How to Keep Kids Entertained at Sea in Confined Spaces

One of the worries that we often hear from parents considering a yacht charter is how they will keep their kids entertained in a confined space.

This really is not something to worry about and most kids love being on a yacht. However, here are some tips to help you keep your kids entertained.

Use it as an Educational Experience

One of the best things you can do onboard with your kids is to use the time as an educational experience. Teach them how a yacht works, how to navigate, steer, hoist the sails and the millions of other things that go along with sailing a yacht.

For older kids, talk about radar, sea depths, how people navigated before electronics. Younger kids can learn about the fish and birds that you see. You can discuss the geography of the places you are visiting. The learning opportunities are endless.

Bring Toys and Books

A yacht may be a confined space, but there is usually plenty of storage for some toys and books. Get your kids to bring their favourites, but also bring a few new ones that you can gradually bring out over the length of your charter. This can be a great way to keep boredom at bay and the items do not have to be big or bulky. Just a roll of stickers can work very well for younger kids or a new game for the iPad for older ones.

Watch TV

Most yachts come complete with TV, DVD player, playstation etc so this is also an option. This can be a great way for everyone to unwind at the end of the day or for young ones that need some quiet time. Again, I recommend gradually bringing out new DVDs or playstation games over the course of your charter to keep things interesting.

In addition to this, take along a DVD or game that will get the kids moving in a manner that is appropriate for a yacht. For example, there is a simple, dancing-on-the-spot Nickelodeon game which will keep the kids entertained and help them expend some energy while you are onboard.

Take a Pack of Cards

A pack of cards may seem old fashioned these days but they are still a great source of entertainment and a great way for the family to spend quality time together. You can teach each other your favourite games, make card houses and see who can build the tallest one. There are lots of possibilities. To keep it interesting, you could also have some sweets on hand for the winner.

Road Trip Games

If you have ever taken a road trip then you probably have some talking games up your sleeve. These games generally work very well at sea as well so get ready to play some I spy or whatever else your kids enjoy. Here are some suggestions.

Have a Scavenger Hunt

Write a list of items that your kids have to find onboard or in their surrounds – It might just be sighting a certain type of bird for example. This can be fun and educational. Choose  a mixture of items that your kids already know and some they will have to learn.

As you can see, there are many ways to keep your kids entertained on a yacht charter. These are just some! Have a great trip!