Many people don’t consider yacht charters a family-friendly vacation, but simply that’s untrue. Yes, many couples enjoy them for romantic getaways and honeymoons, but they’re also perfect for families.
Kids can live out their fantasy of feeling like a pirate and sailing the ocean blue onboard a luxury yacht. If you’re considering booking a yacht charter with kids, these are the essential things you should know.
The Crew Matters
When spending money on any vacation, you want to ensure everything goes smoothly, especially when you’ll be in close quarters with people for a while. Companies want to ensure that all guests on board have a fabulous time—even the littlest ones.
Choose a yacht charter that enjoys working with kids. They’ll have an understanding that kids are unpredictable, pickier, and noisy. A great kid-friendly crew will plan themed parties, nautical lessons, and fun games to engage the kids and make them feel special. They can make the experience more magical and memorable for your children, which makes all the difference.
Create a Family-Friendly Itinerary
Create a family-friendly itinerary for the entire family. What do your kids enjoy doing? Do they appreciate learning about different cultures? Does one kid love to swim and build sandcastles?
Plan seaside adventures for the younger kids filled with swimming, digging holes in the sand, snorkeling, nature hikes, and spotting interesting wildlife and marine life. Older kids may appreciate more exciting adventures such as surfing lessons, visiting historic sites, scuba diving, and kayaking.
Your yacht broker will be happy to help you plan if you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed. They can help you design the perfect itinerary everyone in the family will love. Brokers know which adventures are worth it and help you book all activities. Don’t forget to leave time for relaxation and family time on the yacht.
Talk to the Kids
Involving your kids and asking for their input will prepare and excite them about the charter. What would their ideal location look like? What places would they like to go to? Are there activities they’d like to try? Asking these questions will help you get a feel of what your kids would like from the vacation.
Opening up the conversation to them will make your children feel special and excited about the trip. It will give them something to look forward to and help them feel involved. Use this time to discuss onboard safety.
Safety Precautions
There are certain safety precautions you’ll need to discuss with the kids. A large yacht will pose hazards they’re not used to, such as a slippery deck, falling overboard, and rocking back and forth. Teach them these rules to keep everyone safe.
- Always listen to the captain.
- Never swim unsupervised.
- Don’t throw things or run onboard.
- Avoid the front of the yacht without adults.
- Stay on the boat and ask an adult if you want to leave the vessel.
Pick the Right Destination
With so many destinations around the world, how do you pick the right kid-friendly place? There are certain destinations more suited for children. You and the family go on adventures and build memories to last a lifetime.
Alaska
Alaska boasts stunning landscapes at every turn. If your family loves being outdoors, Alaska is the place. The family can explore glaciers, go whale watching, hike majestic trails, and go fishing.
Bahamas
The Bahamas provides plenty of kid-friendly adventures. It’s the place to go if everyone loves the water. You can safely swim with nurse sharks, go wakeboarding, and encounter vibrantly colored marine life.
Amalfi Coast
Many people flock to this part of Italy for their honeymoons, but it’s also an excellent family-friendly destination. Everyone will love eating delicious pizza, exploring Medieval castles, and grotto tours. Consider booking a yacht charter to this gorgeous destination if your kids are older.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Your family will find no shortage of beautiful weather and gorgeous views in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The best time to visit this destination is during the late summer. Explore scenic ocean views at Fort Charlotte, find luxurious waterfalls, and go snorkeling at the Tobago Cays.
Sheer Yachting offers St. Vincent yacht charters that are perfect for the family. Browse our website to find the ideal family getaway.
Maine
The northwest corner of America is full of amazing adventures for the family. Take a family hike in Acadia National Park, explore the many museums, and bike ride one of the many trails.
Fun Maine Fact
Maine is where the sun first hits the United States each day.
Pick the Right Vessel
Not all yachts are created equal, and safety is a parental concern while onboard a large vessel. Your charter broker will help you choose which boat best serves your needs.
You’ll want yachts with specific features. Are there gates and netting to prevent children from falling or entering dangerous areas? What will the sleeping accommodations look like? Are there twin or double beds for the children to sleep on? Does the vessel have child-friendly activities onboard?
Most yachts can add childproofing features. You’ll want to ensure each child has a comfortable place to sleep. Everyone needs rest to have energy for the adventures. Ensure the yachts has plenty of water toys and entertainment below the deck for when the kids need a moment to relax. Slides and innertubes are popular choices and are loved by most children.
Have Onboard Entertainment
Sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate with your plans, or you spend the day traveling to the next location at sea. It’s important to look over what the yacht charter has for onboard activities and amenities. The yacht should contain entertainment to keep everyone preoccupied.
What about a space to curl up and watch movies or play video games? Is Wi-Fi included? The crew can also plan activities to help entertain everyone.
Plan your next vacation with a yacht broker like Sheer Yachting. We’re here to help plan the perfect luxury family getaway. Family yacht charters are an excellent way to see the world and make memories. Follow the above tips to ensure a smooth vacation. A yacht broker will help guide you through the entire process. So, what are you waiting for? Book your yacht charter family escape today!
