Are Safety Nets and Life Jackets Provided for Children on Charters?
Reviewed by Captain Ronald RolleReputable crewed charters provide properly sized life jackets for all children and can install safety netting around deck perimeters upon request. Inform your charter company of each child's age, weight, and height during booking so appropriate safety equipment is prepared before you arrive.
Life jackets are mandatory equipment on all charter yachts, and professional crews ensure every child has a properly fitted personal flotation device. When booking with children, provide exact ages, weights, and heights so the crew can source age-appropriate life jackets in advance.
Many families request safety netting around the deck rails to prevent toddlers and young children from slipping through gaps. This netting installs temporarily and removes easily, providing peace of mind without permanently modifying the vessel.
Beyond life jackets and netting, crews implement additional safety measures including non-slip mats on deck and stairs, padding on sharp corners, and secure storage for hazardous items. A thorough safety briefing at departure covers all onboard protocols.
Children under twelve should wear life jackets whenever on deck, and many families extend this rule regardless of age when conditions are choppy. The crew enforces a simple principle: one hand for yourself, one hand for the boat—teaching children to always maintain a secure grip while moving.
Harnesses with tether lines offer additional security for very young children or rough weather situations. These clip to jacklines running the length of the boat, preventing anyone from going overboard.
Professional crews are trained in water safety and first aid, providing an extra layer of protection. Their experience with families helps them anticipate hazards before they become problems.
Key points
- Provide children's ages, weights, and heights when booking for proper life jacket sizing
- Safety netting can be installed around deck rails upon request
- All children under twelve should wear life jackets when on deck
- Harnesses and tether lines provide extra security for toddlers
- Professional crews conduct thorough safety briefings before departure
Related questions
- Do yacht charters have first aid kits and safety equipment?
- Yes, all charter yachts carry comprehensive first aid kits, fire extinguishers, life rafts, EPIRBs, and VHF radios. Crewed charters also have trained crew members who can respond to medical emergencies and contact help if needed.
- What happens if a child falls overboard?
- Crewed charter crews are trained in man-overboard procedures and conduct drills regularly. The immediate response includes throwing flotation devices, stopping the boat, and executing a recovery maneuver. Prevention through life jackets, netting, and supervision makes incidents extremely rare.
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