8 Essential Gear Picks for Kids on a Catamaran Charter

Stepping aboard a cruising catamaran for a family charter is the start of an incredible offshore adventure. Unlike traditional monohulls, these wide, stable platforms offer plenty of deck space for kids to explore and play. Having the right marine-grade gear ensures that your young crew members stay safe, comfortable, and entertained from the first anchorage to the final sail.

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Why Catamaran Charters Require Specialized Gear for Kids

Catamarans present a unique environment for young sailors. With wide-open trampolines at the bow, twin sugar-scoop transoms at the stern, and a high bridge deck, kids have far more room to roam than on a standard sailboat. However, this extra space also means more opportunities for slips, sun exposure, and falls if they are not equipped with gear designed specifically for the marine environment.

Standard backyard pool toys and cheap beach gear simply will not hold up to the harsh realities of saltwater, wind, and constant motion. Saltwater accelerates wear on stitching, while intense tropical UV rays can degrade cheap plastics in a matter of days. Equipping kids with durable, high-performance gear ensures their comfort and frees parents from constantly managing equipment failures.

When kids have gear that fits properly and functions without constant adjustment, they build confidence on the water. Self-reliance is key on a boat, and when a child can easily manage their own footwear, snorkel mask, and safety gear, the entire crew enjoys a more relaxed vacation. Investing in the right items ensures the focus stays on making memories rather than managing gear meltdowns.

Kids Life Jacket – Mustang Survival Rev Young Adult PFD

A high-quality life jacket is the single most important piece of safety gear on any boat. On a catamaran, kids need a personal flotation device (PFD) that they can wear comfortably for hours, whether they are sitting in the cockpit, walking the side decks, or riding in the dinghy. A stiff, poorly fitting life jacket leads to constant complaints and dangerous resistance to wearing it.

The Mustang Survival Rev Young Adult PFD is engineered specifically for active older kids and young teens. It features a unique segmented foam design that contours to the body, allowing for restriction-free movement while rowing, paddling, or winching. The cooling mesh back panel reduces heat buildup against high-backed seats, which is a major comfort factor in warm tropical charter destinations.

• Weight Range: 55 to 88 pounds
• Material: Durable 300D polyester shell
• Approval: Harmonized Level 70 buoyancy aid (USCG and Transport Canada approved)
• Best Uses: Sailing, paddleboarding, dinghy rides, and general deck wear

Before buying, note that this PFD is designed for youth who are already comfortable in the water. It provides excellent mobility but does not feature a heads-up flotation collar to turn an unconscious swimmer face-up. It is perfect for active older kids who need reliable flotation without the bulk of a traditional Type II life jacket.

Kids Water Shoes – Keen Kids Stingray Water Sandal

Catamaran decks get incredibly hot under the midday sun, and molded fiberglass non-skid surfaces can act like sandpaper on soft, wet feet. Wet decks and slick swim platforms also pose a major slip hazard. A dedicated water shoe protects small feet from burns, scrapes, and slips while transitioning from the boat to the shore.

The Keen Kids Stingray Water Sandal is the premier choice for wet-deck traction. It features a non-marking Aquagrip rubber outsole with zonal siping, providing exceptional grip on wet gelcoat without leaving ugly scuffs on the charter boat’s pristine deck. The low-profile, lightweight design uses a TPU upper that resists water absorption and dries almost instantly.

• Closure: Adjustable hook-and-loop strap for easy on/off
• Sole: Non-marking Aquagrip rubber with toe shield protection
• Lining: Quick-dry jersey lining for itch-free comfort
• Best Uses: Wet deck walking, beach landings, and exploring rocky tide pools

Rinse these sandals with fresh water at the end of each day to prevent salt crystals from hardening inside the strap mechanisms. These sandals run true to size, but it is wise to buy them with a snug fit so they do not slip off when wading through sticky coastal mud or swimming. This shoe is ideal for kids who love to jump from the boat to the beach, but it is not meant for heavy hiking inland.

Kids Snorkel Set – Cressi Rocks Kids Mask and Snorkel

Anchoring in crystal-clear water is a highlight of any catamaran charter, and having a reliable snorkel set allows kids to explore the vibrant marine life below. Cheap, poorly fitting rental masks frequently leak, fog up, and cause painful water-in-the-nose experiences that can ruin a child’s confidence in the water.

The Cressi Rocks Kids Mask and Snorkel set features a skirt made of high-quality liquid silicone that molds comfortably to smaller facial profiles, creating a watertight seal. The tempered glass lenses offer excellent clarity and scratch resistance, while the easy-adjust buckles allow for quick fitting even when wet. The dry-top snorkel features a quick-acting valve that seals the tube instantly when submerged, preventing accidental water inhalation.

• Lens Type: Dual tempered glass lenses
• Skirt Material: Soft, hypoallergenic liquid silicone
• Snorkel Design: Dry-top splash guard with purge valve
• Best Uses: Shallow-water snorkeling, reef exploration, and swimming pool practice

To ensure a perfect seal, make sure to pull your child’s hair back from their forehead before putting the mask on, as even a single strand of hair can cause a slow leak. Teach them how to use the bottom purge valve to blow out any water that does manage to slip in. This set is perfect for recreational snorkelers ages 4 to 10 but is not designed for deep-water freediving.

Kids Rash Guard – O’Neill Youth Basic Skins UPF 50+

The reflection of the sun off the water and the white fiberglass of a catamaran doubles the UV exposure on young skin. Applying and reapplying greasy sunscreen to squirming kids throughout the day is exhausting and often ineffective. A high-quality, long-sleeve rash guard provides continuous, reliable UV protection without the chemical mess.

The O’Neill Youth Basic Skins UPF 50+ is the gold standard for sun protection on the water. Made from a premium 6-ounce polyester/spandex blend, it offers certified UPF 50+ protection that does not wash out over time. The flatlock stitched seams are strategically placed to prevent underarm chafing, which is crucial when kids are wearing life jackets or paddling for extended periods.

• Sun Protection: certified UPF 50+ (blocks over 99% of UV rays)
• Material: 4-way stretch poly-spandex blend
• Fit Type: Snug, performance fit to reduce drag
• Best Uses: Swimming, paddleboarding, sailing, and beach play

These rash guards are designed to fit very tightly to prevent the fabric from ballooning in the water. If your child dislikes tight clothing or is between sizes, purchase one or two sizes up for a looser, shirt-like fit. This piece is essential for every warm-weather charter but does not provide thermal insulation for cold-water swimming.

Motion Sickness Band – Sea-Band Child Wristband

Even though catamarans are highly stable compared to monohulls, they still experience a unique, diagonal “corkscrew” motion in ocean swells. This movement can easily upset young equilibriums, especially when kids go below deck to use the head or grab a snack. Preventing motion sickness before it starts is the key to keeping the mood light and cheerful.

The Sea-Band Child Wristband offers a natural, drug-free way to combat nausea using acupressure technology. It features a small, sewn-in plastic stud that applies continuous pressure to the P6 (Nei-Kuan) acupressure point on the wrist. Because it does not rely on active chemical ingredients, it causes zero drowsiness, allowing kids to remain active and alert.

• Mechanism: Plastic stud applying pressure to the P6 point
• Material: Washable, elasticized knit band
• Sizing: Specifically sized for smaller children’s wrists
• Best Uses: Preventing nausea during offshore passages or rough dinghy rides

For these bands to work effectively, proper placement is critical. The plastic stud must be placed exactly three finger-widths below the wrist crease, between the two central tendons. Put the bands on your child at least 20 minutes before leaving the anchorage, as acupressure is far more effective at preventing motion sickness than stopping it once it has already begun.

Marine Binoculars – Bushnell H2O Waterproof Binocular

Giving kids their own set of binoculars keeps them actively engaged in the navigation and watch-keeping of the vessel. It turns spotting channel markers, distant lighthouses, and sea turtles into an exciting game. It also keeps their hands off the captain’s expensive, high-end navigation binoculars.

The compact Bushnell H2O Waterproof Binocular is built to withstand the punishing marine environment. It features an O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged housing that makes it 100% waterproof and completely resistant to internal fogging when transitioning from air-conditioned cabins to humid decks. The exterior is wrapped in a non-slip rubber armor with a textured grip, which absorbs drops on hard fiberglass decks.

• Magnification & Objective: 8x magnification with a 25mm lens (compact size)
• Waterproofing: IPX7 waterproof rating
• Prism System: BaK-4 roof prism for crisp, bright viewing
• Best Uses: Marine wildlife spotting, navigation assistance, and shore scouting

Opt for the 8×25 compact model for children rather than a full-size marine binocular. The smaller size fits easily in young hands, and the lower 8x magnification is much easier to hold steady on a rocking deck than higher-power lenses. Always adjust the neck strap to fit the child snugly to prevent the binoculars from slipping over the lifelines and into the sea.

Floating Water Mat – Rubber Dockie Kids Launch Pad

When the catamaran is safely anchored in a calm cove, the space behind the stern scoops becomes a private water park. A floating water mat provides a stable, off-boat platform where kids can lounge, jump, and play without constantly needing to swim or paddle. It creates a defined, safe play zone right next to the boat.

The Rubber Dockie Kids Launch Pad is constructed from high-density, multi-ply Tuff-Hide foam that resists tears and punctures from enthusiastic play. Its outer layer is treated with a slip-resistant texture, making it easy for kids to climb aboard from the water. The high-visibility neon green and orange colors ensure that passing dinghies and other boaters can easily see your play area from a distance.

• Dimensions: 9 feet by 6 feet (perfect compact size for boat storage)
• Material: Tear-resistant closed-cell foam with tuff-hide outer layer
• Safety Features: High-visibility colors and a heavy-duty tether system
• Best Uses: Anchored water play, lounging, and swim platform extension

Always use the included elastic bungee tether to secure the mat to one of the catamaran’s sturdy stern cleats, keeping it clear of the boarding ladder and engine props. When under sail, roll the mat tightly, secure it with the heavy-duty straps, and lash it to the forward trampoline lifelines to keep the side decks clear. This mat is a fantastic toy for calm anchorages but should never be towed behind a moving boat.

Waterproof Dry Bag – Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag

Dinghy rides to the beach or shore excursions are notoriously wet, with spray constantly flying over the small inflatable bow. A rugged dry bag is essential for transporting dry clothes, beach towels, snacks, and valuable electronics from the catamaran to the shore. Without one, saltwater spray will inevitably ruin your dry gear before you even step onto the sand.

The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag is built from heavy-duty 420D nylon fabric with a TPU lamination, making it incredibly puncture- and abrasion-resistant. It features a waterproof roll-top closure secured with a durable buckle, and the hypalon lash loops allow you to strap the bag securely to the dinghy’s grab lines or the catamaran’s rigging.

• Capacity Options: 5L to 65L (20L is the sweet spot for kid gear)
• Material: 420D nylon with TPU laminate and waterproof seams
• Closure: Roll-top with field-repairable buckle
• Best Uses: Dinghy transport, paddleboard storage, and wet gear separation

To ensure a completely watertight seal, roll the top down tightly at least three full times before clipping the buckle. While this bag is designed to handle heavy spray and brief submersions, it is not intended for prolonged underwater use or diving. It is the perfect gear-hauling solution for parents who need to keep dry clothes dry in damp environments.

Crucial Safety Rules for Kids on a Catamaran Trampoline

The woven trampoline net spanning the bows of a catamaran is the ultimate kid magnet, but it requires strict safety guidelines. While it feels like a giant floating hammock, it must be treated with respect. Never allow kids on the trampoline while the boat is underway in rough seas. A sudden wave passing under the bridge deck can punch up through the netting with immense force, easily knocking a child off balance or soaking them.

Establish a firm “no running, no jumping” rule on the trampoline at all times. The flexible nature of the woven mesh does not provide stable footing, and a sudden wave or wake from a passing boat can launch a running child toward the lifelines. When the boat is underway in calm water, kids should remain seated or lying down on the netting, preferably wearing their life jackets.

Be mindful of footwear on the trampoline. While bare feet are generally preferred to protect the netting from abrasion, some woven trampolines can get extremely hot in the direct sun, while older vinyl-coated nets can become incredibly slick when wet. On hot days, have kids wear their Keen water shoes to maintain a firm grip and protect their feet from heat, checking first to ensure no small gravel or shells are stuck in the soles.

Managing Wet Gear and Saltwater Rinse-Downs on Board

Saltwater is highly corrosive to gear and incredibly irritating to young skin once it dries. Left untended, salt crystals act like tiny knives, scratching plastic snorkel lenses, stiffening life jacket straps, and causing painful skin chafing. Implementing a simple, daily rinse routine keeps your gear functioning properly and your kids rash-free.

Designate the stern sugar scoop as the official “wet zone” for the boat. Before kids are allowed into the cockpit or main salon after a swim, spray them down thoroughly with the catamaran’s transom freshwater shower. Rinse their Cressi snorkel masks, water shoes, and life jackets at the same time to wash away salt, sand, and seaweed before they can dry and cause damage.

Never hang wet gear to dry inside the dark, humid cabins, as this is a recipe for mold, mildew, and sour smells. Instead, utilize the boat’s stainless steel lifelines or a designated cockpit drying line to hang wet rash guards and PFDs in the sun and wind. Secure lightweight items with plastic clothes pegs or gear ties so they do not blow away during sudden afternoon wind gusts.

Final Packing Tips for a Stress-Free Family Charter

While cruising catamarans offer generous storage compared to traditional monohulls, space in individual cabins is still at a premium. Pack all of your family’s gear in soft-sided, collapsible duffel bags rather than hard-sided suitcases. Once unpacked, a soft duffel can be rolled up and tucked away in a tiny locker, whereas a hard suitcase will take up valuable floor space in your cabin for the entire trip.

Bring at least double the number of rash guards and swimsuits you think your kids will need. Because of the high humidity at sea, wet clothing dries much slower than it does on land. Putting on a cold, damp swimsuit in the morning is a guaranteed way to start the day with a grumpy child, so having a dry backup rotatable system is a major comfort upgrade.

Keep all of your smaller kid accessories—like sunglasses, sunscreens, motion sickness bands, and dry bags—organized in labeled mesh gear bags. This keeps the items visible and prevents the frustrating, cabin-wide searches that occur when you are trying to get off the boat quickly for an onshore excursion. A organized boat is a peaceful boat, allowing you to maximize your time relaxing on the water.

With the right marine-grade gear and a few smart safety boundaries, a catamaran charter is an unmatched family vacation. By choosing durable, high-visibility equipment designed specifically for the salt and sun, you ensure your young crew stays safe and comfortable while you enjoy the wind, waves, and open water.