Setting Sail: A Guide to Family Sailing

Sailing with children offers families a unique opportunity to bond. As well as exploring the great outdoors, and creating lasting memories.

However, family sailing can present some challenges. How do you keep your crew safe, entertained, and occupied in a small boat? How do you ensure that sailing is a positive experience for everyone? And, more importantly, that they’ll want to go again, making it the start of a life-long passion?

This guide provides essential tips and insights for families with younger children if you’re planning an unforgettable family sailing holiday.

Choosing the Right Boat

Selecting the right vessel is crucial for a successful family sailing trip. Opt for a stable and spacious boat with adequate safety features. For example, guardrails and life jackets, to ensure the well-being of everyone on board.

If you don't have your own yacht, consider renting a family-friendly yacht or cruiser. Make sure it has amenities suitable for children, such as cabin space, a kitchenette, and bathroom facilities. You could even choose a skippered flotilla holiday to have someone else take the stress away while you focus on quality time with your family.

Planning your Itinerary

Plan your sailing itinerary carefully considering your children’s preferences and comfort. If it’s their first trip, it’s a good idea to choose shorter sailing legs, like island hopping. You should also have plenty of breaks for exploration, swimming, and shore activities.

Make sure there’s somewhere they can let off steam on dry land. Head to destinations with family-friendly amenities. You could visit marinas with playgrounds or sandy beaches with calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

Safety First

Prioritise safety protocols and ensure all family members are familiar with basic safety procedures before setting sail. You should conduct:

• thorough safety briefings, including instructions on wearing life jackets; 
• man-overboard drills; 
• and emergency response protocols. 

Equip the boat with essential safety equipment. This should include first-aid kits, communication devices, and navigation tools. If you’re travelling with young children, consider safety harnesses and safety lines. Choose the appropriate time of year, during the sailing season, to avoid bad weather and conditions.

Engage Children in Sailing Activities

Encourage the children to participate in sailing activities to foster their interest and confidence on the water. Assign age-appropriate tasks. For example, hoisting sails, steering the boat under supervision, or helping with mooring lines. Engage children in interactive learning experiences, such as: 

• identifying marine wildlife; 
• navigating using charts; 
• assisting with steering; 
• observing using the VHF radio; 
• or learning basic knots.

Pack Accordingly

Pack essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience. Include clothing suitable for changing weather conditions. This could include sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure. Bring along ample snacks, drinks, and meals to keep everyone energised throughout the journey.

Don't forget to pack entertainment options to keep children entertained during downtime. This could be things like books, games, or waterproof toys. If you or your family are prone to the dreaded sea sickness, consider packing some remedies such as tablets, patches or acupressure bands.

Embrace the Adventure

Embrace the spirit of adventure and create memorable experiences for your whole family. Around the UK, you can plan your own route and explore hidden coves, quaint coastal villages, and historic landmarks. Encourage children to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Whether that's spotting seabirds, collecting seashells, or watching breath-taking sunsets from the deck.

Respect the Environment

Instil a sense of environmental stewardship in children. Teach them to respect the marine environment and wildlife. Emphasise the importance of responsible boating practices. For example, avoiding pollution, minimising waste, and respecting wildlife habitats. Encourage the children to participate in beach clean-ups or marine conservation initiatives. In doing this they can contribute to preserving the beauty of our oceans and coastlines.

Family sailing holidays in the UK offer unparalleled adventure, learning, and bonding opportunities amidst stunning coastal landscapes. By following these tips and guidelines, you and your family can embark on safe, enjoyable, and memorable sailing experiences with your children, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

So, hoist the sails, chart your course, and set off on an unforgettable family sailing adventure in the beautiful waters of the UK.