Take a Kid Boating!

Some of your greatest memories with family can be made on the water! There are so many opportunities to enjoy boating in our area. It is so important to have a plan and be prepared for all that comes along with the boating lifestyle. Learning your boat, knowing the safety rules, navigating the waterways and the rules that apply, are a few thoughts you must consider to make your adventure safe and enjoyable for your family.

Stay Safe

Have USCG life jackets, also known as PFD (Personal Flotation Device) for all passengers. Children under 12 should always have a life jacket on in your boat. Know where safety equipment is so you can get to it quickly in case of emergency. (for a safety kit our parts department at Hanckel Marine can help)

Know the Rules

Do not run on the boat, do not hang any limbs over the side or bow of the boat, do not hang over the rail, and do not exit the boat before tying up to the dock.

Know the Boat

Educate your kids on boating terms; bow, stern, port ,starboard. Make a game to see who can remember the parts of the boat!

Pack Your Gear

Sunscreen, hats, towels, rain jackets or ponchos, extra clothes, wipes, a first aid kit, plenty of water and snacks are all necessities when it comes to a day on the water. It is so important to stay hydrated.

Things To Do

Charleston is full of boating activities for kiddos. Pack a lunch for quick picnic on the boat or the beach. Be sure to check out all of the sights to see from the Charleston waterways. Fort Sumpter, The Battery, the beautiful lighthouses, the Yorktown are just a few of the sights that can be seen on your outing.

If you’re needing to get out and play, many areas of the Low Country offer great beaches for the kiddos to stretch their legs, collect shells, catch bait fish in the gullies, and so much more.

For the water loving kid, take a tube or teach them fun water activities.

If you’ve got a fisherman in training, find a creek to throw the cast net for bait then watch them hook their catch with so much excitement.

If its shrimping season, take them with you. Little hands are always helpful picking up the shrimp!

Hanckel Marine is here to help you find the perfect boat for your family’s needs. Remember that LIFE ON THE WATER STARTS HERE!

Keep it fun. Get them involved. These times will create a lifetime full of wonderful memories!

Be sure to send us your photos with your kiddos on the boat: email@hanckelmarine.com.