EN
Are you planning your sailing vacation with children?
The catamaran charter is the best solution for the first sailing experience with children.
What do you need to know about sailing with kids?
First of all, a catamaran is more stable than a sailboat, it offers more space and it is easier to walk on it, inside and outside.
However, sailing with children can be a fantastic exciting, and at the same time challenging experience.
It is a great opportunity for kids to learn about sailing, explore other countries and see remarkable nature. Let them drive the boat, let them swim in the open sea, catch a fish by themself or just snorkel in the crystal clear sea. This is a lifetime experience for the kids, even the small children. Kids will love and remember the time spent on sailing vacation.
ENTERTAINMENT
But kids get bored easily and you need to entertain them often. You should consider taking lots of things with you to keep them occupied - things like books, cards, board games and even the tech gadgets (Kindle, tablet) can be a good thing, but try to avoid them if possible. Some catamarans already have board games (karaoke & disco ball set) on board or have water toys and equipment like snorkeling gear, fishing gear, floating mats, wakeboard, water skis, water tube, etc.
SAFETY & HEALTH
Children are curious by nature.
Show and explain to them the important things and where everything is located on the boat before they explore the boat themselves.
Point out the safety rules to them when you board the boat.
Teach them that they are not allowed on the foredeck while sailing and that children must go below deck in bad weather. Everyone must strictly follow the rules for safe boating.
A few safety rules:
- Wear a life jacket
- Keep hands clear of winches
- Take care getting in/out of a dinghy
- Do not jump into the sea while the engines are on
Even though catamarans are best for families with children, you should still take seasickness tablets with you if you are sailing for the first time.
If you are sailing in the summer season, children should wear a T-shirt in the sun and apply sunscreen all the time. Make sure they drink enough water and avoid sweet juices if possible. Being exposed to the sun all day can easily dehydrate you.
If you have younger children, consider adding a safety net. It serves to prevent equipment, toys, or children from falling overboard. However, the best safety measure is parental control.
If you need a safety net, ask for it when you make your reservation. For installation, please ask the charter staff for assistance. Just remember that the skipper/captain and hostess are not responsible for babysitting.
SAILING TIPS
Try to teach the children about sailing, show them instruments, involve them in setting the sails, teach them about the winches or sailor's knots, because they will feel important.
Make sailing routes short and try to stop at interesting places for swimming or just resting for a while. Do not fight the weather. If the day is not a good day for taking a sailing trip, do not sail off, stay in harbor, explore the city or island.
Sometimes it is hard to get the kids to sleep on time. There are so many things to do and the excitement is high, but try to stick to the sleep schedule, especially with young children because no one wants a cranky kid on a boat.
If you are renting a catamaran bareboat (without the professional crew) make sure to bring along their favorite food and snacks to keep them full between meals. This is a great opportunity to taste the new local food but be careful if your kids are allergic to certain food (like seafood).
If you want to make a reservation, please check our catamaran base.