Sailing with a baby
Sounds impossible, but is actually quite great and doable!
We speak from experience because our little mouse was the first time on the boat at the age of 6 months, and it was wonderful.
Babies don’t have a sense of balance yet, so there is no risk of seasickness. There is a lot for the little ones to see, and also the rocking makes them quite “peaceful” 😉 Parents will definitely understand what we mean here.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Medipack – Have your pediatrician put together an emergency kit (you won’t need it, but it makes you feel great to have everything with you :))
- Suitable life jacket (really good research is recommended here and don’t skimp. Because if the weather ever calls for a life jacket, baby should be happy and comfortable wearing it. We are happy to recommend one – just write us a message – however, we do not want to make an official advertisement here :))
- Baby seat to transport the baby safely on the boat – Most baby seats are easy to attach to the boat and are a popular spot to feed the baby (if it is already eating porridge), put the baby down (if it is not a baby seat hating, body contact fixated child – like ours ;)) or just let the baby enjoy the view while you do a sailing maneuver.
- Enough baby food (breastfeeding has proven to be extremely practical here ;), but pre-milk is also quite easy to mix on the boat) – And ready-made jars of porridge are also quite great, as they do not need to be refrigerated and can therefore be easily stowed.
- Sunscreen with a high protection factor and headgear – Be sure to bring, baby skin is very sensitive, but you probably already know that 😉
- Possibly, a travel crib – here it depends on the space. On a catamaran is enough, on a monohull is recommended to leave the bed rather at home 😉
- Belly carrier – for babies like ours, who wanted to sleep NOWHERE but on mommy. You have your hands free, the baby is safely stowed, and parents and child can enjoy the trip.
- Fall out protection for a safe place to sleep, so you can let baby sleep downstairs without feeling guilty while you enjoy your baby-free time upstairs.
If you have these things on board and pay attention to them, nothing can go wrong, and you will see, it will be an unforgettable, wonderful trip!
Stay calm, every Marinero will be excited and courteous to see a mini sailor. Possibly, you will also be treated A LITTLE preferentially, but find out for yourself!