Last Updated on December 9, 2025
Bunk beds are a great way to save space and add fun to any room, especially when designed with a boat theme. Whether you’re decorating a kid’s room or adding charm to a guest space, the right decor can turn simple bunk beds into an exciting, cozy retreat.
This article will help you discover 25 creative bunk bed decor ideas that bring the spirit of boats to life in your space. With the right touches, you can create a room that feels like a small adventure on the water.
PRO TIP
Focus on simple details like nautical colors, ropes, and boat-shaped frames to make your bunk beds feel truly special without needing a big budget.
1) Use navy blue and white striped bedding for a classic nautical vibe
Navy blue and white stripes are a simple way to bring a boat-like feel to your bunk bed space. This color combo is clean and timeless, making your room feel fresh and calm. When you add striped bedding, it instantly gives off that classic sea vibe without needing too many other decorations.
Pair your striped bedding with a white bed frame or headboard to keep the look balanced. You can also add some navy throw pillows for extra comfort and a pop of color. These small touches make the space feel cozy and styled like a real boat cabin.
To finish the look, think about soft wall colors like light gray or pale blue. They create a gentle background that lets your bedding stand out, helping your room feel bright and inviting.
PRO TIP
Try adding rope or wood accents nearby to enhance the nautical feel. Small details like these make the design complete and really tie everything together.
2) Incorporate boat-shaped bunk bed frames with curved hull designs
Choosing a bunk bed with a boat-shaped frame can bring a fun, nautical feel to your child’s room. These beds often have curved hull designs that mimic the look of a real ship. This simple design detail helps create an immersive experience that makes bedtime more exciting.
The curved shape adds a smooth, flowing look that fits well with other sea-themed decor. Many of these bunk beds also include features like porthole windows or railings. These details make the design feel authentic and adventurous.
Using a boat-shaped bunk bed frame is a great way to combine style and function. It keeps the room organized, while also inspiring imagination and play. You’ll enjoy seeing how much your child loves their new “boat” bed.
PRO TIP
Look for designs with built-in storage or shelves. They help save space and keep toys or books close at hand, making the room tidy and practical.
3) Add rope ladder accents for a fun, maritime touch
Using a rope ladder is a simple way to bring a real boat vibe to your bunk bed. You can hang it on the side or wall near the bed for a playful, nautical feel. It adds texture and keeps the room feeling fresh and lively.
Rope ladders don’t just look good—they’re also useful. You can use the rungs to hang small items like photos or lightweight decorations. This makes your space both practical and stylish, capturing that classic ocean look.
Choosing natural rope helps keep things authentic. It blends well with wood and blue tones, common in boat decor. Plus, it’s easy to swap out if you want to refresh your room down the line.
PRO TIP
Secure the rope ladder firmly to avoid any accidents. Use hooks or wall anchors for safety, especially if kids will use the bunk beds. This keeps your maritime look fun and safe.
4) Install porthole-style mirrors or windows near the bed
Adding porthole-style mirrors or windows near your bunk bed can instantly bring a maritime vibe to the space. These round elements mimic the look of ship windows, making your room feel like it’s part of a boat’s cabin. You can place them on the wall close to the bed or even on the bed frame itself.
These mirrors or windows help reflect light, brightening up smaller bunk areas. They also add a fun, nautical design touch without taking up much space. If you want to boost the effect, use blue or soft white LED lights around the portholes to create a cozy, underwater glow.
Using these porthole features is a simple way to give your bunk bed that boat-like charm. It blends style with practicality, and it’s easy to install even in tight spaces.
PRO TIP
Choose porthole mirrors with a weathered or brass finish for a more authentic look. This gives your space a classic nautical feel, just like being on a ship.
5) Use anchor or ship wheel throw pillows
Anchor and ship wheel throw pillows are simple ways to add a nautical touch to your bunk bed. They bring in classic sea symbols that fit perfectly with boat-themed decor. You can place these pillows on the top or bottom bunk to add comfort and style.
These pillows come in different sizes and colors. Navy blue and white are popular choices that match most boat decor. You could also mix pillows with anchors and ship wheels to create a fun and playful look.
Throw pillows with these designs also make the space feel cozy. They add texture and patterns without making the room look messy. Plus, they are easy to switch out if you want to change your style later.
PRO TIP
Choose pillows made with durable, easy-to-clean fabrics. This helps especially if kids use the bunk beds or if you want to keep them fresh over time.
6) Decorate with marine-themed wall decals like sea creatures and ships
Using marine-themed wall decals is an easy way to bring the ocean vibe to your bunk bed space. You can choose from a variety of sea creatures like sharks, dolphins, fish, and even ships. These stickers are usually removable and reusable, so you can change the look whenever you want.
The decals come in bright colors that add life to the walls without taking up floor space. They work great in kids’ rooms on boats because they create a fun, underwater world without clutter. You can mix animals with ships, anchors, or waves for a complete sea adventure look.
Applying the decals is simple; most are peel-and-stick. This makes decorating fast and stress-free, especially if you’re working with kids who want to help.
PRO TIP
Pick decals in different sizes to create a sense of depth. Place larger creatures near the bottom and smaller ones higher up to make your space feel bigger and more dynamic.
7) Include built-in shelves shaped like boat decks
Adding built-in shelves that look like boat decks is a fun way to boost both style and storage. These shelves give your bunk bed a ship-like look that kids will love. You can use them to keep books, toys, or small treasures close at hand.
The curved or arc-shaped design of the shelves mimics real boat decks. This makes the bed feel like a tiny ship that sparks imagination during playtime. Plus, the shelves help keep the room tidy with easy storage options.
Having shelves built into the bunk bed saves space, which is great if your room is small. It gives you extra spots without needing separate furniture. This practical touch blends nicely with the nautical theme.
PRO TIP
Choose shelves made from sturdy wood like pine or MDF. They hold up well and can handle daily use. You can also decorate the shelves with little nautical items to enhance the boat vibe.
8) Add built-in LED lights resembling ship lanterns
Adding built-in LED lights that look like old ship lanterns can give your bunk area a classic marine feel. These lights fit well with the boat’s theme while providing soft, warm lighting. You can mount them on the walls near your bunks for both style and function.
LEDs are a great choice because they use less power and last longer than traditional bulbs. Many LED fixtures designed for boats are small and water-resistant, so they hold up well in tight spaces. Plus, the warm glow helps you relax without being too bright.
You can find lantern-style LED lights with switches for easy control. That way, you can turn your light on or off without getting out of bed. These built-in lights also save space since you don’t need extra lamps or cords.
PRO TIP
Choose LED lights with dimming options or multiple color settings. This lets you adjust the brightness depending on your mood or activity, like reading or just chilling.
9) Place a small aquarium integrated into the bed frame
Adding a small aquarium inside your bunk bed frame can bring a fun, nautical vibe to the room. It creates a peaceful and interesting focal point for the space. Plus, it fits perfectly with your boat-themed decor.
You can choose where to place the aquarium—either on the sides, at the footboard, or even beneath the mattress. The fish swimming gently can help make bedtime calm and relaxing. Just make sure the tank is secure and sealed well to avoid leaks.
Keep the aquarium size small to fit the bed frame while still giving enough room for a few colorful fish. You can also add small plants or decorations inside the tank to match your boat style without making it look crowded.
PRO TIP
Pick low-maintenance fish like bettas or guppies. This way, your aquarium stays simple to care for, and you get more time to enjoy the cool look it adds to your bunk bed.
10) Use starfish and seashell decorative elements
Adding starfish and seashell decorations is an easy way to bring a coastal feel to your boat’s bunk bed area. You can place small seashells in clear jars or arrange starfish on shelves nearby. These natural elements add texture and a beachy vibe without taking up much space.
Seashells can also be used to create unique wall art above the bunk bed. Attach them to wood planks or frames to make custom decorations that match your style. Starfish accents work well as wall hangings or as part of bedding patterns.
Using these decorations gives your boat’s sleeping area a calm, ocean-inspired look. They’re small, light, and simple to switch out if you want to refresh your space.
PRO TIP
Try combining seashells with soft lighting or nautical colors to make your starfish and seashell decorations pop. It creates a cozy, beachy retreat you’ll enjoy every time you hop into bed.
11) Install a mast-inspired canopy above the bunk bed
You can create a fun, boat-like feel by installing a mast-inspired canopy over your bunk bed. Use a sturdy wooden pole or dowel as the “mast,” mounting it on the ceiling just above the bunk. Then, drape lightweight fabric from the mast to the edges of the bed frame.
This canopy style adds a nautical touch that fits perfectly with your boat decor. It also gives the bunk a cozy, enclosed space that feels like a small sailboat cabin. Choose fabric colors like navy blue, white, or stripes for an authentic look.
Keep the fabric light so it doesn’t feel heavy or block too much light. You can also add small hooks or clips to adjust the canopy easily whenever you want more airflow or brightness.
PRO TIP
Use lightweight cotton or linen with a few simple nautical patterns to keep things fresh and easy to clean. This way, your canopy stays durable and comfortable for your little sailors.
12) Incorporate wood paneling that mimics boat interiors
Using wood paneling in your bunk bed area can give your space a real boat-like feel. It adds warmth and a classic touch that echoes the inside of many boats. You can choose wood tones that match traditional nautical styles, like rich browns or lighter maple shades.
Wood paneling also helps create a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere. It can break up plain walls and make your bunk feel more inviting. Plus, it’s a durable option that stands up well to wear and tear.
You don’t need full panels everywhere. Even small sections or accents of wood around the bed frame or walls can make a big difference. This look ties the entire room together and keeps your decor in the boat theme.
PRO TIP
Use marine-grade wood or wood finishes to keep your paneling safe from moisture and damage. This will help it last longer on your boat.
13) Use navy blue curtains with sailboat patterns
Navy blue curtains with sailboat patterns are a great way to bring a nautical feel to your bunk bed area. The deep blue color pairs well with boat-inspired themes, adding a cozy and calm vibe to the room.
These curtains can help block out light for better sleep, while also giving the space a fun, sea-inspired look. Sailboat patterns add visual interest without overwhelming the décor.
You can hang these curtains on small windows or even use them to create a private, ship-like bunk nook. The navy blue color works well with white or wood tones often found in boat decor.
PRO TIP
Choose lightweight curtains to keep the room feeling fresh. If you want, add sheer layers underneath to let in soft light while keeping the sailboat design visible.
14) Add a mini lifebuoy wall hanging
A mini lifebuoy wall hanging is a simple way to bring a nautical touch to your boat’s bunk bed area. It’s small, lightweight, and easy to hang on the wall without taking up much space. This decoration adds charm and fits well with other maritime-themed items.
You can find lifebuoys made of foam or wood in bright colors like red, white, or blue. These colors brighten up the space and give that true sea vibe. Plus, they can be paired with string lights or small nautical signs for extra style.
Mini lifebuoys don’t serve as real safety gear, so think of them as a fun, decorative piece. You can hang it above the bunk bed or near shelves for a cozy, coastal feel.
PRO TIP
Choose a lifebuoy with a rope or hook already attached. This makes it quicker and safer to hang. It also helps keep your bunk bed area tidy and fun!
15) Hang fishing netting with decorative buoys on the wall
Adding fishing netting to the wall gives your bunk bed area a true boat vibe. You can hang the net loosely or spread it flat, depending on the space you have.
To make it more interesting, attach decorative buoys to the net. They add color and shape while making the décor feel authentic. You can find buoys with different patterns or paint plain ones yourself.
The net and buoys work well as a background piece. It adds texture and gives the room a fun, nautical touch. You can even clip small shells or starfish to the net for extra charm.
PRO TIP
Use lightweight hooks or push-pins to hang the net without damaging walls. It’s easy to adjust the design as you like.
16) Paint the bed frame in ocean-inspired teal and coral hues
Painting your bunk bed frame in teal and coral can bring a fresh, lively look to your boat’s bedroom. These colors reflect the ocean and add a vibrant yet calming touch. Teal offers a deep, soothing tone, while coral adds warm, energetic pops of color.
You can choose to paint the entire frame one color, or mix the two. For example, teal bedposts with coral slats create a playful, beachy vibe. These shades work well with natural wood and simple bedding, making your space feel bright and inviting.
Using ocean-inspired colors also helps connect your bunk beds with the boat’s theme. It’s an easy way to add personality without cluttering the room. This combo is perfect whether you want a bold statement or a subtle coastal feel.
PRO TIP
Use water-based, marine-friendly paint to protect the wood from moisture and keep colors vibrant longer.
17) Use rope curtain tiebacks for a textured look
Rope curtain tiebacks are perfect for adding a natural, textured feel to your boat’s bunk bed area. They fit well with nautical themes and bring a bit of rugged charm without needing much effort.
You can easily create these tiebacks using different types of rope, like natural jute or soft cotton. They hold curtains or fabric panels neatly, keeping the space open and airy. Plus, rope tiebacks add an intentional design touch that doesn’t feel overdone.
Tying simple knots or wrapping the rope in creative ways can make your space feel cozy and inviting. You could even add small seashells or beads to the rope for a little personalized style. This small detail can make your bunk area feel unique and well-planned.
PRO TIP
Choose ropes that are soft to touch and avoid rough ones. This will keep your space comfortable and safe, especially if little hands might brush against them.
18) Add a vintage compass clock nearby
Adding a vintage compass clock near your bunk beds can bring a charming nautical touch to your boat’s space. The classic look of the compass fits perfectly with marine decor. It also helps keep track of time while adding character to the room.
You can find many styles, from wooden framed clocks to ones that look like old ship instruments. A compass clock not only serves as decor but also adds a unique conversation piece for your guests. It blends well with other vintage or maritime elements you might already have.
Place it where it’s easy to see, like above the bunk beds or near the door. This small detail can make your bunk room feel cozy and connected to the sea.
PRO TIP
Choose a clock with clear numbers or simple dials. This makes it easier to read, especially in low light or during late-night snacks.
19) Use bedding with subtle wave or ocean print designs
Choosing bedding with soft wave or ocean patterns brings a gentle touch of the sea right into your bunk bed space. These prints don’t overwhelm but add a calm, peaceful vibe. You can pick designs in light blues, sandy beiges, or muted whites to keep the look fresh and relaxing.
These ocean-inspired patterns work well in small spaces, like on a boat, because they don’t feel busy or cluttered. They help create a cozy spot that still feels connected to the water outside your window. Plus, subtle designs can blend easily with other decor without clashing.
Adding textures, like quilted covers or linen sheets, builds comfort and interest while staying true to the coastal feel. This way, your bunk bed looks inviting and perfect for a good night’s rest.
PRO TIP
Try mixing solid colors with wave prints. This keeps your bedding from feeling too “matchy” and adds a playful, stylish touch to your boat’s sleeping area.
20) Decorate with miniature model ships on shelves
Placing miniature model ships on shelves is a great way to add charm to your boat-themed bunk bed room. These small models bring a nautical vibe without taking up too much space.
You can arrange them along a wall shelf or inside a bookcase. Grouping different styles and sizes creates visual interest. The models also add a touch of history and adventure that fits perfectly with maritime decor.
Using shelves keeps the models safe and easy to see. It also helps keep the room tidy. Plus, these little ships can become conversation starters or special keepsakes.
PRO TIP
Choose shelves with ledges or small barriers to keep the models from falling. Consider using glass cases if you want extra protection, especially if kids use the room.
21) Include storage drawers shaped like ship crates
Adding storage drawers shaped like ship crates is a smart way to keep your space tidy while sticking to the boat theme. These drawers give you a place to store toys, clothes, or bedding without breaking the look of the room.
The crate design fits perfectly with nautical style. It feels like you’re bringing a bit of the ship’s cargo hold right into your child’s bedroom. Plus, the drawers are easy to pull out and push back in, making everyday use simple.
You don’t have to worry about the drawers looking boring. You can paint them in colors like navy blue, white, or sea green to match your room’s style. They add both function and charm without taking up extra space.
PRO TIP
Choose drawers with sturdy handles that match the ship crate look. This makes them easier to use and keeps the design consistent throughout the room.
22) Use a map of the seas or old maritime charts as wall art
Adding a map of the seas or old maritime charts to your boat’s bunk bed area is a great way to bring in a nautical vibe. These maps add history and character to the space. You can find vintage charts that show coastlines, islands, and ocean routes, making the room feel like a real ship’s cabin.
Framed or unframed, these charts work well on walls near the bunk beds. They are also available as canvas prints or wood maps, giving you many styles to choose from. The colors and lines on the maps can match your boat’s decor and create a cool, maritime atmosphere without being too loud.
Using these charts as wall art is both decorative and personal. It reminds you of the sea’s adventure right where you sleep.
PRO TIP
Choose maps of places that mean something to you, like your favorite sailing spots. It makes the decor extra special and unique.
23) Place a ship bell wall hook near the bed
Adding a ship bell wall hook near your bunk bed is a simple way to bring a nautical touch into your space. It works great as both a decorative piece and a practical hook for hanging items like robes, hats, or small bags. The classic shape and sound of a ship bell can make your room feel like a cozy cabin on a boat.
You can install it close to the bed for easy access. This way, you have a spot for things you often need without cluttering the room.
A ship bell also adds character and fits perfectly with other maritime decor. Whether your style is rustic or modern, the bell blends in nicely.
PRO TIP
Choose a ship bell with a sturdy hook and a smooth, quiet ringing sound. This will keep your room peaceful while still giving you that authentic boat vibe.
24) Add seagull or dolphin plush toys for cozy accents
Adding seagull or dolphin plush toys is a simple way to make your bunk bed area feel cozy and fit the boat theme. These soft toys bring a friendly, nautical touch that can brighten the space without taking up much room.
You can place a few plush seagulls on the bed or shelves to create a beachy vibe. Dolphins work well too, adding a playful ocean feel kids and adults will both like. Their soft textures invite relaxing and snuggling after a long day.
Choose plush toys in colors that match your boat’s decor to keep everything looking neat and calm. They also make great gifts or surprises to keep your space fun and warm.
PRO TIP
Look for realistic but soft plush toys for comfort and style. Keeping them clean and dust-free will help your space stay inviting.
25) Use hardwood floors with a distressed, driftwood finish
Choosing hardwood floors with a distressed, driftwood finish can add a cozy, beachy feel to your boat’s bunk bed area. This type of flooring brings natural charm and a rustic look that fits well with nautical themes. It also hides scratches and wear, which is great for busy spaces.
The driftwood finish mimics weathered wood found on the shore, giving the room a calm, seaside vibe. You can pick floors that look hand-scraped or have a matte finish to keep things low-maintenance. This style works with many colors and decorations, making it an easy way to update your boat’s interior.
PRO TIP
Look for engineered hardwood with a distressed finish. It stands up better to moisture and movement on boats. Plus, the rustic look will always feel fresh and inviting.
