Abstract: A watercraft drinking vessel holder and method for retaining a drinking vessel on a watercraft is configured to contain a can, cup, or water bottle for easy access during paddle boarding. The vessel holder attaches to a flat watercraft through multiple crisscrossing stretch cords that pass through elongated slots forming through the longitudinal of the vessel holder. The crisscrossing stretches cords retain the vessel holder substantially upright on the watercraft. The vessel holder has a flat base designed to sit flush against the surface of watercraft. A sidewall projects upwardly from the base. The sidewall receives drinking vessel, and substantially encapsulates drinking vessel. The sidewall defines multiple slots extending along the longitudinal in a spaced-apart, parallel relationship. The slots enable passage of elastic cords that crisscross therethrough. The cords are pulled down towards the base end of the sidewalls to firmly secure the vessel holder to the watercraft.