We have a brand new member in the family…a 24′ Duckworth Offshore fishing boat! Stay tuned for our first official family voyage (and photos!)…which I’m sure I’ll be sharing on Instagram first (you can follow here)! Until then, I wanted to share some really important tips for boating with kids…especially since June was National Safety Month.
Before you even set foot on the dock, it’s incredibly important to be prepared, even if you only plan on being out on the water for a short time. Conditions can easily change and unexpected occurrences are bound to happen periodically. The following checklist is a quick reference guide to stay efficient, safe and happy!
Boating is a great way to spend time on the water, but finding boats for sale that are for sale can be challenging. It’s easy enough to find a number of boats for sale by private parties – it’s harder to find bargains that fit your budget and need. When you have a purpose for owning a boat, however, it becomes easier to locate boats for sale that you can afford, offer good returns on investment, and are in good condition. One of the best ways to find these boats is through Zeboats.com
9 Really Important Tips When Boating With Kids
- Have a lifejacket on board for all passengers (we like to bring a couple extra, as well). Washington state law requires children ages 12 years and younger to wear a Coast Guard approved lifejacket or vest on vessels less than 19 feet long. You can reference the Coast Guard’s How To Choose The Right Lifejacket guide for further info.
- Make sure your first aid kit is stocked and up-to-date. Toss anything expired or purchase a new one. I like the Coleman Sportsman Waterproof First Aid Kit because the case is waterproof, floats and glows in the dark.
- Bring sunscreen! Even if it’s an overcast day, the water’s reflection is bound to cause rosy cheeks. We use Blue Lizard which I talked about in this post, as well!
- Limit alcohol intake. When operating any boat (motor or non-motor), it’s important to refrain from drinking – especially with kids on board.
- Always bring an extra set of clothes, a warm jacket and swimsuit (for fun!). This goes along with towels, we like to have one for each person on board…also helps dry wet seats!
- Load up a snack bag and cooler with a variety of options – keeps everyone happy and able to enjoy time on the water longer.
- Bring more water than you think. It’s imperative to stay hydrated, especially on warm days. Fill everyone’s water bottle and grab a couple extra gallon jugs to ensure no one goes thirsty!
- Take or bring motion sickness prevention medicine. It’s always a good idea to have on board, especially for kids or the possibility of rough waters. Even the most veteran boaters can get a bit nauseous from time to time. Consider the non-drowsy Dramamine made with ginger.
- Ensure you have complete coverage with boat insurance. Home insurance from COUNTRY Financial® automatically provides coverage for your watercraft up to $1,500. If you have a boat or other watercraft worth more than that, you can purchase additional boat insurance coverage on your home policy. You’ll receive coverage for your boats, motors, trailers, boating accessories. Definitely check out the coverage options on the COUNTRY Financial® website!
*COUNTRY Financial® also has an App for easy access to your policy!
So what do you think we should name the boat? I’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments!
Save this post for later and pin the image below!
Stay travel obsessed!
XoXo Portia
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. The opinions expressed here represent my own, which I take great pride in providing pure honesty…because I’m OBSESSED with sharing the Good!