There’s nothing quite like the sound of rain pattering gently on the deck… unless, of course, you have guests on and were planning a beach barbecue, a jetski session, or a tender trip to a private cove.

We’ve all been there. One moment you’re prepping for lunch on the aft deck, the next you’re calmly announcing that the plans have changed and the “rainy day plan” is in motion. But these situations can actually be a chance to surprise your guests with experiences they didn’t know they needed.

So, if the clouds roll in, don’t panic. Here are some ways to turn a rained-off itinerary into a masterclass in next-level, luxury interior service.

Tasting experiences for a touch of theatre

Rainy weather is the perfect excuse for a little on-board indulgence. Why not collaborate with the chef to run a wine tasting or mini culinary workshop? Think olive oil or chocolate tastings with tasting cards and pairing notes, or a tea ceremony using beautiful regional blends, served in delicate glassware or ceramic cups.

If you can, have everything arranged beforehand, printed menus, little themed place cards, a soft background music playlist, all ready to go in case of bad weather.

Spa moments (without needing a spa)

For guests who love pampering, rainy days are a great time to offer a spa-inspired moment. Turn a guest cabin into a private oasis with warmed towels, chilled eye masks, a jade roller, and a calming playlist. Or set up a communal “wellness hour” in the salon, complete with sheet masks, herbal teas, and infused water in pretty glass carafes.

Call it a “Rainy Day Reset” and frame it as something special. Often, it’s the exact downtime guests didn’t realise they needed.

Bring the cinema on board

Sure, you could just pop on a film, but why not go the extra mile and turn it into a proper movie night? Choose a theme (classic Bond? French Riviera romance?), perhaps print out film menus or mock tickets. If your guests like cocktails or mocktails, create a bespoke drink to match the film’s setting. 

Dim the lights, hand out cosy blankets and gourmet popcorn and you’ve got an experience that feels glamorous, not improvised.

When in doubt, break out the board games

If your guests are social or have a competitive streak, suggest a friendly game tournament. Backgammon, poker, even team-based games like Articulate or Code Names can be a hit when styled the right way. Offer small prizes, keep the snacks and drinks flowing, and keep everything tidy and elegant with trays and cards presented beautifully.

It’s fun, it’s interactive, and it can be surprisingly memorable, especially with the right energy.

Something creative (that isn’t childish)

For the right charter group, setting up a small creative corner can be a real win. Watercolour kits with sea-inspired prompts, sketch pads and pencils, or even bracelet making and essential oil blending can be a lovely way to while away an hour or two.

The key here is to keep it elegant, beautiful materials, stylish aprons, and soft music can make it feel like a mindful escape, not a rainy-day craft session.

A proper afternoon tea party

If the day calls for full indulgence, serve up a high tea. Think mini scones with clotted cream, delicate finger sandwiches, patisserie treats, and a range of loose-leaf teas — or a glass of bubbly, if guests are in the mood.

Set the table beautifully, add floral touches, and pop on some light classical or vintage jazz. It’s a little bit of London in the Med, and always goes down well.

When the weather turns, it’s easy to feel like you’re scrambling to salvage the guest experience. But with a little forethought and creative flair, you can turn a rainy day into one of the most surprisingly luxurious moments of the entire trip.

Because real five-star service isn’t just about sunny days, it’s about knowing how to bring the magic, whatever the weather.