A day relaxing on the boat sounds like fun to adults, but for six-year-olds, hours of waiting for fish to bite, relaxing in the sun, or listening to music are not interesting ways to spend the day. A little planning before you go out on your pontoon boat can make the day enjoyable for everyone. Here are eight fantastic ideas for family fun on the pontoon boat.

1. Safety First

Every time you go out, review the rules.  Make a game out of safety reviews, for instance, by demonstrating yourself how running on the boat can lead to a fall in the water. Allow kids to catch you “breaking” the rules by saying, “Tell me what I’m doing wrong.” Reward them for remembering by giving them a treat.  Be silly and upbeat about teaching rules, but do take infractions seriously. 

2. Visit New Places

Take your kids to different places every time you go out on the boat. Kids who love surprises will enjoy playing guessing games about their destinations. By doing this, you can teach them the basics of navigation and the directions on a compass.

3. Lots of Food and Drinks

Hungry kids are whiny, unhappy kids. Pack your cooler with twice as much food and drinks than you think you might need. When the kids are playing in the water, be sure to remind them to stay hydrated, even when they don’t remember to drink.

4. Break Up the Day

Take frequent breaks to swim, fish, visit a village, and picnic on the beach. This will keep the kids from getting bored. Move along to the next activity before the kids start complaining or bickering to keep the atmosphere positive.

5. Waterproof Camera

Purchase a waterproof camera and let the kids capture their memories. You can find inexpensive disposable cameras at discount stores.

6. Movies

Bring along your projector and watch movies after dark by using a sheet hung from the bimini as a screen.

7. Pizza Delivery

Call in your pizza order and have it delivered to the dock. All you have to supply for lunch are drinks and paper plates.

8. Don’t Forget The First Aid Kit

Always have a first aid kit and don’t forget to include peppermints, a homeopathic remedy for motion sickness. It really does work!