If your dream wedding involves salty ocean air, the gentle sway of the waves, and a champagne toast under the stars, then a boat wedding in Chile might just be your perfect match. Chile, with its stunning coastline, magical fjords, and serene lakes, offers some of the most breathtaking locations for a nautical ceremony.
But let’s be real—planning a wedding on a boat isn’t as simple as saying “I do” on solid ground. There are logistics, legalities, and yes, the ever-present threat of someone getting seasick. But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a fun, practical, and foolproof guide to making your boat wedding in Chile absolutely unforgettable.
Why Choose a Boat Wedding in Chile?
Before we dive into the planning, let’s talk about why Chile is such an epic destination for a boat wedding.
🚢 Diverse Locations – From the turquoise waters of Patagonia to the charming fishing villages of Chiloé, Chile offers a variety of unique wedding spots.
🌊 A True Adventure – Forget traditional venues; a boat wedding is for couples who crave something extraordinary.
📸 Breathtaking Views – Imagine exchanging vows with a backdrop of dramatic cliffs, mirror-like lakes, or a golden sunset over the Pacific.
🍷 Amazing Food & Wine – Chile is home to world-class seafood and wine—two essentials for an unforgettable wedding feast.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Boat
Your wedding vibe depends a lot on the type of boat you choose. Here are your main options:
- Luxury Yacht 🛥️ – Ideal for larger weddings with catering, music, and a dance floor. Check out Chile Charter for options.
- Sailboat ⛵ – Perfect for intimate elopements, with nothing but the wind, waves, and your love.
- Catamaran ⚓ – A great middle-ground option with plenty of space for guests but a relaxed atmosphere.
- Traditional Fishing Boat 🎣 – If you want something more rustic and unique (and love seafood), some fishing towns offer charming wooden boats for ceremonies.
💡 Pro Tip: Make sure to check the boat’s maximum capacity and whether it has restrooms. Trust me, your guests will thank you.
Step 2: Picking the Perfect Location
Chile’s geography is stunning, and there are plenty of amazing places to set sail for your wedding:
Chiloé Island 🏝️
This mystical island is known for its wooden churches, local legends, and incredible coastal views. It’s perfect for a wedding with cultural charm.
Chilean Fjords ❄️
If you’re dreaming of a remote, untouched landscape, consider a wedding cruise through the Chilean Fjords. Expect jaw-dropping glaciers and snow-capped mountains.
Valparaíso Bay 🎨
For a colorful, bohemian wedding, a boat ceremony in the artistic port city of Valparaíso is a dream. Plus, you can party all night in the city’s famous bars afterward!
Lake District 🌿
Prefer calm waters over ocean waves? The Lake District offers peaceful, picturesque settings with volcano views.
Step 3: Legal Requirements (a.k.a. the Not-So-Fun Part)
Nobody likes paperwork, but unless you want your wedding to be “symbolic” only, you’ll need to follow Chile’s marriage laws:
✅ At least one partner must be in Chile for 30 days before the wedding.
✅ You’ll need a civil ceremony performed by a local officiant (some captains can be authorized to officiate).
✅ All documents (birth certificates, passports) must be translated into Spanish and notarized.
✅ If you’re not a Chilean resident, you may need additional documentation from your home country.
💡 Pro Tip: Work with a local wedding planner or officiant to handle the legal details!
Step 4: Planning the Guest Experience
Guest List & Seating
Most boats have a limited capacity (usually 10-50 guests), so keep your wedding small and intimate. Also, consider whether you want assigned seating or a more casual layout.
Food & Drinks 🍷
Since you’re in Chile, why not embrace the local flavors? Serve fresh ceviche, grilled seafood, and, of course, Chilean wine. Just be mindful of heavy meals—nobody wants seasickness ruining the party!
Weather & Backup Plans
The ocean can be unpredictable, so consider:
- A backup venue on land in case of storms.
- A tented deck or indoor cabin if it gets windy.
- Providing motion sickness bands or pills for sensitive guests.
Step 5: Wedding Photography & Videography
Shooting on water presents unique challenges:
📸 Golden hour is your best friend – Sunset shots on the water? Yes, please.
📸 Keep movement in mind – A rocking boat = tricky lighting. Work with an experienced photographer.
📸 Drones are epic – Aerial shots over the ocean look incredible.
💡 Want a photographer who knows how to capture boat weddings? Check out my portfolio here!
Step 6: Nautical-Themed Decor & Details
A boat wedding already has a gorgeous backdrop, but a few stylish touches can elevate the atmosphere:
🎨 Color scheme – Stick to classic nautical colors (navy, white, and gold).
⚓ Decor accents – Use ropes, lanterns, and driftwood for a chic, maritime look.
💡 Lighting – String lights and candles create a magical evening glow.
Step 7: What to Wear (And What NOT to Wear!)
👗 For the bride – A flowy, lightweight dress is ideal (avoid long trains—they’ll get in the way).
👞 For the groom – Linen or lightweight suits are perfect for the ocean breeze.
👠 For guests – Let them know to skip high heels (deck + heels = disaster).
Final Tips for a Smooth Sail
✔️ Confirm boat availability & permits early.
✔️ Tell guests about dress code & seasickness prevention.
✔️ Prepare an emergency bag (motion sickness meds, extra towels, waterproof makeup).
✔️ Enjoy the ride!
Ready to Capture Your Love Story at Sea?
A boat wedding in Chile is an adventure of a lifetime, and every magical moment deserves to be beautifully documented. As a wedding photographer who specializes in capturing raw, authentic emotions, I’d love to be part of your journey!
📸 Check out my wedding photography packages here
💌 Let’s chat about your dream wedding here
Set sail, say “I do,” and let’s make your wedding unforgettable! 🚢💍✨
