Cruising Indonesia with Kids is a wonderful experience. As with any small or big excursion one plans with kids, you undergo a process of preparing, traveling and enjoying the destination. You have to take precautions and be vigilant while still giving your kids space to learn and play. The most important thing to have is a positive attitude about exploring Indonesia with your small ones. Kids love the Pirate Life, and on a traditional Schooner, they can experience exactly that. They adapt rapidly to the new environment on a boat and it’s a great experience for them and a contribution to their personal development.
Traveling is a passion. Most people start traveling while they are not yet parents, and even then, it can feel scary sometimes to explore unknown destinations and set out into the world. Traveling with children adds a whole new dimension to the picture. You might think, bringing your toddlers along, seems impossible, but it is not. As it’s common to say; “Seeing the world through children’s eyes is the purest choice one can experience.”
Choosing the right destination to cruise is essential for your and your kids’ comfort. Especially with babies and toddlers, a calm cruising area with mild waves is best. The Secret Gili Islands in South Lombok are a perfect spot for families with young children. Reaching these Islands requires no additional flights from Bali, and there are plenty of sandy beaches with calm and shallow water to play in. Sailing Komodo National Park is another great destination for cruising through Indonesia with Kids.
The right boat for your cruising adventure does not have to be the most luxurious one. However, when cruising Indonesia, enough space and some western facilities often make life on board more comfortable for everybody. When you choose a boat for cruising Indonesia, – especially with kids, – make sure the yacht has all the necessary safety equipment. Life rafts, life jackets in kids sizes and radio are a must.
Check safety conditions such as the railing. Is it high enough for your kids and are spaces in-between poles too big? Sailing in Indonesia with kids can be great fun for everybody involved. A family-friendly crew is important. Our Barefoot crew members love having children on board. To get the best out of your cruise, share the boat with like minded people who take the needs of kids into consideration. However, it is recommended to charter a private yacht when cruising in Indonesia with kids. A group of 4 – 10 friends or family members, including the children, is perfect for the unique cruising adventure.
Listen carefully to the boat briefing at the beginning of the cruise. The engine room is one of the typical caution zones. Guests, especially kids, must not enter. Stairs and ladders may be taken with great caution, facing backward. The sundeck on many boats doesn’t feature a handrail. Hence, you have to take special caution and direct supervision when in this area. Especially at nighttime and during navigation. For young kids, an adult may be required to stay with the kid on board during activities, such as snorkeling or scuba diving.
Children can try scuba diving or even take a junior open water diver course from the age of 11. The certificate will be automatically upgraded to regular open water diver when turning 15. Indonesia is one of the best destinations in the world for diving. Cruising Indonesia is a great way to introduce your kids to scuba diving, especially if you already dive yourself or are about to learn it. Moreover, it is fantastic to have common interests with your kids for future holidays.
The crew members of Barefoot Yachts are professional, dedicated and friendly people. We are committed to provide honest and tailor made recommendations for choosing the right boats when travelling with your family. Furthermore, we offer customized routes suitable for kids and families.