A Guide to Sailing with Kids
When schools close for the summer and your children have had enough screens and schedules, sailing with kids is a rewarding outdoor pastime for the whole family. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when you bring children onboard. Here are some tried and true tips to ensure everyone has a blast sailing while staying safe:
Safety First!
The chief consideration for every sailor is safety. This is even more important when sailing with kids.
- Life jackets are essential to your child’s safety, and it is recommended that children wear life jackets at all times while on the water. Life jackets must also fit properly and be appropriate for the size of the child.
- Before climbing on board, adults should have a focused conversation with their children to discuss rules on the boat, for example, that they cannot lean overboard. It is important that adults set a good example by following their own rules too!
- Safety nets can usually be installed on the front and sides of the boat to prevent children from falling overboard. Ask your charter or boat rental agency about this in advance because installing them can be time-consuming.
- Sign your kids up for swimming lessons. Studies consistently agree that swimming lessons significantly reduce the risk of drowning.
- Plan to keep your kids entertained to keep them from getting themselves into trouble. Little ones have short attention spans which can be a challenge in a confined space like a sailboat. Restless kids will benefit from activities like I-Spy to keep them from getting bored.
Be Prepared!
A little extra packing goes a long way when sailing with kids. Activities such as games and coloring books will combat boredom. Make sure to bring enough food so that no one becomes grumpy, bearing in mind that the sun and physical activity will increase appetites. Likewise, make sure your boat’s first aid kit is well stocked, and bring medicine for motion sickness and headaches.