Tips for Yachting with Kids
Many parents hesitate to take their kids on a boat due to safety concerns. However, if you make sure these five items are taken care of, you will have less to worry about.
Talk to Your Child
The first step is to let your child know what’s happening. A child’s first trip on any boat (yacht or not) is exciting. They will often be eager to run around and check out the yacht. You should let them know that running around and getting into things is not necessarily smart and that they could get hurt. You don’t want to scare them, as they won’t enjoy the trip as much, but just let them know that caution is needed.
Ask for Life Vests
The second step is to talk with the Captain or crew of the yacht about life vests for the kids. Putting a life vest on a child is one of the best ways you can ensure their safety, especially if they fall overboard.
Protect Them From the Elements
We’ve written before about dealing with the elements while on a boat, and this is even more true for children than for adults. Children’s skin is more sensitive to the effects of the sun and wind. Make sure you pack sunscreen and bring layers to make sure your child has adequate protection.
Stock up on Medication
Other things to prepare for are seasickness, headaches, or other ailments. The things that normally bother your child may be even worse while at sea. Make sure you stock up on medication that your kid might need. Afterall, you can’t just run to the drug store in the middle of your yachting trip.
Entertainment
Another thing to consider when bringing kids on a yacht is that they can become easily bored. You’ll want to set up a play area for them and think up some fun games to play. A great place for a play area is in an indoor area. That way they can spread out and play safely. Eventually they might get tired of playing inside or they may want to see what’s going on outside. This is a great time to explain what you’re seeing, engage them in whale or fish watching, or even trying a game of I spy.
The bottom line is that kids can go on a yacht as long as you take safety precautions and make sure they have something to keep them occupied.
