There are few things in life that are as relaxing on the sunny-side of a boat while you drift down the narrow canals of Back Bay listening to Jimmy Buffet or Alan Jackson with a cold drink in hand. Scratch that – anything but Jimmy Buffet…. and definitely no Alan Jackson…. or anything country.

Granted, there are dozens of lists saying otherwise. Great American Country lists Buffet’s “A Pirate Looks at 40” as their number one boating song. Boating Magazine even has the Margaritaville Mister three times with their list. A trifecta of Jimmy Buffet, Christopher Cross, and Kenny Chesney can all be found on Discover Boating’s list. So if you are interested in the traditional yacht-rock lists, check any of these out. But, if you are looking to mix it up a little and try something new, check out our alternative to the dozens of lists all harmonizing about our favorite nautical pastime.

 

“Boats & Birds” by Gregory & the Hawk

 

“Boat Behind” by Kings of Convenience

 

“Ocean Breathes Salty” by Modest Mouse

 

“Grown Ocean” by Fleet Foxes

 

“Yellow Submarine” by The Beatles

 

“Sail Away” by David Gray

 

“Banana Boat Song (Day-O)” (Beetlejuice Version) by Harry Belafonte

 

“If I Had A Boat” by Lyle Lovett

 

“A Satellite, Stars and an Ocean Behind You” by The Submarines

 

“Proud Mary” by Ike & Tina Turner

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzQnPz6TpGc

 

“Missed the Boat” by Modest Mouse

 

“Vacation” by The Go-Gos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_iVlhcF_NA