Boating families report stronger emotional well-being, greater life satisfaction and improved family connections compared to non-boating households, according to a national study by Impulse Research Corp. for the National Marine Manufacturers Association. “As families increasingly seek ways to disconnect from screens and reconnect with one another, boating continues to emerge as one of the most rewarding recreational activities for parents and children alike,” says Jim Emmons, executive director of the Water Sports Foundation. “From fishing and tubing to simply cruising local waterways, boating offers families a rare opportunity for uninterrupted quality time together.”
Through various interviews with The Water Sports Foundation, experts weighed in with their advice on how to make the most of your family time on the water. “With a little planning, parents can make more fun for kids on the water,” advises Captain Cathy Williams, owner of The Confident Captain. “First and foremost, always create a calm environment on the boat. Patience is particularly important; avoid yelling at all costs.” She encourages parents to start each boating adventure with a crew meeting, identify protocols and give kids simple, age-appropriate taste to help with boating responsibilities.
Lifelong boater and former editor-in-chief of Angler’s Journal magazine Charlie Levine encourages creating an immersive boating and fishing experience for kids, letting them sit at the helm when the motor is off and giving them hands-on instruction with rods and tackle. He reminds adults to protect kids with sunscreen, and keep them regularly hydrated and fed for a fun experience.
Additional tips include always providing/wearing a properly fitting life jacket, maintaining constant adult supervision, turning off the engine whenever swimmers are in the water and before anyone enters the water, and choosing kid friendly boating locations.
“As we celebrate summertime with our families, I hope parents realize they don’t need elaborate vacations or expensive travel plans to create meaningful experiences together,” adds Emmons. “Sometimes, the best memories are made on the boat, just beyond the dock.”
To learn more, visit watersportsfoundation.com.
PHOTO: WATER SPORTS FOUNDATION
