They say—real luxuries in life are whatever that suits you. That could mean a quiet evening with a good book for one person, a thrilling adventure in a foreign land for another, and absolute opulence for someone else.
But for young families that enjoy holidaying at sea? Real luxury for them means chartering a catamaran and sailing off into the sunset with their little one.
It’s a picture of idyllic family bliss: swaying gently on the water, the warm sun on your skin, and your little one happily splashing in the waves. Such a perfect picture can make even the most seasoned traveler swoon. It’s easy to see why Marissa Willman, a contributor to Business Insider, took her eight-month-old on a cruise.
Sailing with your little one could be a magical experience, but it could also make you uneasy. Don’t worry, though. Here, we’ll share a few tips that will make cruising with a baby an adventure you’ll cherish forever.
#1 Get a Life Jacket for Your Infant
Yes, even the tiniest passengers need one. Even if you’re just cruising around calm waters, accidents can happen. Your little one might wiggle free from your grasp or slip and fall overboard.
A properly fitted life jacket will give them that extra layer of protection. When you’re searching for a life jacket for your little one, Safe Kids Worldwide advises choosing one that is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). It should be labeled as “Infant PFD”—a personal flotation device.
According to The ZAC Foundation, you should also look for features like a heads-up flotation pad and a strap that goes between the legs. The latter will prevent the jacket from sliding up.
Fit is everything. Make sure it fits snugly but is not too tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the jacket and your baby’s chest.
#2 Pack DIY Sea-Friendly Baby Foods
Canned baby food for a long trip can get heavy and space-hogging. The solution? DIY baby food that is simple, portable, and perfect for life at sea.
Opt for easy-to-mash fruits and veggies like bananas, avocados, or sweet potatoes. These require minimal prep and can be stored without hogging fridge space.
For a bit more variety, blend up batches of purees before your trip. Freeze them in small portions—silicone molds work great. You can store them in your onboard freezer. As the days pass, you can thaw what you need for a fresh, mess-free meal.
Is your baby exploring finger foods? Soft fruits, such as diced mango or watermelon, or steamed veggies would be great.
#3 Baby-Proof the Boat
Catamarans aren’t exactly built with babies in mind. You need to make sure the boat is as safe as possible for your little explorer.
Practical Boat Owner says that netting helps keep babies safe on board. It will prevent little ones from slipping through or tossing toys overboard. So, add netting to your boat. This simple upgrade will create a barrier that will provide you with peace of mind while your baby crawls around.
Multihull mesh nets are ideal for baby-proofing catamarans. These durable, UV-resistant nets can be installed across open spaces, like between hulls, to provide additional safety.
Not only do they keep your baby secure, but they also prevent items from falling into the water. Thus, they are a practical choice for family sailing trips.
Finding the right net is important, however. According to Sunrise Yacht Products, you must consider four things when selecting a multihull mesh net. That includes strength, openness, appearance, and cost. Rest assured, you won’t make a wrong choice.
In addition, don’t forget to secure loose items that could fall or roll during sailing—babies are curious and quick to grab anything within reach.
Use baby gates to block off access to stairs or less secure areas. Also, add padding to sharp edges or corners. If you have cabin doors, install latches to keep them securely closed.
#4 Hire a Skipper
Your sailing skills must be top-notch. But when there is a baby with you, managing the boat can be difficult. Switching between parenting and sailing duties is not easy.
When there is a professional skipper to steer the boat, you can focus on your family and enjoy the journey. No more worrying about charts, tide or tidal currents, or potential hazards.
Skippers are not just experienced sailors, but also local experts. They know the best spots to anchor, the hidden coves, and the local marine life. They can even recommend some amazing snorkeling or diving spots.
Just make sure to choose a skipper who is family-friendly and has experience working with parents and young children.
Cruising with a baby might not be the carefree escape you envisioned pre-parenthood, but it can be even better. After all, what could be better than introducing your little one to the wonders of the sea?
Sure, there is some extra planning involved. But watching your little one gaze at the endless blue sea or giggle at the feel of the ocean breeze will make it all worth it.