Tips for Boating with Kids

Tips for Boating with Kids
Boating with kids can be a great way to spend time together and create lasting memories. Who knows, you might even pass on your love of boating to the next generation! The following tips from Central Georgia Marina will help you plan a great boating experience with your kids.
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Getting Ready
Going boating with kids requires a bit more planning and preparation. First, you want to make sure your kids know what to expect. Consider finding some age-appropriate books or videos about boating to share with your children. They will enjoy the experience a lot more if they are prepared for it!
It's also a good idea to make sure your kids are proficient swimmers before taking them out on the water. This will give your kids more confidence, and give you some peace of mind!
Either way, you should explain all the basics of boating safety to your kids, and stress the importance of wearing a life jacket at all times – even if they are capable swimmers.
Packing for the Trip
If you have ever packed for a road trip with your kids, you probably have some idea of how to pack for a boating trip. Just remember that you won't have the option to pull over at a convenience store when someone gets hungry! So, make sure to bring plenty of snacks and drinks your kids will enjoy.
You are also going to want an ample supply of sunscreen, and a change of clothes (or two) for each kid. If your kids have short attention spans (as most of them do), then it's a good idea to bring some toys and games to keep them entertained.
Before you set out, make sure your boat is fully stocked with safety equipment. At a bare minimum, you should have a fire extinguisher, signal flares, a first-aid kit, a VHF radio, and life jackets for each passenger.
Having Fun!
You might be more than satisfied with relaxing on the deck of your boat and enjoying the peace and quiet, but your kids are probably going to want more out of their boating experience. Structured activities are the antidote to boredom!
If your kids are little, try catching some small fish or exploring a nearby island. Older kids might enjoy watersports, like kneeboarding and water skiing. You can also cruise over to a great destination for swimming and snorkeling!
We hope you enjoyed this guide to boating with kids. If you need more advice, feel free to ask the team at Central Georgia Marina! We welcome customers all the way from Columbia, SC.