20 Nautical-Inspired Wedding Themes That Feel Classy

Ahoy, lovebirds! If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s equal parts elegant and adventurous, a nautical-inspired theme might just be your perfect match. Picture this: crisp navy blues, breezy whites, and just the right amount of seaside charm—without the sand in your shoes (unless you’re into that, of course). Whether you’re a beach bum at heart or just love the timeless sophistication of maritime style, these 22 nautical wedding ideas will have you saying “I do” to the trend faster than you can say “anchors aweigh.”

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But won’t a nautical theme feel cheesy?” Not if you do it right! The key is to keep it classy—think less “overboard pirate decor” and more “luxe yacht club vibes.” Trust me, I’ve seen my fair share of weddings where the theme drowned in tacky props (pun intended), but when done with intention, nautical can be downright breathtaking. Ready to dive in? Let’s set sail!

1. Classic Navy and White Elegance

You can’t go wrong with the timeless combo of navy and white. It’s crisp, sophisticated, and screams “I belong on a yacht in the Mediterranean.” Use navy table linens with white china, or flip it with white linens and navy accents for a fresh look. Add gold or brass details for a touch of luxury—think candle holders, flatware, or even your invitation suite.

Pro tip: Mix in textures like linen and silk to keep things interesting. And if you’re worried about it feeling too stiff, soften the look with lush greenery or blush peonies. Who says nautical can’t be romantic?

A long wedding reception table draped in crisp white linen, with navy blue napkins folded neatly atop gold-rimmed plates. Gold candle holders with tapered white candles glow softly, surrounded by lush green eucalyptus garlands and blush peonies. The backdrop is a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking a serene ocean view.

2. Rope and Nautical Knot Details

Rope might sound like something you’d find in a hardware store, but hear me out—when used thoughtfully, it adds the perfect maritime touch without going overboard (last boat pun, I swear). Use thick, braided rope as table runners, wrap it around bouquets, or even incorporate it into your ceremony arch. Nautical knots, like the classic sailor’s knot, make for adorable place card holders or even wedding favors.

I once attended a wedding where the couple used rope to create a “tying the knot” ceremony—literally. They braided three strands together during their vows, and it was *chef’s kiss* symbolic and stylish.

A close-up of a wooden wedding arch wrapped in thick, natural-toned rope, with delicate white flowers woven throughout. The rope extends to the ground, where it’s tied into an intricate sailor’s knot. Soft sunlight filters through the arch, casting a warm glow on the beach below.

3. Stripes for Days

Stripes are the unofficial uniform of nautical chic, and they’re surprisingly versatile. Go bold with wide navy and white stripes on tablecloths or chair cushions, or keep it subtle with striped ribbon on your invitations or bridesmaids’ dresses. Even your groom’s socks or pocket square can nod to the theme without screaming “I’m a sailor.”

Just avoid going full-on “Where’s Waldo?”—balance is key. Pair stripes with solid colors or soft textures to keep the look refined.

A stylish groom in a classic navy suit, with a crisp white shirt and a thin striped pocket square peeking out. Behind him, bridesmaids in flowing white dresses hold bouquets wrapped in navy-and-white striped ribbon, standing against a backdrop of a wooden dock and calm blue water.

4. Driftwood Centerpieces

Driftwood brings that organic, beachy vibe without feeling too “sandcastle contest.” Use pieces of weathered driftwood as table runners, or stack them vertically with candles or flowers for a stunning centerpiece. Bonus points if you can find pieces with natural curves—they add movement and interest to your tablescape.

FYI, if you’re not near a beach, Etsy has some amazing faux driftwood that looks legit. No one will know the difference, and you won’t have to lug soggy wood home from your last seaside vacation.

A rustic-chic dining table with a long, twisted piece of driftwood as the centerpiece. Small glass votives filled with white candles are nestled among the wood, alongside clusters of white hydrangeas and seashells. The table is set with simple white plates and navy cloth napkins.

5. Nautical-Inspired Stationery

Your wedding invitations set the tone for the whole event, so why not let them hint at your nautical theme from the get-go? Think navy blue envelopes, wax seals with anchor motifs, or even a subtle wave pattern in the background. For a playful touch, add a tiny sailboat or compass design to your RSVP cards.

I’m a sucker for details like this—it’s those little “aha” moments that make a wedding feel cohesive and personal. Plus, your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness (and the Instagram-worthy mail they get to open).

A flat lay of nautical-themed wedding stationery, featuring a navy blue invitation with gold foil anchor detailing. Next to it, a wax-sealed envelope with a rope-and-anchor design sits atop a piece of weathered parchment. A small compass and a sprig of dried lavender complete the scene.

6. Lanterns and Candlelight

There’s something undeniably magical about lanterns—they’re like tiny beacons of cozy, romantic light. Use them to line your ceremony aisle, hang them from trees at an outdoor reception, or cluster them on tables with candles inside. Go for classic brass lanterns for a vintage feel, or opt for sleek black ones for a modern twist.

Pro tip: If you’re outdoors, make sure they’re weighted or secured. Nothing kills the vibe faster than a rogue lantern blowing into the ocean (unless you’re going for a “message in a bottle” theme, I guess).

A row of brass lanterns hanging from shepherd’s hooks along a sandy beach ceremony aisle. Each lantern glows with a flickering candle inside, casting warm light on the white rose petals scattered below. The sun sets in the background, painting the sky in shades of pink and gold.

7. Sailcloth Tent Reception

If you’re going all-in on the nautical vibe, a sailcloth tent is the ultimate flex. These billowy, elegant tents mimic the sails of a ship and create a dreamy, airy atmosphere. Pair them with twinkling string lights, flowing drapes, and long farm tables for a reception that feels straight out of a coastal fairy tale.

Yes, they’re a splurge, but IMO, they’re worth it. Just imagine dancing under those sails as the sun dips below the horizon—pure magic.

A breathtaking sailcloth tent reception at dusk, with the fabric billowing gently in the ocean breeze. Inside, long wooden tables are adorned with white linens, blue glassware, and flickering candles. String lights crisscross overhead, illuminating the space with a soft, golden glow.

8. Anchor Accents

Anchors are the quintessential nautical symbol, but let’s use them sparingly, okay? A tiny anchor charm on your bouquet wrap or a subtle anchor embroidery on your groom’s handkerchief is chic. A giant anchor prop at the altar? Maybe not so much.

For a fun touch, incorporate anchor motifs into your cake design or even your wedding bands. Just remember: less is more unless you’re actually marrying a sailor (in which case, go wild).

A delicate white wedding cake with subtle nautical details—a thin navy blue ribbon around each tier, topped with a small gold anchor cake topper. Next to it, a pair of champagne flutes with anchor-shaped stems sit on a slate gray table, surrounded by scattered white petals.

9. Nautical Maps as Decor

Old-school nautical maps are equal parts vintage and adventurous—perfect for adding a touch of wanderlust to your wedding. Use them as table runners, frame them as signage (think: “Bar” or “Guest Book”), or even incorporate them into your centerpieces. For a personal twist, choose a map of a location that’s special to you, like where you got engaged or your honeymoon destination.

I once saw a couple use a map as their guest book, with guests signing near their hometowns. Such a clever way to make it interactive and meaningful!

A vintage nautical map spread across a wooden table as a runner, with a glass cloche holding a small compass placed in the center. Around it, mismatched blue and white china plates are set for dinner, and a sprig of fresh rosemary adds a pop of green.

10. Seashell Escort Cards

Seashells are a no-brainer for a nautical wedding, but let’s elevate them beyond the craft store bin. Use large, elegant shells (like scallops or conchs) as escort cards by writing guests’ names and table numbers in gold calligraphy. Or, for a more subtle approach, place small shells atop each napkin with a name tag tucked inside.

Just avoid the tiny, broken shells—they’re cute in theory but end up getting everywhere (and no one wants to find them in their bra later).

A wooden tray filled with large, pearlescent scallop shells, each bearing a guest’s name and table number written in elegant gold script. The shells are arranged on a bed of coarse sand, with a few pieces of sea glass scattered around for color.

11. Blue and White China Patterns

Channel coastal grandmother vibes with classic blue-and-white china. Mix and match patterns for a collected, eclectic look, or keep it uniform for a more formal feel. Use them for your dinner service, cake stands, or even as part of your centerpieces (a small plate propped up behind flowers adds instant charm).

Thrift stores and estate sales are goldmines for this kind of thing—just make sure you have enough matching pieces for your guest count. Or, you know, embrace the mismatched life like the rest of us.

A beautifully set table with mismatched blue-and-white china plates, each featuring a different intricate pattern. Gold flatware and navy cloth napkins complete the place settings, while a low centerpiece of white roses and eucalyptus ties the look together.

12. Rope-Wrapped Bottle Vases

Upcycle glass bottles into charming vases by wrapping their necks with rope—it’s eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and downright adorable. Use them for single stems on guest tables or cluster them at varying heights for a dynamic centerpiece. Clear bottles keep it modern, while blue or green glass adds a vintage touch.

This is also a great DIY project if you’re into that sort of thing (or if you’ve enlisted your crafty aunt to help—bless her).

A collection of clear glass bottles with rope-wrapped necks, each holding a single white hydrangea bloom. The bottles are grouped on a weathered wooden table, with a few strands of twine and a handful of seashells scattered around them.

13. Nautical Flags as Bunting

International maritime signal flags aren’t just for ships—they make colorful, playful bunting for your wedding decor. Spell out your initials, your wedding date, or just go for a random mix of patterns for a festive vibe. Hang them above your dance floor, along the bar, or even behind your sweetheart table.

Fair warning: Your guests *will* try to decode them. Maybe include a cheat sheet in your program if you’re feeling generous.

A string of colorful nautical flags hung between two palm trees, spelling out the couple’s initials in maritime code. Beneath them, a wooden bar is set up with blue-striped straws in mason jars, ready for cocktail hour.

14. Sailboat Cake Topper

Forget the traditional bride-and-groom figurine—opt for a tiny sailboat cake topper instead. It’s whimsical, romantic, and a perfect nod to your theme without being too literal. Bonus points if the boat is personalized with your names or wedding date.

And hey, if you’re not into cake, use the sailboat as a topper for a cheese wheel tower or even a stack of donuts. No rules here!

A sleek white wedding cake with smooth buttercream frosting, topped with a delicate wooden sailboat. The boat’s sails are made of edible paper with the couple’s initials painted in navy blue, and a tiny flag waves at the top of the mast.

15. Navy Blue Suits for the Groom and Groomsmen

Nothing says “nautical chic” like a sharp navy suit. It’s timeless, versatile, and looks good on literally everyone. Pair it with brown leather shoes for a relaxed vibe or black oxfords for a more formal feel. Add a white pocket square or a striped tie to drive the theme home.

Pro tip: Linen suits are your best friend if you’re getting married in warmer weather. No one wants a sweaty groom—trust me.

A dapper groom and his groomsmen standing on a wooden dock, all wearing tailored navy blue suits with white dress shirts. The groom sports a navy-and-white striped tie, while the groomsmen wear solid navy ties. Behind them, sailboats bob gently in the harbor.

16. Ocean-Inspired Florals

Skip the predictable red roses and opt for flowers that evoke the sea. Think white hydrangeas (they look like fluffy clouds or ocean foam), blue delphiniums, or even succulents for a beachy vibe. Add sprigs of eucalyptus or olive branches for texture and movement.

For a real showstopper, incorporate dried elements like pampas grass or bleached palm fronds. They’re unexpected and totally Insta-worthy.

A lush bridal bouquet of white hydrangeas, blue thistle, and silvery eucalyptus, tied with a navy ribbon. The bouquet rests on a weathered wooden bench, with a few scattered seashells and a piece of driftwood nearby.

17. Rope Chandeliers

Take your lighting game to the next level with rope chandeliers. These statement pieces combine rustic charm with nautical flair, and they’re surprisingly easy to DIY (if you’re handy). Hang them above your dance floor or dining tables for a dramatic effect.

Just make sure they’re securely fastened—the last thing you need is a chandelier swinging into your cousin’s face during the Electric Slide.

A stunning rope chandelier suspended from the ceiling of a rustic barn, with Edison bulbs glowing inside the woven structure. Below, a wooden dance floor is ready for guests, with a few navy-and-white striped cushions scattered around the perimeter.

18. Nautical-Inspired Cocktails

Your bar menu is a great place to sneak in some nautical touches. Serve drinks with names like “The Salty Dog” or “Anchor’s Aweigh,” and garnish them with citrus twists, edible flowers, or even tiny paper umbrellas (because why not?). For a fun twist, use mini sailor’s knots as drink stirrers or serve cocktails in mason jars with striped straws.

FYI, a signature cocktail is also a great way to hide the fact that you’re serving cheap champagne. No one will notice if it’s drowning in pineapple juice and rum.

A rustic wooden bar topped with an array of nautical-inspired cocktails—a gin and tonic in a copper mug with a lime wedge, a dark rum punch garnished with a pineapple slice, and a champagne flute with a tiny paper sailboat floating inside. Navy striped straws and a few scattered seashells complete the scene.

19. Compass Rose Details

A compass rose is a subtle yet meaningful way to incorporate nautical symbolism into your wedding. Use it as a motif on your invitations, aisle runner, or even etched into your glassware. For a personal touch, choose a compass design that points to your hometown or the location of your wedding.

It’s also a great metaphor for marriage—navigating life together, always finding your way back to each other. *Cue the awws.*

A close-up of a wooden ceremony aisle runner with a large, intricately painted compass rose at the center. The design is done in navy and gold, and the runner is flanked by simple white flower petals leading to an arch draped in flowing white fabric.

20. Nautical-Inspired Wedding Bands

Why stop at decor when you can carry the theme right onto your fingers? Look for wedding bands with wave engravings, rope detailing, or even tiny anchor charms. For something more subtle, opt for a brushed metal finish that mimics the look of weathered ship metal.

And if you’re feeling extra, get matching tattoos of coordinates from your wedding location. Just maybe wait until *after* the open bar.