Greeks in Greece and throughout the world decorate boats during the holiday season. It’s a long-standing tradition that is connected to many seaside villages and islands and their connection to St. Nicholas, who is considered as the patron saint of seafarers.

Boats are decorated by island folk as a show of appreciation to St. Nicholas for bringing the sailors home safely for the holidays.

The holiday boat is called the “karavaki” in Greek.

The tradition quickly spread throughout Greece and now, boats in all shapes and sizes are considered mainstay Christmas decorations in people’s homes, as well as in public squares throughout Greece.

You don’t need anything elaborate to decorate a boat and add a hint of Greek tradition in your home.

You can start with a simple decorative boat. Dozens of shapes and styles are available on Amazon.

Columbia, winner of the 1901 America’s Cup (16″)

A Vintage Woode Fishing Boat (15″)

The Atlantic, built in 1903 by Townsend and Downey shipyard (30″)

Add a short string of Christmas lights that are specifically made for indoor use.

You can even add a tiny Greek flag on top.

Just get toothpick Greek flags and decorate as you like. You can trim the toothpick to the length you desire and add it to the boat wherever you like. Get Greek flag toothpicks here.

And there you have your very own Greek Christmas boat, also known as the “karavaki.”