Bonjour lecteurs! Looking for something a bit différent next summer? I got to enjoy a solo sailing adventure this year, and I absolutely LOVED it! Now more than ever, I want to go back with the boys. Looking at summer holiday options? Here is how to plan a comfortable sea adventure with kids.
Book the Right Boat
So I looked into it, and out of all the options, I fancy Dubai. Listings for yachts for rent in Dubai look the same at first glance. They feature a white hull, sunset, and lots of champagne.
But with your family, you need to think a bit broader.
First, you need some shade on the deck so that they can have a nap away from the sun.
Safety is le plus important! So you bring coast guard-approved vests fitted to your child’s exact weight. They won’t fit in a bulky adult one! Look for models with crotch straps and grab handles on the collar for quick retrieval.
When you rent a yacht with kids, ask for the whole-boat price. Per-person rates add up fast. A decent yacht rental company will give you the number straight away and tell you how many small people actually fit.
Also check carefully what is included in the price: bed sheets, towels, and whether there is equipment on board for you to explore. Do you have to pay extra for drinks and food, or is it all included?
Best Times To Set Sail
Une autre question that is often overlooked is at what time you should sail.
Go for an early morning or late afternoon sailing. This way, you avoid the harsh midday heat, rough afternoon winds, and disrupted nap schedules.
What You Need To Pack.
When sailing with children, there are a couple of extra bits you need to pack:
- Child life jackets (check sizes before you leave)
- Sunscreen, the reef-safe kind, plus hats that tie under the chin
- Cucumber sticks, crackers, one squashed banana, nothing that melts
- Water, double what you planned
- Spare clothes and swim nappies
- Ginger biscuits, just in case
- Extra muslin for spillage, etc
Before The Engine Starts
You can never be too careful when you go on a boat trip with kids.
Always ask to see the operator’s licence and insurance before you depart.
Double-check the life jackets. Make sure the kids have tried them on to make sure they fit them perfectly.
It’s also worth practising boat rules with them beforehand. Remind them that you never run on the deck!
As a rule, one adult should always be in charge. So leave your phone and watch the kids. If they are out on the deck, I would also ask them to wear a life jacket, just in case.
What Kids Can Do
Once on board, engage them with activities. Hands-on! Let them be part of the sailing fun. Older children can take the wheel or tiller under adult supervision.
You can also teach them basic marine knots like the figure-eight or bowline using spare rope.
Or why not practise navigating and map-reading skills? Ask them to help track the boat’s course on paper charts, spot oncoming traffic, or watch for navigation markers and wildlife.
Water & Beach Fun
Whatever their age and level, kids can also enjoy nautical activities while on board.
- Snorkeling & Swimming: Explore shallow bays, coral reefs, or coastal anchorages with goggles and a snorkel.
- Water Toys: Paddleboard, kayak, or ride on towable boards when anchored in calm water.
- Beachcombing & Island Treasure Hunts: Explore remote shores, collect unique shells, build sandcastles, or search for hidden island treasures like shells and other objects.
A cheeky siesta and a bit of fishing fun can also work wonders. There is so much to do on a yacht!
The next question is: what area will you explore together? Have fun making more memories together.
I can’t wait to hear where you will sail and what you will be up to.
Collaboration
