When it comes to fine dining on a superyacht, presentation is everything. From the precise placement of cutlery to the gleam of polished glassware, a beautifully laid formal table isn’t just service – it’s a form of art that is expected by guests.
For stews, setting the formal table is a chance to showcase professionalism, creativity, and keen attention to detail that elevates the entire dining experience.
Whether you’re preparing for a high-end charter dinner or an owner’s elegant evening, here’s your go-to guide for creating a showstopping formal table.
The basics: Laying the foundation
Crisp, clean linens
- Start with ironed tablecloths and/or runners in pristine condition
- Use placemats if desired but keep them consistent and aligned
- Consider a neutral base so your tableware and décor pop
Table height & spacing
- Ensure all chairs are evenly spaced and the table isn’t too crowded
- Guests should have enough elbow room – aim for about minimum 24, ideally 30 inches per person
Place setting 101: Classic formal setup
There are international table settings which vary slightly, but a traditional formal place setting includes:
- Charger Plate (underplate – decorative and removed before the main course)
- Dinner Plate (centered on the charger)
- Starter Plate (if needed, on top of the dinner plate)
- Napkin (folded or styled elegantly, either on the plate or to the left)
Flatware placement (from outside in):
- Left Side: Salad fork, dinner fork
- Right Side: Soup spoon (if used), fish knife, dinner knife
- Above Plate: Dessert spoon & fork (horizontal)
Glassware (top right corner, in a triangle or line):
- Water goblet
- White wine glass
- Red wine glass
- Champagne flute (if applicable)
Tip: Align all cutlery bottoms with the plate base, roughly 1 inch from the table edge. It should look tight and intentional.
The devil is in the details…
Polish EVERYTHING
- Every piece of glassware and cutlery should gleam – no fingerprints, no water marks.
- Buff glasses with a microfiber cloth to ensure it’s sparkling.
Symmetry is Key
- Uniformity is crucial for that high-end aesthetic, ensuring everything is in line and placed with intention.
Personal Touches
- Menu cards, name cards, or handwritten place settings elevate the experience.
- For themed nights or special guests, coordinate colours.
Styling & centrepieces
This is where you get to flex your creativity… to an extent.
- Low-profile décor: Guests should never have to peek over a towering centrepiece. Keep arrangements low or use tall, narrow elements that don’t obstruct views.
- Balance is everything: Flowers, candles, and accents, ensure the table is not crowded.
- Avoid heavy scents: Go for unscented candles and mild florals to avoid overpowering the dining aromas.
Use the yacht’s location for inspiration. Tropical? Add seashells and monstera leaves. Mediterranean? Olive branches and lemons. Themed elegance always wins.
Final checklist before guests arrive
- Double-check each setting
- Ensure all cutlery is polished with no bits of debris on the table from wind etc
- Light candles (at the right moment)
- Napkin folds are still in place
- Step back and view the table from a guest’s eye level
- Ensure salt/peppers and any accompaniments that will be fine in heat are already prepared and out
- Set the mood with lighting and music to fit the theme – not too loud!
Common mistakes to avoid
- Knife blades facing outwards (they should always face in!)
- Uneven spacing or crooked cutlery
- Using overly fragrant flowers or candles
- Clashing tableware (stick to a theme or palette)
- Overloading the table – leave room for serving dishes
Bonus tip: Communicate with the Chef
Always sync up with your chef to ensure your setting matches the menu. A tasting menu may call for more cutlery or courses, while a plated 3-course dinner offers more room for creative styling. This also helps to reinforce the important relationship between galley and interior departments.
Setting a formal table onboard a superyacht is more than a task – it’s a performance and a chance to showcase your creative abilities. With precision, creativity and elegance, you can transform a simple dinner into a five-star experience.
Photo: @thestewtable on IG
