37 Best Songs for Boat Parties

Welcome, aspiring DJs, to another exciting edition of our blog! Today, we’re diving into the world of boat parties and exploring the tunes that will make waves at your next nautical event. Whether you’re a seasoned DJ or just starting out, curating the perfect playlist for a boat party can be a thrilling challenge. The open water, sunshine, and fresh breeze set the stage for unforgettable memories, and your track selection can make all the difference.

In this post, we’ll be sharing our top picks for the best boat party songs, ranging from timeless classics to modern hits, and spanning various genres to ensure there’s something for everyone. We’ll also offer some tips and tricks on how to read your crowd and keep the energy flowing, so your audience stays entertained from the moment they step aboard until they disembark. So, grab your headphones, and let’s set sail on this musical adventure!

1. “I’m On a Boat” by The Lonely Island ft. T-PainA humorous, tongue-in-cheek tune by comedy trio The Lonely Island, featuring T-Pain. The song parodies hip hop excess and the luxurious boat party lifestyle.The Lonely Island is a comedy group formed by Andy Samberg, Akiva Schaffer, and Jorma Taccone. They are known for their SNL digital shorts and comedic music.
2. “Kokomo” by The Beach BoysA feel-good song about a fictional tropical paradise. This classic hit captures the essence of relaxation and escape, perfect for a boat party.The Beach Boys are an iconic American rock band, known for their harmonies and surf music. They formed in 1961 and are led by founding member Brian Wilson.
3. “Boats ‘N Hoes” by Step Brothers (Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly)A hilarious and catchy song from the 2008 film “Step Brothers,” featuring Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly. The song’s absurd lyrics and energetic delivery make it a great boat party track.Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly are both accomplished actors and comedians, known for their chemistry

4. “Red Red Wine” by UB40A smooth reggae cover of Neil Diamond’s classic, “Red Red Wine” by UB40 brings a laid-back, island vibe to any boat party.UB40 is a British reggae and pop band formed in 1978, known for their covers and original tracks that blend reggae, dub, and pop influences.
5. “One Love” by Bob Marley & The WailersThis timeless anthem of unity and love by Bob Marley & The Wailers brings an uplifting, Caribbean feel to any gathering.Bob Marley was a Jamaican singer-songwriter and musician who became an international symbol for reggae music and the Rastafari movement.
6. “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” by Rupert HolmesA catchy, narrative-driven song about a couple rediscovering their love, “Escape” is a lighthearted addition to any boat party playlist.Rupert Holmes is a British-American composer, singer-songwriter, and playwright best known for this 1979 hit.
7. “Margaritaville” by Jimmy BuffettAn ode to laid-back living and tropical cocktails, “Margaritaville” is a must-play track for a boat party with a beachy vibe. Jimmy Buffett is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and entrepreneur known for his “island escapism” lifestyle and music, which has earned him a dedicated following of fans called “Parrotheads.”

8. “Cake by the Ocean” by DNCEAn infectious pop-rock tune, “Cake by the Ocean” by DNCE is a catchy and fun song that will keep the boat party energy high.DNCE is an American pop-rock band formed in 2015, led by Joe Jonas, formerly of the Jonas Brothers.
9. “Under the Sea” by Samuel E. WrightA lively, feel-good song from Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” “Under the Sea” is a whimsical and playful addition to any boat party.Samuel E. Wright was an American actor and singer best known for voicing the character Sebastian in “The Little Mermaid.”
10. “Hot in Herre” by Nelly A steamy, upbeat hip-hop track, “Hot in Herre” by Nelly is sure to heat things up on the dance floor. Nelly is an American rapper, singer, and entrepreneur who gained fame in the early 2000s with hits like “Country Grammar” and “Ride wit Me.”

11. “Wipe Out” by The Surfaris An iconic surf rock instrumental, “Wipe Out” by The Surfaris brings a classic beach party vibe to your boat party. The Surfaris are an American surf rock band formed in 1962, known for their upbeat instrumentals and surf-inspired sound.
12. “Sailing” by Christopher Cross A mellow, soft rock ballad, “Sailing” by Christopher Cross captures the serene feeling of being out on the water. Christopher Cross is an American singer-songwriter and musician who gained fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s with hits like “Ride Like the Wind” and “Arthur’s Theme.”
13. “Island in the Sun” by Weezer An indie rock anthem with a catchy, sun-soaked melody, “Island in the Sun” by Weezer is a great track for creating a relaxed boat party atmosphere. Weezer is an American rock band formed in 1992, known for their catchy, power-pop sound and quirky lyrics.
14. “La Isla Bonita” by Madonna A Latin-inspired pop song, “La Isla Bonita” by Madonna transports listeners to a beautiful island paradise and adds a touch of sultriness to your boat party playlist. Madonna is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur, known as the “Queen of Pop” for her ground-breaking music and fashion throughout her career.

15. “Surfin’ USA” by The Beach Boys A high-energy surf rock classic, “Surfin’ USA” by The Beach Boys is the perfect soundtrack for catching waves or dancing on a boat deck. The Beach Boys are an iconic American rock band, known for their harmonies and surf music, as previously mentioned in this list.

16. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley & The Wailers With its positive message and reggae rhythm, “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley & The Wailers is a feel-good addition to any boat party playlist. Bob Marley & The Wailers were a Jamaican reggae band led by the legendary Bob Marley, as mentioned earlier in this list.

17. “Dancing in the Moonlight” by Toploader An upbeat, catchy cover of King Harvest’s original, “Dancing in the Moonlight” by Toploader is a perfect song for a moonlit boat party. Toploader is a British alternative rock band formed in 1997, known for their energetic live performances and memorable covers.

18. “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” by Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett A fun, lighthearted country tune, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” is the perfect anthem for anyone ready to kick back and enjoy a boat party. Alan Jackson is an American country music singer-songwriter, while Jimmy Buffett is an American singer-songwriter known for his beachy tunes, as mentioned earlier in this list.

19. “Summertime” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince A laid-back hip-hop track with nostalgic lyrics, “Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince evokes memories of warm, sunny days and is a great addition to a boat party playlist. DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince were a hip-hop duo consisting of DJ Jazzy Jeff (Jeffrey Townes) and The Fresh Prince (Will Smith), who gained fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

20. “Soak Up the Sun” by Sheryl Crow A feel-good pop-rock song, “Soak Up the Sun” by Sheryl Crow encourages listeners to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, making it a perfect boat party track. Sheryl Crow is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for her versatile sound and numerous hits since the early 1990s.

21. “Cruisin'” by Smokey Robinson A smooth, romantic R&B ballad, “Cruisin'” by Smokey Robinson sets the mood for a relaxing boat ride with someone special. Smokey Robinson is an American singer-songwriter and record producer, known for his work with Motown Records and his distinctive, emotive voice.
22. “Pumped Up Kicks” by Foster the People An indie-pop track with an infectious beat, “Pumped Up Kicks” by Foster the People is a catchy tune that will keep your boat party guests dancing. Foster the People is an American indie-pop band formed in 2009, known for their energetic sound and memorable hooks.
23. “Miami” by Will Smith A party anthem that celebrates the city of Miami, “Miami” by Will Smith brings a fun, tropical vibe to any boat party. Will Smith is an American actor, rapper, and producer, known for his versatile career spanning music, television, and film.
24. “Boat Drinks” by Jimmy Buffett A lighthearted song about escaping the cold for warmer climates, “Boat Drinks” by Jimmy Buffett adds a touch of humor to your boat party playlist. Jimmy Buffett has already been mentioned earlier in this list for his beachy tunes and “island escapism” music.

25. “Rock the Boat” by Hues Corporation A classic disco track, “Rock the Boat” by Hues Corporation will have your boat party guests grooving to the beat on the dance floor. Hues Corporation was an American pop and soul trio, best known for their 1974 hit “Rock the Boat,” which is considered one of the first disco songs.

26. “Come Sail Away” by Styx

An epic rock ballad with soaring vocals and powerful instrumentation, “Come Sail Away” by Styx brings a touch of drama to your boat party.

Styx is an American rock band formed in 1972, known for their blend of hard rock, progressive rock, and pop influences.

27. “Sea Legs” by The Shins An indie rock tune with a nautical theme, “Sea Legs” by The Shins adds a touch of quirkiness to any boat party playlist. The Shins is an American indie rock band formed in 1996, known for their melodic songwriting and unique sound.

28. “Beyond the Sea” by Bobby Darin A classic swing tune that evokes images of the ocean, “Beyond the Sea” by Bobby Darin brings a touch of elegance and nostalgia to your boat party. Bobby Darin was an American singer, songwriter, and actor known for his versatile talent and numerous hits in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

29. “Barbados” by Typically Tropical A catchy, calypso-infused pop song, “Barbados” by Typically Tropical transports listeners to the Caribbean and adds a fun, tropical vibe to your boat party. Typically Tropical was a British musical duo that scored a one-hit wonder with “Barbados” in 1975.
30. “Banana Pancakes ” by Jack Johnson A laid-back, acoustic tune, “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson is perfect for setting a relaxed atmosphere at your boat party.Jack Johnson is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for his soothing, acoustic sound and environmentally-conscious lifestyle.
31. “In the Summertime” by Mungo Jerry A feel-good, carefree tune with a catchy melody, “In the Summertime” by Mungo Jerry is an ideal track for a sunny boat party. Mungo Jerry is a British rock band formed in 1970, best known for their global hit “In the Summertime.”
32. “Toes” by Zac Brown Band A country song with a beachy vibe, “Toes” by Zac Brown Band is a fun, laid-back track for any boat party. Zac Brown Band is an American country music group led by singer-songwriter Zac Brown, known for their blend of country, folk, and Southern rock influences.
33. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves An infectious, upbeat pop-rock tune, “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves is guaranteed to bring a smile to your boat party guests’ faces. Katrina and the Waves were a British-American rock band best known for this 1985 hit.
34. “Summer Breeze” by Seals and Crofts A soft rock classic with a laid-back melody, “Summer Breeze” by Seals and Crofts captures the feeling of a warm summer evening on the water. Seals and Crofts were an American soft rock duo consisting of Jim Seals and Dash Crofts, known for their melodic hits in the 1970s.
35. “Son of a Sailor” by Jimmy Buffett A storytelling song that celebrates the life of a sailor, “Son of a Sailor” by Jimmy Buffett is a fitting track for your boat party playlist. Jimmy Buffett has been mentioned earlier in this list for his beachy tunes and “island escapism” music.
36. “Smooth” by Santana ft. Rob Thomas A sultry, Latin-infused rock song, “Smooth” by Santana featuring Rob Thomas is a crowd-pleaser that will keep your boat party guests dancing. Santana is a Latin rock band led by legendary guitarist Carlos Santana, known for their fusion of rock, Latin, and jazz elements. Rob Thomas is the lead singer of American rock band Matchbox Twenty.
37. “Sail Away” by David Gray A heartfelt, introspective ballad, “Sail Away” by David Gray adds a touch of emotional depth to your boat party playlist. David Gray is a British singer-songwriter known for his emotive vocals and poetic lyrics, gaining widespread acclaim in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Here are some fun facts about a few of the boat party songs mentioned above:

1. “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys
   • “Kokomo” is not a real island, but rather an invented paradise inspired by various Caribbean locations. The song’s title was inspired by a cocktail made with coconut rum.
2. “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes
   • Rupert Holmes didn’t like the taste of piña coladas, and when he wrote the song, he had never actually tried one.
3. “Boat Drinks” by Jimmy Buffett
   • “Boat Drinks” was inspired by a cold winter in Boston, when Jimmy Buffett was staying at the Lenox Hotel and dreaming of warmer climates.
4. “Cake by the Ocean” by DNCE
   • The song’s title was inspired by a miscommunication between the band and Swedish producers, who were trying to say “sex on the beach” (a cocktail) but ended up saying “cake by the ocean” instead.
5. “Under the Sea” by Samuel E. Wright
   • “Under the Sea” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1989 and has been covered by numerous artists in various languages.
6. “Come Sail Away” by Styx
   • The song was written by Styx’s lead singer Dennis DeYoung, who was inspired by a childhood memory of watching sailboats on Lake Michigan.
7. Smooth” by Santana ft. Rob Thomas “Smooth” is the result of a collaboration between Carlos Santana and Matchbox Twenty’s Rob Thomas. The song won three Grammy Awards in 2000, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
8. “Sailing” by Christopher Cross
   • “Sailing” was Christopher Cross’s first big hit and won him a Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 1981. It is often considered one of the greatest soft rock songs of all time.
9. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves
   • “Walking on Sunshine” was initially released in 1983 but didn’t achieve commercial success until it was re-released in 1985. The song has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials.

11. “Dancing in the Moonlight” by Toploader

• Toploader’s version of “Dancing in the Moonlight” is actually a cover of the original song by King Harvest, which was released in 1972. The Toploader cover became more popular than the original, especially in the UK, where it reached number 7 on the UK Singles Chart.

12. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley & The Wailers

• Contrary to popular belief, the “three little birds” in the song are not specifically about birds. Bob Marley’s inspiration for the song came from a simple yet powerful message of hope and positivity.

13. “Pumped Up Kicks” by Foster the People

• “Pumped Up Kicks” was written and recorded by Mark Foster in just five hours. The song became an unexpected hit, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

14. “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson

• Jack Johnson wrote “Banana Pancakes” as a love song for his wife, Kim. The song was inspired by a rainy day spent indoors, making pancakes and enjoying each other’s company.

And there you have it, our comprehensive guide to the best boat party songs to get your crowd dancing, singing, and enjoying the open water. As you venture into the world of DJing boat parties, remember that the key to success lies in reading your audience, adapting your playlist on the fly, and creating a unique experience that keeps everyone engaged and entertained.

We hope you’ve found our recommendations and tips useful as you navigate the exciting waters of boat party DJing. Keep experimenting, refining your skills, and most importantly, have fun with it. After all, music is a universal language that brings people together, and your role as a DJ is to create memorable moments for your audience.

So, aspiring DJs, it’s time to hoist the sails, fire up your decks, and let the power of music guide you through your next boat party adventure. May the wind be at your back, and the tunes be ever in your favor. Until next time, happy spinning, and smooth sailing!

Thanks for reading.

Tbone