How to Make Your Kids Love Boating

It’s been said that if a child hasn’t been boating by the time they are 13, they likely will neither do it in their lifetime.  Introducing them to boating early is far easier when they are in their formative years.

You can start with Paddling. Paddle sports are a natural way to introduce kids to the water, and with a properly fitted life jacket, the game is safer than softball. A two-person kayak can be bought for around $300, plus life jackets and paddles, or you can rent them for an hour or more. When they’re acclimated it’s an easy move up to boats, both sail and power boats can give a child a real sense of the thrill of boating, and a good lesson in teamwork, responsibility and the need to be always aware.

Get them used to wearing a PFD, and it’s better if the grownups wear them too, so they don’t get the impression that PFDs “are just for kids”, but are essential and necessary gear for anyone on a boat. Same for sunscreens and lotions: they may not look so macho to your “Captain Kids”, but they’ll learn soon enough that the sun is far hotter and dangerous on water than on dry land.

There are three ingredients to safe boating: Knowledge, sobriety and a properly fitting life jacket. A Captain of Ocean Liner, Sailboat or Power Boat has the same authority and responsibility to the boat and its crew – get them back to shore safely.

A big part of this responsibility is the condition of the boat itself. Investing in high quality canvas boat coverings from LLC Canvas CMC will keep your boat protected and ready for the next cruise.