How to encourage your children to get into boating

As a father, grandfather and keen boater, I’ve always believed the best way to pass on our love for the water is to get young people experiencing the thrill of boating early on. Kids learn fastest when they’re having fun, so the aim is to make those first trips exciting, safe and inclusive.

Start with water confidence

The first step is simple: before heading out, make sure the children can swim confidently and feel at ease in the water. Many local sailing clubs and schools run training sessions and holiday clubs where they can learn the basics of boat handling with friends their own age. Capsize drills, rigging and on-the-water games help them respect the water without fearing it. And if they enjoy those first sessions, their skills and enthusiasm grow naturally from there.

Taking the helm: literally and figuratively 

Involve them from the moment you step aboard. No hiding below deck — let them help with pre-departure checks, starting the engines or talking through how you’ll leave the marina. Ask their thoughts on wind and tide; you’ll be surprised how often young minds spot things we miss. Treat them as part of the crew from the start. I’d even add an extra, load-free shoreline so they had a job to do. Once underway, let them steer. My youngest grandson took the wheel at five — he didn’t know the autopilot was on, but the grin said it all. For older children, set simple challenges: who can hold the straightest course for five minutes? A chart plotter or even the wake will show how they did.

Keeping it fun & engaging for kids 

On sailing yachts, involve them in everything — from raising sails to grinding winches, with supervision. Give tasks that match their age and ability, gradually increasing responsibility as their confidence grows. Games, challenges and small duties keep them engaged. And fun isn’t just on the boat — paddleboards, inflatables or an electric dinghy can turn downtime at anchor into hours of entertainment.

Kit, comfort & safety 

Safety is non-negotiable, but comfort matters too. Swap bulky buoyancy aids for automatic lifejackets when they’re big enough, and kit them out in proper sailing gear so they feel part of the crew. Go through lifejacket checks together — from weight and expiry to straps, buckles and inflation. Keep early trips short, choose fun destinations, and avoid bad weather to reduce seasickness. And if things go wrong, stay calm — children pick up on your emotions instantly.

The next generation: Boatgen 

If you want to introduce young people to life on the water, Boatfolk’s Boatgen programme is a brilliant way to get them hooked. In partnership with The Andrew Simpson Foundation, Boatgen offers activity days with on- and off-water skills, youth sailing teams and an ambassador scheme — helping kids gain skills, make friends, and feel part of a passionate community of young boaters.