VIP vs Standard Boat Party Tickets: What’s Actually Worth It?

When deciding between VIP and standard boat party tickets, it helps to understand what each option really gives you.

Across most party boats, VIP tickets usually include perks like priority boarding, upgraded drinks and reserved seating areas, while standard tickets focus on the core experience — great music, a lively crowd and everything you need for an unforgettable time on the water.

The question is simple: is the upgrade actually worth it?

Let’s break it down so you can choose the best option for your budget, group and vibe.

Standard tickets: fun on a budget

Standard tickets give you an unforgettable party experience without blowing the budget – perfect if you’re on a cheap holiday and trying to have as much fun as possible for your money.

Your standard ticket will typically include:

• Access to the full duration of the boat party​
• Live DJ performances and entertainment 
• Delicious food (this varies depending on your boat) 
• Swim stops at picturesque locations ​
• Complimentary drinks (this varies, but you’ll often receive a free welcome drink or shot)​
• Photo opportunities, games, face painting, and more

Ideal for: budget-savvy clubbers, students, hen and stag parties trying to keep costs down without compromising on fun.

VIP tickets: elevate your experience

A VIP upgrade promises all of the fun of a standard ticket with extra perks thrown in for good measure if you’re in the mood to splash the cash.

Typically, the added extras might include:

• Priority boarding to secure the best spots​
• Access to exclusive VIP areas with luxurious seating
• Premium drink options with branded spirits and mixers
• Open bars with all-inclusive drinks  
• Table service 

Ideal for: special occasions, treats, people with more disposable income, anyone who saves up all year to experience a luxury trip. 

In most destinations, the difference comes down to comfort and convenience. Standard tickets give you full access to the party, while VIP upgrades focus on extras like space, service and premium drinks.

Choosing the best boat party experience

If you’re deciding whether to upgrade, here are a few things worth considering:

• Your budget – standard tickets offer brilliant value and include all of the essentials to have an epic trip while sticking to your spending budget.
• Value for money – it’s worth checking if a VIP ticket actually saves you money overall. If you go standard but end up spending big on drinks, upgrading to VIP (with an open bar) could work out cheaper.
• Experience: VIP tickets provide added comfort, exclusivity, and premium amenities.​
• Occasion: for special celebrations like birthdays, hen and stag parties, VIP may level up your experience to help create lifelong memories.​

Both ticket types promise an amazing time, so opt for the package that fits your vibe and tribe best.  

For a more elevated day out — often paired with group celebrations or special occasions — some destinations are known for a more premium atmosphere, where VIP upgrades can feel especially worthwhile.

VIP packages on select party boats

VIP upgrades are available on select Ultimate Boat Parties boats.

Let’s take a closer look at how VIP and standard options compare across different types of party experiences.

Scenic party boat experience

For those who value a scenic cruise with music but don’t want the premium lift, destinations like Tenerife are known for delivering strong value with great views and party energy.

On this type of boat, you’ll often find multiple ticket options:

Standard ticket: all of the boat party fun with DJs and MCs, often paired with a pre-party and a fully stocked onboard bar.

Standard ticket + open bar: everything included in the standard ticket plus a set-duration open bar with beer, local spirits, and mixers.

Premium ticket: upgraded access to features like sunbeds, premium spirits, and enhanced drink options.

VIP ticket: all of the above plus priority boarding, access to a private VIP area with comfortable seating, and a fully upgraded drinks package.

Why upgrade?
For those seeking a more exclusive experience with premium drinks and space to relax, VIP can offer strong value.

👉 You can view full details and availability on our Tenerife Boat Party page.

High-energy party experience

If you’re more about crowd energy than added extras, many travellers prefer the social buzz of standard tickets — especially in destinations known for lively music and group interaction.

Standard ticket: access to a multi-hour cruise with live DJs, entertainment, and often added extras like transport or after-parties.

VIP ticket: includes everything in the standard ticket plus access to a private area, reserved seating, table service, and priority boarding.

Why upgrade?
Perfect for groups wanting a dedicated space to enjoy the party while still being part of the overall atmosphere.

👉 See full details for the Zante Boat Party experience.

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Whatever ticket you choose — VIP or standard — the experience you get depends on where you go.

Here are some of the most popular destinations where groups enjoy both styles of boat parties:

👉 Magaluf Boat Party – Classic daytime cruise with VIP & standard options
👉 Benidorm Boat Party – Great balance of crowd, music & inclusions
👉 Zante Boat Party – High-energy Greek island vibe
👉 Tenerife Boat Party – Scenic party cruise with value options
👉 Ibiza Boat Party – Premium cruise experience
👉 Split Boat Party – Adriatic cruise with music & views
👉 Barcelona Boat Party – City-to-sea party experience