We dwell on a sailboat and luxuriate in ‘minimalist’ Christmas traditions – however we would not have it another approach

A family who live on a sailboat have shared how their Christmas is more minimal than others – but they wouldn’t have it any other way.

Stephanie Stevens, 35, from Jersey in the UK, lives on board the Pinnacle with her husband Richard, 40, and their two children – Jesse, three, and one-year-old Roux.

The family moved onto their boat to sail the world just one year ago and have found themselves living a minimalist lifestyle. 

Since the big transition, they have become conscious of how much they can or should own, and what they can fit in their small space.

And in the run up to Christmas, this means less presents than normal. They also don’t do advent calendars.

‘Instead of chocolate, we use small surprises like stickers, sea shells, stationary and notepads,’ Stephanie, a content creator, said.  ‘For presents, we keep things minimal, focusing on small, practical items or experiences.

‘A simple toy car has become a tradition. The kids receive one for every country we’ve visited, and with 22 countries so far, their collection is growing.

‘These tiny cars bring endless joy and keep them entertained for hours. There are definitely a couple of these stored away for Christmas.

‘If we’re expecting visitors, we plan ahead and order the items to them, so they can bring them out to us, and we can give them back to them.

‘Clothing is another essential gift because the boys are constantly growing and their swimmers take a beating from the sun and saltwater.

‘Christmas for us is less about the ‘stuff’ and more about creating special memories together, wherever we are in the world.’

As for the children, Stef and Rich don’t believe they’re missing out on anything.

Stef said: ‘Our boys don’t really know what they’re missing back home. Jesse was only one during his last Christmas in Jersey, and Roux has yet to experience a ‘traditional’ Christmas. We do our best to keep family traditions alive, no matter where we are.

‘We bake Christmas biscuits, put up a tree, even if it’s a small one, play Christmas songs, and read festive stories together. These simple rituals keep the holiday spirit strong onboard.’

And when it comes to food, the Stevens family plans well ahead.

Stef said: ‘Our version of Christmas lunch is a bit unconventional but perfect for our lifestyle – surf and turf on the BBQ, with freshly caught fish and whatever local fruits and vegetables we can find.

‘While the boys won’t visit Santa’s grotto, skate on a Christmas-lit ice rink, or be surrounded by our extended family and cousins this year, they’ll have something different: magical memories made together. 

‘We make sure the season feels extra special, filling it with love, adventure, and all the magic we can create.’

For the big day, they plan on trying to find a good location with beautiful scenery. Stef said: ‘As much as we can plan on a boat, with weather and sheltered anchor spots, we try to ensure we are in a good location.

‘We research local traditions and try to get involved to enjoy the experiences of different cultures and meet the people.’

But they make sure to decorate the boat with some festive cheer. Stef said: ‘When we left home I packed a special box with our favorite and most sentimental Christmas decorations.It’s stored safely under our bed and brought out in December.

‘Inside, we have a small Christmas tree with ornaments passed down through my family, a material advent calendar, stockings, a festive table runner, and Santa hats.’

And this year, they even have visitors.Stef said: ‘My younger brother Freddie and his girlfriend Chelsea will be joining us onboard, which makes it even more special.

‘We’re aiming to meet them around Bocas del Toro, Panama, where we plan to spend Christmas Day.

‘It’s said to have a fantastic atmosphere during the festive season, and we’re hoping for the added bonus of some surf sessions – a Christmas gift we’d absolutely love.

‘Having family on board will help us fully embrace the holiday spirit.We’re looking forward to playing Christmas games, singing songs, and sharing stories around the table. It is amazing not only to experience the local Christmas festivities and traditions. 

‘But to also be around other cruisers of all nationalities to hear about all of their traditions and get involved in some of them. Being taught new recipes and getting crafty with other boat kids and locals.’