Beach Barbecue Essentials for the Superyacht Chef

There’s nothing quite like a private beach barbecue. A beach barbecue isn’t just about the food — it’s about creating a memorable experience where you, the superyacht chef, can work your magic. Here’s my ultimate checklist to ensure you’re ready to wow your guests with an unforgettable beach barbecue.

The Equipment 

1.     Portable Grill

You’ll need a compact but robust grill. Look for a large grill area with foldable legs and wind protection. My preference leans towards something that gives me everything, like the old Sputnik style portable charcoal grill.  

2.     Coolers and Ice Packs

You’ll need a cooler for meats and seafood, another for fresh ingredients like salads, and one just for drinks. Pack them with ice packs instead of regular ice. 

3.     Weather-Proof Containers

Go for waterproof, airtight containers to transport seasonings, oils, sauces, and marinades. Capture a little air in ZipLock bags before sealing to prevent squishing during transit.            

4.     Cutlery and Serving Utensils

Bring a sharp chef’s knife, a slicing knife for larger cuts of meat, tongs, a fish spatula, and a carving fork. For serving, I recommend working with the chief stew to find out what large platters you have on board. I like to label each platter with what I will serve on it, then pack. 

Packing the Food: Tips to Streamline Prep 

1.     Marinade in Advance

Marinate the meats and seafood in vacuum-sealed bags to save space and keep flavors locked in. Try tropical flavors that bring out the local vibe — think jerk seasoning for chicken, lime and garlic for shrimp, or rum and honey for pork.

2.     Pre-Chop and Pre-Measure

Cut down on prep time by chopping vegetables and portioning out ingredients in advance. Bring dressings in separate containers and toss just before serving to keep salads fresh and crisp.

3.     Bring Extra Ice and Keep It Separate

Nothing dampens a beach barbecue quicker than lukewarm drinks. Bring extra ice for drinks and store separately from food. Ice for drinks and raw proteins should never be in the same bag. 

4.     Portable Spice Kit

Pack a small spice kit with essentials like sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne, and your favorite rubs. The right seasoning elevates everything, so don’t skimp on the flavors.

Making Your Beach Barbecue Memorable

1.     Freshly caught fish, tropical fruits, and spices like allspice and Scotch bonnet peppers give authenticity. Showcase what the region offers, and your guests will feel even more connected.
2.     Guests love a bit of hands-on fun. Set up a small DIY station where they can create their own tacos, add toppings to their salads, or build s’mores. Great if the deckie is shooting a charter video, too.
3.     Nothing catches the eye like a bit of showmanship. Grill fresh pineapples, sear some lobster tails, or flame up a few skewers with a finishing touch of Caribbean rum. Adding these little moments of drama enhances the sensory experience. 
4.     From my days in the military, be like Meal Team 6 and leave nothing behind but footprints in the sand. Pack everything and take it back to your yacht, including disposable items.

Creating the perfect beach barbecue for charter guests is about having the right gear, careful preparation, and adding touches that create an unforgettable experience. With a bit of planning and these chef-approved tricks, you’re sure to deliver a feast that captures the essence of a beach barbecue. Happy grilling!‘

For more information on courses for chefs, check out my YouTube channel “Behind the Line with Chef Danny Davies” or Instagram @futurechefproject.

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