By: Jalyn Mayer, Photography by Kassandra Escamilla - October 31, 2019
There are plenty of options when it comes to Halloween parties and finding the perfect spot to show off your costume and maybe even win some cash or a prize if it’s clever enough. From seedy house parties, haunted houses, over crowded bars, overpriced nightclubs, street parties, balls and bashes happening on Halloween, The Big Magazine chose a haunted boo’s (booze) cruise to celebrate Halloween weekend.
Located aboard the gorgeous Royal Princess Yacht, the Newport Haunted Halloween cruise set sail on Saturday, October 26th, 2019. Though the luxury yacht is not actually haunted, the phantom ship delivered a spectacular mix of dancing, drinking, dining, and fun. Annual Yacht Parties have produced the Haunted Halloween charter since its inception in 2008. The AYP open air soiree includes an unlimited dinner buffet, full bar, and costume contest alongside breathtaking scenic views of the Newport Harbor.
There is a 7pm arrival time to onboard the ship. Parking will cost you $20 and the lot is spacious, just a short distance from the marina. Attendees all donned fabulous costumes, ranging from Rihanna’s 2018 Met Ball look to Wanda and Cosmo from The Fairly Odd Parents. The crowd was sprinkled with romantic couples and local party goers.
Aboard the haunted vessel, were two main levels and outdoor viewing areas with stunning 360° views of a glittering Newport at night from the top deck. They equip the first level with two full bars and a VIP area.
The interior of the yacht can get crowded so guests can expect to wait in line for drinks. The upper deck is the heart of the party and includes a large dance floor glowing with LED lights and dancing feet. There are two DJs spinning throughout the night. They were playing throwback hits like “Hot in Here” by Nelly and “Don’t Stop the Music” by Rihanna.
As the party vessel sailed on, costumed guests showed off their best moves while hoping to win a $500 cash prize. The night included an “all-you-can-eat buffet,” - taco bar. The tacos were street style with a choice of chicken or pork meat on a corn tortilla. The toppings were per the usual - lettuce, salsa, and cheese. The chicken was a bit too salty for my taste. I noticed many attendees skipped the food altogether. Not so surprising considering many guests aboard were seeking a good ol fashion Halloween booze cruise.
Annual Yacht Parties first began with their New Year’s yacht party out of the Newport Harbor. From there, the company continued to make waves by expanding the brand to different harbors and sea cruises with revolving themes throughout the year. Popular charters include: 4th of July, St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo, New Years and Halloween. Just one tip - be sure to bring a coat, the boat can get chilly at night!
The next party is the New Year’s Eve yacht party taking place in Marina Del Rey, San Diego, and Newport Beach. Tickets start at $125 + per person and have sold out for the past 16 years. Ages 21 and over.
For tickets and more information visit www.annualyachtparties