Crusing Indonesia with children

Cruising Indonesia with children is a wonderful experience. As with any small or big excursion one plans with children, you undergo a process of preparing, traveling and enjoying the destination. You have to take precautions and be vigilant while still giving your children space to learn and play. The most important thing to have is a positive attitude about exploring Indonesia with your small ones. Children love the pirate life, and on a pinisi yacht, 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 that to bring your toddlers along seems impossible, but, trust us, it is not. As it’s common to say; “Seeing the world through children’s eyes is the purest joy one can experience.”

Play Video about Komodo Yacht Charter Video Nataraja

Destinations for cruising Indonesia with children

Choosing the right destination to cruise is essential for your and your children’s comfort. Especially with babies and toddlers, a calm cruising area with mild waves is the best option. 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 children.

Family Cruise on Nataraja

Choose the perfect boat for your Family Cruise

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 children, – make sure the yacht has all the necessary safety equipment. Life rafts, life jackets in children’s sizes, and a 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 children can be great fun for everybody involved. A family-friendly crew is important. Our Barefoot Yachts Indonesia 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 children into consideration. However, it is recommended to charter a private yacht when cruising in Indonesia with children. A group of 4 – 10 friends or family members, including the children, is perfect for the unique cruising adventure.

Family Charter aboard Aboya in Raja Ampat

On-board safety with children

Listen carefully to the boat briefing at the beginning of the cruise. The engine room is one of the typical caution zones. Guests, especially children, 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 children, an adult may be required to stay with the child on board during activities, such as snorkeling or scuba diving.

Diving for Kids

Children can try scuba diving from the age of 8 and 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 children 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 children for future holidays.

Adventure Evenings during your Cruise

Quick check-list for parents

Packing some extra snacks, not too salty or sweet, is always a good idea – ginger cookies and ginger ale helps with queasy stomachs.
To avoid dehydration, make sure your children drink enough fluids during the day.
Your diaper bag is essential. Bring everything you would normally carry: change of cloth, diapers, lotions, creams, and wipes.
Always carry a first aid kit with you – including antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer.
Remember to bring your children’s favorite toys or some crayons and drawing paper.
Try and keep your children in their comfort zone until they are ready for more. We’ve noticed it’s best not to push children to join any activities whether it be diving, snorkeling, swimming, fishing, or sea kayaking – you can offer options or they will come asking themselves.
Be mindful of caution to take and communicate safety rules in a playful way so as not to worry them.
Know that you can trust the cruise director and captain and do communicate about your children’s activities during the trip – they are professionals and know the boat and cruising area very well.

Land Activities on a Komodo Yacht Charter

Why choose us to cruise Indonesia with your family?

The crew members of Barefoot Yachts Indonesia are professional, dedicated, and friendly people. We are committed to providing honest and tailor-made recommendations for choosing the right boats when traveling with your family. Furthermore, we offer customized routes suitable for children and families.