Chess on a boat


get some great magnets and attach them to the bottom. The play on a metal table.
alternatively, velcro tabs. they come in round discs with sticky backs.
another option -- get some cardboard and make a board, then cut holes in it over each square so the pieces get sunk into the board so they can't slide around.
out of ideas good luck

Hmm...
I think that as long as the boat doesn't go into the water, you should be fine.