 2 dashes Orange Bitters
• 3 drops Peychaud’s Bitters
• Step 1: Add all ingredients except for Peychaud’s bitters to a cocktail shaker without ice.
• Step 2: Strain into a chilled coupe.
• Step 3: Add 3 drops of Peychaud’s bitters and swirl with a toothpick.

5. Lost in Space Martini

• 4 oz of Orange Vodka
• 1 oz of Triple Sec
• 1 oz of tang powdered soft drink
• Step 1: Roll rim of glass in additional Tang sugar (optional).
• Step 2: Shake ingredients in a shaker with ice.
• Step 3: Strain and serve in cocktail glasses.

6. Space Gin Smash

• 6 Mint leaves
• 2 Seedless green grapes
• Green apple
• 33/100 oz Simple syrup
• 1 1/4 oz Tanqueray gin
• Garnish: apple slice fan
• Garnish: mint sprig
• Garnish: green grape

In a shaker, muddle the mint, lemon, grapes, apple, and simple syrup.

Add the gin and fill with ice.

Shake, and strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh cracked ice.

Garnish with an apple fan, a mint sprig, and a grape.

7. Galaxy Moscow Mule

• Ginger Beer
• Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
• Step 1: Make Butterfly Pea Flower Tea by putting the flowers into hot water until the water turns a dark blue/indigo color. You can purchase it on Amazon here
• Step 2: Pour said water into an ice cube tray until frozen
• Step 3: Crush the ice in a blender and pour into your cocktail glass
• Step 4: Add Vodka, Ginger Beer, and Lime Juice over the indigo-colored ice
• Step 5: Watch as your cocktail changes to colors of the galaxy