As the summer sun dips lower in the sky and crisp autumn air replaces the smouldering heat, boating takes on a new charm in this season. The changing colours of the leaves reflected on the water create a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing day cruising or a thrilling fishing adventure on your Stabicraft boat. But along with the shift in season comes the need to adjust your boating essentials, including the food and drinks you pack.

Here's a guide to help you plan delicious and satisfying meals and beverages for your fall boating adventures and all the boat supplies for food storage you need to bring:

Food to Bring

Warm and Comforting Dishes: Fall is the time for indulging in warm and comforting dishes. Pack a hearty stew, chili, or thick soup in a thermos to keep it hot throughout the day. Consider options like chunky vegetable stew, slow cooker chili with cornbread, or creamy potato chowder. Pre-portioning these dishes into individual containers makes grabbing lunch on the go easy.

Savoury Sandwiches and Wraps: Sandwiches and wraps are classic boat food for a reason – they're easy to prepare, portable, and satisfying. Think beyond the standard ham and cheese. Opt for options like roasted turkey with cranberry mayo on whole-wheat bread, grilled chicken Caesar wraps, or hummus and veggie wraps. These provide protein and complex carbohydrates to keep your energy levels up.

Flavorful Salads with a Fall Twist: Salads are a great way to incorporate fresh flavours and essential vitamins into your boat menu. Instead of a summery salad, opt for a fall harvest salad with roasted butternut squash, apples, and a maple vinaigrette. Quinoa or brown rice salad with chopped vegetables and a light lemon dressing is another healthy option.

Energy Snack Bars: Pack homemade energy balls with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and honey for a quick and healthy pick-me-up between meals. Granola bars, protein bars, and trail mix are also great options to keep your energy levels stable.

Baked Goods: Homemade muffins, scones, or quick breads are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Opt for pumpkin spice muffins, cranberry orange scones, or banana nut bread to embrace the fall flavours.

Cheese and Crackers: A simple yet satisfying option is a cheese and cracker platter. Choose a variety of cheeses like cheddar, brie, and goat cheese, along with whole-wheat crackers, sliced apples, and grapes for a balanced and delicious snack.

Fall-Themed Desserts: Pack cookies, brownies, or slices of pumpkin pie for a sweet treat to end your perfect fall boating adventure.

Beverages to Bring

Don’t Forget to Bring Water At All Times: No matter the season, staying hydrated is crucial. Pack plenty of bottled water for everyone on board. Adding a squeeze of lemon or slices of cucumber can add a refreshing twist.

Hot Beverages for Chilly Mornings: As the mornings get cooler, pack a thermos filled with hot coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Spiced apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte are perfect ways to embrace the fall flavours and stay warm.

Non-Caffeinated Options: For those who prefer non-caffeinated drinks, pack thermoses filled with hot apple juice, cranberry juice or herbal tea. These will keep you warm and hydrated throughout the day.

Packing Tips for Fall Boating

Pre Portioning: Separate food into individual containers for easy access and portion control.

Cooler Management: Pack your cooler with ice or ice packs to keep perishables cold. Place drinks at the bottom and food items on top, ensuring everything stays chilled. Make sure your cooler won’t block the deck space on your boat. Avoid placing it near the engine; instead, place it under the boat’s canopy or inside the cabin.  

Reusable Containers: Ditch disposable plates and utensils. Opt for reusable containers and insulated bottles to reduce waste and keep food and drinks at the desired temperature.

Spills Happen: Pack a roll of paper towels and a few wet wipes for easy cleanup of spills.