Boat Trips with Children: How to Make Them Work

A boat trip can be the highlight of a family holiday: dolphins, hidden beaches, a spot of fishing or simply the thrill of being out on the water. It can also be a long few hours if a child feels sick, gets sunburnt or is bored by the second hour. A little planning makes all the difference.

Choosing the right trip

• Match the length to the youngest child. For toddlers and young children, one to two hours is plenty. Half-day and full-day trips suit older children who are already happy on boats.
• Pick a trip with something to do. Children engage far more with a trip that includes a stop: a swim from the boat, beachcombing on a sandbank, a glass-bottom section or a chance to try fishing. A long cruise past scenery rarely holds their attention.
• Think about the boat. Larger boats and catamarans are generally steadier than small speedboats. Check there is shade, somewhere to sit, and a toilet on longer trips.
• Choose a reputable operator. Book through your hotel, the local tourist office or a well-reviewed licensed operator rather than whoever approaches you on the seafront. A good crew gives a safety briefing before you leave.
• For wildlife trips, look for operators who keep a respectful distance from dolphins and whales and don't chase them. It is better for the animals, and a calmer trip too.

Life jackets

Ask when you book whether the operator has life jackets in children's sizes, and check them before you set off. Children's life jackets are sized by weight, and an adult one will not keep a small child safe.

• A well-fitting jacket should not ride up over the chin when you lift it by the shoulders. Crotch straps help stop this on younger children.
• For babies and toddlers, a jacket with a head support and a grab handle is the safest choice. If the operator can't provide one, consider whether the trip is right for now.
• Keep children in their jackets on open decks and smaller boats, even if adults around you aren't wearing theirs.

Avoiding seasickness

• Book early in the morning where you can. In many places the sea is calmer before the afternoon wind picks up.
• Sit in the middle of the boat, low down, where the motion is smallest. Fresh air helps, so avoid stuffy cabins.
• Look at the horizon, not at books or screens.
• Eat a light, plain meal beforehand. An empty stomach and a heavy, greasy breakfast are both best avoided. Pack plain crackers and water.
• Ask a pharmacist before you travel about travel sickness remedies suitable for your child's age, and follow the packet instructions.

Sun and heat

The sun is stronger on the water than it feels. The breeze keeps everyone cool, and light reflects up off the sea, so children can burn quickly even under a canopy.

• Apply high-factor sun cream before you board and reapply after swimming.
• A UV swimsuit or long-sleeved top saves a lot of reapplying.
• Hats with a chin strap stay on in the wind; ordinary sun hats tend to end up in the sea.
• Take more water than you think you will need.

What to bring

• Life jackets, if you have your own for a baby or toddler and the operator allows them.
• Sun cream, sunglasses, hats with straps and a light cover-up.
• Water, plain snacks and a sealable bag for any rubbish.
• Swimwear and a quick-dry towel if there is a swimming stop.
• A warm layer: it can feel chilly on the way back, especially when children are wet.
• A small first aid kit, travel sickness remedies, wipes and a spare set of clothes.
• A waterproof pouch for phones and a little cash for tips or drinks on board.

On board

Set a few clear rules before you leave the harbour: stay seated when the boat is moving, keep hands inside the rails and always tell an adult before moving around. Many crews are happy to show children how the boat works, or even let them take the wheel for a minute in calm water, which is often the part they remember most.

Keep the trip short, sheltered and well stocked, and a boat trip becomes one of the easiest wins of the holiday. For more ideas on keeping everyone happy by the water, see our guide to beach holidays with children and our advice on staying healthy while you are away.