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Memories are created as children get older so spending quality time with them is one of the most important things that any parent can do. Spending time with the kiddos also helps you nurture a deeper relationship with them. But what summer fun family activities will get the whole family excited? Enter catamaran boating!

Boating with your family is an excellent way to create those forever memories. Kids that get out on the water will not only connect them with nature, but connect with everyone in the family as well.

To ensure your next family boating adventure is a memorable, safe success, we compiled a list of boating tips just for you and your family.

Safety Is Your Number One Priority

Having the kiddos on the water means having plenty of safety measures in place. The Coast Guard recommends having whistles and bells, a fire extinguisher, and personal flotation devices aboard when boating.

When it comes to kids, it’s ideal to have life jackets that actually fit and appropriate for the person, or child, wearing them. Here’s a pro parent tip: Have life jackets that are comfortable or cool. If your kiddo has an uncomfortable lifejacket, he or she may want to take it off.

You can never be too careful when your kids are aboard, so make safety a priority. You can also have extra floatation devices, life jackets, and a complete first aid kit at the ready.

Have An Exciting Schedule Of Boating Activities

To prevent your kids from getting bored while boating, plan activities that are fun. This will keep the kiddos engaged during the entire day. Here are some suggestions for the fun boating activities:

Fishing gear for adults and kids
Boat slides
Cool flotation devices (think alligator blow up floaty)
Water skiing, wakeboarding, or tubes
Snorkling (depending on location)

You can even have a pirate theme day where you need to search for treasure. Just be sure to have treasure ready to find, otherwise it may be an upsetting end to the day.

Remember Sun Protection And Motion Sickness

This is often an afterthought, but sun protection and motion sickness pills are very important, especially for the kiddos. Proper sun protection prevents your little ones from getting sunburned, which could ruin their day, and yours.

Be sure to put some sunscreen on the kids multiple times throughout the day, to keep them protected after swimming sessions. Try to also create a bit of shade, whether it be hats, sunglasses, or staying under a boat canopy. If you are going the boat rental route, ask for a boat with a canopy so you have a place to hide from the sun when needed.

Your kids may suffer from seasickness once the boat starts to head out to sea, or lake, and this is a normal occurrence. This is common especially for your first time boaters. There’s medication, like Dramamine to the rescue if seasickness strikes.

This usually works for adults too, but it’s best to talk to your doctor to ensure all medication is safe for your kiddos. There are alternative substitutes that are great for kids too, but always consult your doctor.

Do You Have Newborns? Boating Safety For Newborns

Newborns are not really supposed to go boating. This is because there are normally no life jackets that would fit a newborn. Boats, kayaks, fishing boats, sailboats, canoes, and even row boats are off the list for new born babies.

A boat with an open deck is not seen as safe for a newborn, but it does happen. This goes back to the safety issue. If your little bundle of joy can’t be bundled up in a lifejacket, it’s best to skip boating. Life jackets will have size and weight guidelines on them, so be sure to check.

Have you ever seen a baby on a boat in a car seat? This actually happens, but shouldn’t. If a boat flips and a baby is in a car seat, they are essentially strapped to an anchor. If you absolutely must take your newborn or baby boating, keep them out of a car seat and in the arms of mom or dad instead. Never operate a boat and hold a baby at the same time.

It Begins With Parents . . .

Safe and legal boating changes, depending on different aspects, but ultimately, it all begins with parents. Get education on boating safety and get a boating license to ensure you have the knowledge to make your next family boating adventure safe and successful. Be a mentor to your kids while boating as well. Wear life jackets, teach your kiddos boating tips, and make the experience fun.