A boat trip with children is a great family vacation, as long as safety comes first. These are the basics.
Life jackets
Children should wear a life jacket whenever they are on deck or playing around the boat, even if they can swim, and especially if they are not strong swimmers.
- The life jacket must be the right size and fit snugly.
- It should be an approved model with a whistle.
- Ask the charter company in advance for life jackets in your children's sizes, or bring your own, and let the children try them on before you sail.
Supervision and rules
A life jacket does not replace supervision. A responsible adult should watch the children at all times, especially near the water. Agree on clear rules before you set off:
- no leaning over the guardrail or playing near the edge
- stay seated while the boat is moving
- never run on deck
Extra protection
A safety net along the guardrails makes it much harder for a child to fall overboard. Ask the charter company whether they can fit one. And make sure you know where the first-aid kit is and what is in it.
