To Push the Boat Out (Origin)

What Is the Origin of the Saying "To Push the Boat Out"?

To push the boat out means to throw a wild party, to do something with real vigour, or to incur a large expense. This is a nautical saying which derives from when sailors would throw a raucous party before setting sail. These were known as push the boat out parties. The sailors did not literally push the boat out. This saying has been figurative from the outset.

Examples of Use:

• They've really pushed the boat out for this wedding, haven't they?
• Push the boat out and have a party!
• We're pushing the boat out. We're sparing no expense.

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