Sail Away With Me

It is a well known fact that Seattle is a port city—anywhere you go in the surrounding area there will be water! However, with the more mild temperatures and less than ideal beaches, it can be hard to enjoy the waterfront in a real hands-on manner; wakeboarding and boating are so seasonal! Plus, not everyone has access to a boat or other recreational water equipment. However, lucky for you and your sweetheart, we have overcome this with an idea for you that can get you out on the water and having fun together!

The University of Washington is host to many recreational sports programs including waterfront activities. Through this Waterfront Activities Center, row boats and canoes are available for rental to the general public. Rentals are only $8.50 per hour on weekdays, and $10 on weekends (unless you are a UW student, faculty, or alumni—then it’s even cheaper). Cruise around on Union Bay and the Montlake Cut and you will soon realize that when out in the middle of the water on a boat with your partner, the rest of the world seems to disappear. If you get tired—no big deal, just pause for some great conversation in an out-of-ordinary setting that can be both playful and uninhibited.

Ladies: let’s give you a sailor-girl inspired outfit for this date! We’re not exactly thinking J Crew, white, or sundresses—you need something a little more sporty since you will be sitting in a small boat. The sun will feel great on your legs so show them off with a nice pair of high waist shorts. This style is a hot look right now, and they tend to be a bit looser and longer in the leg which will be comfortable and flattering when sitting in the boat. Layer up on top—as you work to row you might get warm, but being out on the water means you will usually encounter a breeze. The nautical stripe sweater is a great choice paired with some coordinating basics. Navy and black together? Yes. The red and white help balance it out and give it that sailor-esque quality. Notice for the shoes you have two options—try a preppy pair of Keds or any white sneakers while you are actually in the boat. The wedges are more suitable for turning this look into a dressier evening combination for a waterfront dinner or stroll. Don’t forget the sunglasses and sunscreen—the bright sunlight reflecting off the water can be your enemy if not prepared!

Men: begin your look with a linen button-down. It can be worn open over a graphic, patterned, or plain t-shirt, or also buttoned up. Roll the sleeves up for a casual look. Linen is lightweight and comfortable yet also provides coverage so it’s a great fabric to wear when outdoors. As for the bottom half, add a little variety by straying away from the jeans. The occasion doesn’t exactly call for slacks, either, but something a little more lightweight and loose-fitting would be good. The model shown below has a nice pair of easily cuff-able pants that would work great—cargo shorts are a great alternative as well. Shoe options can consist of anything from flip flops to a preppy sneaker—use your best judgment here! Like your lady, don’t forget to bring along your shades and some sunscreen, maybe even a hat if it is going to be a bright, sunny day out there!