In our last post, we discussed some of the safety parameters that boating with kids requires. Whether your child is old enough to run around the boat and swim in the surrounding water or needs constant supervision, there are a few extra considerations to be made before taking kids out on the open water. As such, we are going to go a bit deeper into ensuring the safety of everyone on board, especially when it comes to the little ones. Before heading out, however, ensure your boat is secured with a comprehensive Boat Insurance Policy.
Boating with babies.
If you just had a child and can’t wait to take him out on the boat, it’s best to wait until he is at least 18 pounds. It’s understandable that you would be excited to share your passion with your child, but, for safety purposes, it’s best to wait.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office of Boating Safety, an infant should not travel on a boat until they weigh at least 18 pounds and can wear a personal flotation device (PFD). Most babies will reach that weight when they are between 4 and 11 months old.
Although they should not travel on a boat when they are newborn babies, there is no reason why you can’t have a baby on a boat that is docked, anchored or moving slowly (at no wake zone speeds of 6 MPH) as long as the baby is wearing an infant life jacket that is intended for infants under 30 lbs, explains Boater Kids.
A perk of boating with your baby? The fresh air and slight rocking of the boat will likely be comforting to him or her. If you’re taking your baby on the boat for a few hours, be sure to shield their sensitive skin from the sun. Provide ample shade for them and utilize sunscreen, especially if it’s a hot day. If it’s your first time bringing baby on board, consider keeping it short and sweet.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts, and provide Boat Insurance worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at 888-402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
