HomeMarine Safety SA   Plan ahead, gear up and stay safe   Boating with children

Boating with children

Boating with children is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Make sure you keep everyone safe with the right safety equipment, including lifejackets.

If you are planning a day on the water with your children, remember to teach them the basics of safe boating. This includes:

  • how to safely get on and off a boat
  • where lifejackets, safety equipment and first aid kits are stored
  • which lifejacket they need and when they must wear it
  • emergency routines, including always staying with the boat if it capsizes
  • how to use a marine radio, a flare and an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB).

Here’s more information on how we can help children safely enjoy the water.

Lifejackets: a must for children

Children 12 years and under must always wear a properly-fitted lifejacket in open areas of boats up to 12 metres.

Emergencies happen fast – don’t wait to put one on.

Learn more about children’s lifejackets and what type they need.

Special permits

Children from 12 to 15 years old can apply for a Special Permit.

They must pass:

  • a theory test to operate under supervision
  • a practical test to operate alone.

Find more information about Special Permits.

Marine Safety Mates activity book

Help children learn safe boating habits early with our activity book. It is suitable for primary school children.

Through fun activities and simple scenarios, children learn:

  • why a lifejacket is important
  • how to stay safe when boating
  • basic boating rules.

Download the Marine Safety Mates activity book (PDF, 9.8 MB).

General tips to keep kids safe on the water

  • Always keep children within an arm's reach when you are near water or on a boat.
  • Make sure you have enough adults to supervise the number of children on board.
  • When deciding how many adults you need, consider the children's ages and how well they can swim.

Bec and Josh’s story

Bec and Josh Van Damme lost their son, Liam, in a devastating boating accident. Now, they're turning their grief into action by raising awareness about boating risks. These risks include some that parents may not know about.

The key safety messages they want you to remember are:

  • Lifejackets on
  • Bottoms on seats
  • Be within arm’s reach of children.

Watch their story as they work to prevent future tragedies.