Boat trips are an excellent way to spend quality time with the whole family. They also offer unparalleled opportunities to destress, slow down, and enjoy quiet moments away from the hustle and bustle of reality. If you’re planning an unforgettable voyage with your loved ones, here are a few valuable tips that can help.
Choose a Family-Friendly Destination
Destination is integral when planning a family boat trip, especially when traveling with children. While you want your vacation to be carefree and relaxing, the dynamics can be more challenging with little kids. Research family-friendly boating destinations that you can realistically explore with the entire family.
Whether you want to sail to the Caribbean, island hop in Croatia, or journey to other picturesque islands, select a destination that ticks off each family member’s vacation interests and preferences.
Explore Boat Options
Another important consideration for boat trips is the vessel you plan to use. Decide early on if you’ll be chartering a boat, booking a packaged tour, or using your own boat. If you prefer the former, find a reputable boat company that provides a wide range of options that suit your budget and boating requirements.
Consider the places and activities that your family prefers, the size of your traveling group, and essential amenities that can make your boat trip more memorable and enjoyable. Choose a provider that prioritizes safety and has proper measures in place.
Prepare Your Boat
If you plan to use your own boat, you must ensure its readiness before departure. Check your boat’s condition and address potential issues that can compromise your family’s safety and comfort. Invest in quality exterior and interior boat lights, test the battery, double-check the water pump, check the oil and fluids, and have it professionally inspected if necessary.
Craft a Simple Itinerary
If this is your first family boat adventure, avoid overloading your schedule and focus on creating precious moments with your family. Choose a day and time with favorable weather, as navigating the open waters can be extremely dangerous during inclement weather.
List the activities you want to experience and places to explore, but be flexible enough to change them. Whether your family wants to snorkel, swim, sunbathe on nearby beaches, or do extreme water sports, a balanced and relaxed itinerary with enough room for spontaneity can make your boat trip unforgettable.
Bring the Essentials
Unlike land trips, packing for a boat trip is more challenging. Since you don’t have the luxury of stopping whenever you want, you must ensure everything you need is on board. Aside from enough food and water for everyone, other essential items include spare clothing, sunglasses, hats, swimsuits, towels, proper footwear, fully-stocked first aid, life jackets, bug sprays, and prescription medications. Pack your kids’ favorite toys or items that bring them comfort and security. In addition, remember to bring the necessary boat title documentation, licenses, and safety certificates.
Endnote
A family boat trip is the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories and strengthen your bond as a family. Follow these essential tips, and don’t forget to document the experience.
Image, Ian Keefe, Unsplash
