Top Activities for Kids on a Sailing Charter

Worried about keeping your kids entertained while sailing? Worry no more. There are plenty of sailing activities for kids that turn a yacht holiday into a floating playground. Here are our top picks to make the journey fun, educational, and unforgettable.

1. Junior Captain Challenges

Kids love to be involved. Teach them how to tie knots, steer the wheel under supervision, or raise the sails. These hands-on sailing activities for kids build confidence and curiosity.

2. Snorkeling & Underwater Exploration

Drop anchor in a calm bay and let the little ones discover marine life. Equip them with small snorkel sets and introduce fish charts for fun marine “spotting missions.”

3. Treasure Hunts Onboard

Hide small toys, shells, or clues around the yacht. Use a treasure map to create an exciting mini-adventure right on deck. It’s one of the best sailing activities for kids under 10!

4. Beach Games on Remote Islands

Once docked or anchored, let them run wild. Sandcastle contests, beach volleyball, shell collecting—it’s island life at its finest for young sailors.

5. Creative Corner at Sea

Stock a basket with travel-friendly art supplies: sketchbooks, markers, watercolors. A shaded cockpit makes the perfect sea-view art studio.

6. Fishing from the Stern

Even toddlers enjoy the thrill of catching their first fish. Simple rods and lines are perfect for sailing breaks in calm waters.

Continue the Adventure

Want more ideas for a full week with kids at sea? Read What to Pack for a Family Sailing Trip to get prepped.

Trusted Resource

Need help keeping kids safe during water activities? Explore the RNLI Youth Education Hub—a fantastic UK-based resource for teaching water safety to kids.

With the right activities, a sailing charter becomes a magical childhood memory. Let us help you plan it today.