Vitamin D and a little fun are always in high demand. But, with a baby in the mix, you may be hesitant to hit the open water and go boating. Just like anything else you do with a baby, boating with a baby will require a little extra preparation and attention to ensure you and your family are safe.

Babywearing with a carrier like the Tushbaby is a practical way to go boating with a baby while making it safer and more enjoyable. With the Tushbaby Hip Carrier, you can carry your baby in 4 different carrying positions while keeping one hand free. Plus, it can be used for breastfeeding support! Featuring an open-style hip seat design, it’s ideal for you and your baby, especially in the hot summer sun. These highlights are only the beginning of how Tushbaby can enhance boating with a baby, and other outings like taking baby to the beach.

Ready to learn more about boating with a baby? Here’s what you should know.

Tips for Boating With a Baby

• Is it okay to take a baby on a boat?
• How to safely bring baby onto a boat
• Rules of safe boating with a baby

Is it okay to take a baby on a boat?

Per the recommendation of the Coast Guard, babies shouldn’t travel on boats until they’re the appropriate weight to wear a personal floatation device (aka, a life jacket). There are a variety of personal floatation devices on the market, some for babies as young as two weeks. However, these devices may not be suitable for boating activities. It’s advisable to wait until your baby is 6 months of age or older or weighs 18 pounds or more before taking them boating. Ultimately though, as a parent you can use your judgment to determine what’s best for your baby. 

How to safely bring baby onto a boat

When the time comes and it’s time to bring your baby on board a boat, you’ll want to keep safety top of mind. Here are 9 rules that promote a safer experience when boating with a baby.

Rules of safe boating with a baby

Bring an infant life jacket: In the event of an emergency, floatation devices can save lives. Everyone on board the boat should have a life jacket that fits properly. Before taking your baby on a boat, whether it’s your boat or someone else’s, you should confirm that there’s a lifejacket on board with the proper fit. Infants must weigh at least 18 pounds before a lifejacket can fit properly.

Find a protected area of the boat: Some boats are more ideal for babies than others. As you probably know, babies don’t always like being still. Find a spot on the boat that allows you to sit or stand readily and be mindful of the surroundings. You’ll want the space to be free of objects that could fall or be in the way if you’re moving around. Boating can get choppy, so an area where you can hold on can add an extra layer of safety, especially if you’re babywearing. If your baby is roaming freely, you can follow the same guidelines, but also ensure there are no objects on the ground that could present danger.

Create some shade for the baby instead of using sunscreen: Your baby’s skin is sensitive, as is yours. Finding ways to create shade, whether with a hat or awning, can help protect your baby. If you opt for a hat, be sure it can be secured so it doesn’t get lost in the fun. Dressing your baby in protective swimwear is another smart way to keep them safe from the sun while still being dressed for fun.

Bring baby essentials with you on the boat: As a parent, you know how important it is to be prepared, and boating is no exception. In addition to the standard baby essentials, you may need to bring essentials for nap time, snack time, and other daily routines.

Additionally, you may need to change a diaper or two in a small space. The Totebaby is the ultimate bag of tricks for every mom that can be loaded up with all the essentials, including a foldable changing pad. You likely won’t be able to bring your stroller when boating, so consider bringing along a baby carrier that allows you to babywear and can serve a double purpose as a safe spot to nap. The Tushbaby hip seat carrier features storage pockets to keep essentials nearby and can offer breastfeeding support when baby gets hungry after a nap. When nursing in public or at home, the Tushbaby provides convenient comfort for you and your baby.

Hold baby safely: Holding your baby safely is crucial for you and your baby, and a supportive baby carrier can help you do this. The Tushbaby highlights an ergonomic design that keeps your baby’s hips in the pediatric “M” position with a plush memory foam seat, while offering built-in lumbar support for the wearer to promote proper posture, especially breastfeeding posture.

Prepare for naptime: Nap time is an important part of a good day with a baby, and how you prepare for naptime can depend on the age and preferences of your baby. Nevertheless, be sure you board the boat with what you’ll need to sneak in a nap (or naps) for your baby.

Bring others to help: With a baby, you’ll need all hands on deck, especially when you’re boating. You’ll want to ensure a trusted person has eyes on your baby at all times. Keep in mind, bathroom breaks are often necessary on boats, so you may be put in situations where you have to leave your baby with someone else. Bringing others who are willing to help can make boating with a baby a safer and more enjoyable experience.