Family Time on the Water
Experts share top tips for Boosting the Fun Factor When Boating with Kids.
Published: Friday, July 10, 2026 9:00 am
Provided by Water Sports Foundation.
Family boating adventures can do more than create fun summer memories — they help children build confidence, strengthen family relationships and develop a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors according to a national study conducted by Impulse Research Corp. for the National Marine Manufacturers Association. It revealed that boating families report stronger emotional well-being, greater life satisfaction and improved family connections compared to non-boating households. Nearly two-thirds of boat owners surveyed said boating helped bring their families closer, while 89% cited being outdoors as one of the biggest benefits of boating.
“As families increasingly seek ways to disconnect from screens and reconnect with one another, boating continues to emerge as one of the most rewarding recreational activities for parents and children alike,” says Jim Emmons, executive director of the Water Sports Foundation. “From fishing and tubing to simply cruising local waterways, boating offers families a rare opportunity for uninterrupted quality time together.”
Captain Cathy Williams of Winter Park, Fla., owns and operates The Confident Captain, a professional coaching and boat driving school. A former professional wakeboard athlete, member of the International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation Hall of Fame and competition-rated towboat driver, Cathy has seen her share of happy boating families. However, she’s also observed how a few common blunders can ruin a day on the water.
“With a little planning, parents can make more fun for kids on the water,” she says. “First and foremost, always create a calm environment on the boat. Patience is particularly important; avoid yelling at all costs.”
“In addition, always start your boating adventure with a crew meeting before leaving the dock,” says Williams. “Explain the plan for the day, identify seating protocols when the boat is underway, and clearly communicate safety rules.”
tags: boating, Cruising, Family, Fishing, kids, National Marine Manufacturers Association, on the water, tubing, Water Sports Foundation, watersport
