A day on a boat can do wonders for the soul. Take it from someone who spent all summer driving them on the crystal coast of North Carolina. During the two months that I operated a boat everyday, I was able to narrow down the top seven foods that would make for a great day on the water.
7. Salads
Not only do salads have the magical power of making us feel unbelievably healthy, they’re also 96% water. This is essential because nothing ruins a day on a boat faster than dehydration. You can add chicken, dried fruit, and nuts as well to really boost your salads taste and benefits.
6. Eggs and Toast
Mom always says, “The key to a great day is a great breakfast,” and this sure does apply for a day out on the water. Having an egg with a side of toast will keep your energy up all morning and eggs have the added benefit of improving your eye sight because they are high in vitamin A.
5. Smoothies
I love a good smoothie, preferably one with bananas and peanut butter. Having a smoothie before you go out on a boat will have you feeling healthy (a reassuring theme here) and full. However, I highly recommend having something else with your smoothie (like eggs and toast) before your day.
4. Fruit Salad
Really any kind of fruit will do here — preferably fruit with high levels of water. Watermelon and grapes are especially good for this. It’s important to remember that if you’re going to bring fruit on your boat, keep it in a cooler so the heat doesn’t get to it before you do!
3. Protein Bar
It’s imperative that you don’t, I repeat, DO NOT eat a protein bar that’s super high in fiber. Fiber acts as a natural laxative and will have you feeling like you have to go to the bathroom the entire time you’re on the boat. Talk about worst case scenario. Fiber aside, a protein bar that contains mostly carbs is a quick and easy way to fuel up before a day on the water.
2. Veggie Wraps
A very close second to the list’s number one, and the only real difference is what you personally are in the mood for. Unless you live under a rock, you know that vegetables are so, so good for you. When combining them with sauces and a thin tortilla wrap, you just can’t go wrong and your body will thank you.
1. Meat Sandwiches
Nothing beats a good ol’ fashioned sandwich. Even something as simple as a turkey and cheese sandwich will keep you full and ready to go all day long. Add-ons like lettuce, vegetables, and sauce not only improve the taste but the overall benefits of your meal. These benefits include low blood pressure and increased alertness.
Great food + boat + sun = happiness. The only thing that can make a day out on the water even better is with great food.