Navy Grog Cocktail Recipe – Rum, Citrus & Honey Perfection

Bold, refreshing, and packed with flavor, the Navy Grog is one of the most celebrated tiki cocktails of all time. Beloved by fans of Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic’s, this drink combines three different rums, fresh citrus, and honey syrup to create a perfectly balanced mix of strength and sweetness. The result is a smooth yet potent tropical drink that embodies the golden age of tiki culture. In this post, we’ll share the authentic recipe, explain how to make honey syrup for the perfect texture, and offer pro tips for achieving that signature crushed-ice or ice-cone presentation.

10/7/20251 min read

📖 Ingredients (1 serving):

1 oz light rum
1 oz dark rum
1 oz Demerara or aged rum (for depth and richness)
¾ oz fresh lime juice
¾ oz grapefruit juice
¾ oz honey syrup (made from 1 part honey + 1 part hot water, cooled)
1 oz club soda (optional, for a lighter version)
Crushed ice or an ice cone

🍍 Garnish:

Mint sprig
Lime wheel
Optional: a nautical flag pick or cinnamon stick for tiki flair

🛠️ Equipment Needed:

Cocktail shaker
Jigger or measuring tool
Bar spoon
Tiki mug or double Old Fashioned glass

🍹 Instructions:

Make the honey syrup:
- Mix equal parts honey and hot water until smooth, then let it cool.
Combine the ingredients:
- In a shaker filled with ice, add:
  - 1 oz light rum
  - 1 oz dark rum
  - 1 oz Demerara rum
  - ¾ oz lime juice
  - ¾ oz grapefruit juice
  - ¾ oz honey syrup
Shake well for about 15 seconds until chilled.
Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice (or an ice cone, as in the classic presentation).
Optional: Top with 1 oz club soda for a lighter finish.
Garnish with a mint sprig and lime wheel for a tropical look.

✨ Tips for the Perfect Navy Grog:

Use three distinct rums for balance—light for brightness, dark for molasses depth, and aged for complexity.
Honey syrup is key: pure honey is too thick to mix properly.
For authentic tiki presentation, use a cone-shaped ice mound in the glass to slowly melt and mellow the strong mix.
You can float a dash of 151-proof rum on top for a classic tiki “kick.”

✅ Flavor Profile:

Strong, citrusy, and slightly sweet with layered rum complexity and a smooth honey finish. The balance of tropical fruit and spice makes it both refreshing and robust.