Family Friendly Marinas
Catering to Children and Teenagers
Boating is a delightful way for families to spend time together, exploring waterways and enjoying the tranquility of the sea. However, keeping children and teenagers engaged during these outings can sometimes be challenging. As the hub of boating activities, Marinas can play a pivotal role in making family boating more enjoyable and engaging for younger seafarers. By offering tailored services, products, and programs, marinas can not only enhance the experience but also increase their own foot traffic and customer loyalty. Here’s how:
1. Educational Programs and Workshops
One effective way to engage young minds is through learning. Marinas can offer educational programs tailored to children and teenagers that cover topics like marine biology, boating safety, and environmental conservation. These programs can be conducted by experts and can include hands-on activities that are both educational and entertaining.
- Junior Sailor Courses: Introduce basic sailing and boating skills to children and teens, making them feel more involved and capable while onboard. Ask a local sailing or yacht club for help hosting these courses.
- Wildlife Identification Workshops: Teach young boaters to identify different marine species. Remember to include mammals, birds, and insects that live on and around the water, as well as the fish and aquatic life living in the water. Identifying animals can be an exciting addition to any boating trip.
2. Interactive and Fun Zones
Creating dedicated spaces for children and teenagers can significantly enhance their experience. Fun zones can include interactive displays, games, and simulations related to boating and marine life.
- Aquatic Playgrounds: Water-based play areas with safe, maritime-themed equipment can be a great attraction.
- Virtual Reality Simulators: Offer simulations of marine environments or boating experiences, perfect for older children and teens.
3. Family-Friendly Events
Marinas can host events that are designed to appeal to families. These can range from fishing contests and scavenger hunts to pirate-themed days or marine wildlife watching. Such events provide fun and education and encourage families to return regularly.
- Regattas and Races: Organizing junior regattas or family boat races can add a competitive, yet friendly element to boating.
- Raffles and charity fundraisers: Raffling off prizes and hosting charity fundraisers for local community programs and organizations are great ways to build social relationships.
- Cardboard Boat Races: Scouting America provides a set of rules for cardboard boat races.
4. Youth Clubs and Membership Programs
Establishing clubs or membership programs specifically for young boaters or host an existing club such as Sea Scouts or Mariners. Clubs can foster a sense of belonging and community. These clubs can offer regular meet-ups, exclusive events, and special discounts on courses and merchandise.
- Points and Rewards System: Implement a reward system where children earn points for participating in activities, which can be exchanged for snacks, gifts, or discounts.
5. Safety and Comfort Amenities
Ensuring the safety and comfort of young boaters is crucial. Marinas can offer amenities like small-sized life jackets, child-friendly onboard snacks, and sun protection products. Additionally, providing facilities such as family restrooms and changing areas can make a big difference.
- Family Restrooms and Baby Care Stations: Essential for families with small children, offering convenience and privacy.
- Child Care Services and Summer Camp activities.
6. Equipment Rentals and Sales
Offering rental or sale of child-friendly boating gear can be another way to attract families. This can include items like fishing rods suitable for children, lightweight paddles, or even small dinghies designed for young boaters.
- Go-Pro Cameras and Binocular Rentals: Enable kids and teens to document their adventures or get a closer look at marine life, adding an educational twist to the fun.
Conclusion
By implementing these services, products, and programs, marinas can significantly enhance the family boating experience, making it more engaging for children and teenagers. This benefits the families and boosts marina traffic and customer satisfaction. With thoughtful planning and a focus on fun and safety, marinas can become a favorite destination for family outings, fostering a new generation of boating enthusiasts.
Incorporating these ideas not only makes business sense but also ensures that the joys of boating are passed down through generations, keeping the maritime tradition alive and thriving.
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About MariCorp
Maricorp is one of the largest floating boat dock manufacturing and construction companies in the United States, specializing in galvanized steel floating docks and boat lift systems. With projects spanning coast-to-coast, Maricorp provides marina consultation and design, marine construction, marina repair and renovation, and boat dock disaster response and demolition.
