Yacht Charter with Children — Family Charter Guide

Rates: €12,000–€40,000/wk

Rates: €20,000–€80,000/wk

Rates: €35,000–€150,000/wk

Rates: €5,000–€20,000/wk

Flat Sir Francis Drake Channel, excellent snorkelling, swimming pigs at Jost Van Dyke, shallow crystal-clear water. Short passages (30–90 minutes between anchorages) keep children from getting bored at sea. The Baths at Virgin Gorda is spectacular for older children.

Note: Hurricane season (Jun–Nov)

Calmer than the Cyclades (Meltemi doesn't reach here). Levkas, Kefalonia, Zakynthos offer sandy beaches and shallow, clear water. Turtle spotting at Zakynthos. Historic Venetian port towns accessible by tender.

Note: Cyclades with young children in July–August (Meltemi)

Crystal-clear water, numerous sandy beaches. Split, Hvar, and Dubrovnik offer historic attractions for older children. Relaxed marina culture with good provisions. Kornati National Park for snorkelling.

Note: Peak July/August — marinas crowded

Swimming with nurse sharks at Compass Cay (completely safe, thrilling for children 6+). Pig Beach. Ultra-shallow sandbars in vivid turquoise water. Short passages between islands.

Note: May–November (Atlantic hurricane risk)

Best for older children interested in culture. Pompeii day trips, Amalfi town, volcanic Stromboli island, Sicilian food. More passages and some swell — not ideal for toddlers.

Note: Under 6 if prone to seasickness

What is the best type of yacht for a family with children?

A sailing or power catamaran (18–26m) is the most family-friendly vessel type: zero heel underway, large flat deck for children to move safely, separate hulls that isolate noise at night, and shallow draft for beach anchoring. For families wanting more space and faster passages, a 35–45m motor yacht with a wide swim platform, beach club, and dedicated water toy inventory is the premium family option. Avoid performance sailing yachts — the heel, deck gear, and confined layout are not suitable for children under 10.

What age can children go on a yacht charter?

There is no minimum age requirement in the MYBA contract framework. Infants and toddlers charter successfully — the key variables are the vessel type (catamaran stability preferred for under 5s), the charter route (calm protected waters vs open sea passages), and crew experience with children. Some owners specify a minimum age (typically 3–5) in their preference for the vessel's condition. Always declare children's ages when booking — crew prepare accordingly with child safety equipment, harnesses, and age-appropriate activities.

Is a yacht charter safe for children?

Yes, with appropriate precautions. Safety measures: life jackets and harnesses in child sizes (most crews carry these or can arrange them), netting fitted to stanchions and lifelines to prevent falls overboard, non-slip deck surfaces, crew trained in first aid and CPR. The captain will conduct a safety briefing on day one specific to children. Inform the crew of swimming ability levels. Children under 12 should wear life jackets whenever on deck at sea.

What activities are available for children on a yacht charter?

Most charter yachts carry water toys appropriate for children: inflatable slides and trampolines, kayaks, snorkelling gear, paddleboards, and a dinghy for beach runs. The chef will prepare child-appropriate meals on request. Crew on family-oriented vessels (request specifically) are experienced with children and will organise treasure hunts, snorkelling lessons, and beach barbecues. In the BVI and Caribbean, the abundance of snorkelling reefs makes even young children enthusiastic. Greece and Croatia offer calm anchorages with shallow water ideal for families.

What should I tell the crew before a family charter?

Before the charter, submit a preference sheet including: ages and swimming ability of all children, food allergies and dietary preferences, favourite meals and snacks, nap/sleep schedules for young children, activity preferences, any medical conditions (including seasickness history), and what the children are most excited about. A good crew will adapt the itinerary around children's energy levels — morning passages when children sleep, long afternoon anchorages when they want to swim.

What are the best destinations for a family yacht charter?

Best family charter destinations: British Virgin Islands (flat water, excellent snorkelling, child-safe anchorages, swimming pigs at Jost Van Dyke), Greece Ionian Islands (calmer than Cyclades, numerous sandy beaches, child-safe), Croatia Dalmatian Coast (crystal-clear water, historic towns accessible by tender, calm passages), Bahamas Exumas (swimming with nurse sharks, ultra-clear water, uncrowded), and the Amalfi Coast/Sicily (culture + beaches, suitable for older children). Avoid the Cyclades in July–August — Meltemi winds make conditions rough for young children.