In any form of travel there is a great of discomforts that are present. As we grow older we grow immune to these little discomforts that are otherwise upsetting. That is why private barge charters and yacht hires need hospitality crews to help out.
However, children can be more sensitive to these discomforts and these can end up being bad experiences for them that they carry into adulthood. Because the water travel can be long and ridden with boredom for children if proper care is not taken. Some children are scared of the water and need more comfort than other children.
Now a cruise in a hired yacht is something that is to be enjoyed and if a child does not enjoy it, then it all can be a downer for everyone. So what do we do? Make sure they have a great time is what you do. Taking their minds off the little things will divert them and children will easily get diverted when they are interested in something.
Ideally you should avoid bringing children under the age of three years onto yachts. Children under that age tend not to enjoy the experience and feel sea sick and are difficult to control.
Children older than that age can be easily worked with. The important aspect about handling children in a Barge Charter is that they need to be kept engaged in all aspects of the vessel.
So what can you as the crew of the vessel do? A good idea is to make them participate in the adventure. Explain to them what is going on and get them to keep an eye out for some things. Assign them work if you like but do not assign work that requires too much muscle. Luckily you have your work cut out for separate age groups.
Take the children on a tour of the ship and explain various parts of the ship and explain the different parts of it and how each one functions. The children can be taught how to steer. Of course maintain control in your hand. Show them what you are trying to do and what should be avoided. Another thing to keep the children engaged is to show them how to simple knots. Try to tell them the easy names and make them try to put one on separate occasions. Remember to congratulate them on each success.
Not to mention keeping stationery like picture books based on fish, corals, and boats have never been a bad idea. Older children can be taught more technically. If they respond well you can also show them how to read maps and ask them to help you navigate at times .Also you can tell them various trivia about various locations on the way and When under way, use a baby chart like the one given by some charter companies near the Solent to show the child the navigation path.
Keeping children entertained is not that big a challenge but it needs to be done properly and with a few handy guidelines you can well be on a the way for a successful cruise.