Contrary to popular belief, many kids are spending time outside, with 87% of children stating they’ve been outdoors at school most days or every day in the past week in a recent GOV survey. So, why not carry that spirit of adventure into the weekend with water activities for kids?

Outdoor water activities are more accessible than ever. And they’re a brilliant way to get kids some fresh air, have fun and explore. Even a simple inflatable kayak turns a day into an exciting adventure.

To offer some inspiration, Honda Marine has put together some fun on-water activities that, with the right supervision and safety measures, young adventurers can enjoy!

With a splash of creativity and the right setup, there are plenty of water play games your kids can immerse themselves in.

Paddle races and treasure hunts

Paddle races are an ever-popular kids water play game that children can dive into, especially with a small dinghy or inflatable kayak. Set a simple course, making sure there’s plenty of space, and see who’s swiftest paddler on the lake!

In addition to paddle races, you could also bring some adventure to your kid’s water play games. Treasure hunts, with small, waterproof toys or clues to find along a certain route, are an exhilarating puzzle. For little ones, a simple game of “I Spy” and some treasure snacks can add a fun twist to a peaceful paddle – and help teach them about nature too.

Tow toys

While many adult boaters enjoy drifting peacefully on a small dinghy or inflatable raft, kids often crave a bit more action. If you’re looking to promote a lifelong love of boating for your child, or their activity group, think about kids water activities that’ll really cause a splash.

What’s more thrilling than bouncing over waves on a towable tube, their laughter (and a dash of panic) echoing across the water? For young thrill seekers, tow toys provide the ideal mix of fun and adventure, helping to transform outings into a memory they’ll cherish into adulthood.

Regardless of the activity you choose for water play activities, safety should always be your top priority. Keep a close eye on every child and ensure they’re wearing properly fitted life jackets. This not only keeps everyone safe, but also helps you create unforgettable memories – not nightmares.

If you and your little ones are avid nature lovers, activities such as spotting coastal wildlife, birdwatching, and identifying plants along the shoreline can transform your inflatable boat adventure into an outdoor learning opportunity where you can both happily bob along.

• All you need are a pair of binoculars, or you could use a camera to let the kids have a go at a spot of wildlife photography.

• If you’re on a particularly scenic stretch, stopping for a quiet picnic to take in the sights can be incredibly relaxing.

• You could make nature-spotting into a game. See who can sight the most birds, animals and fish during your time on the water.

A 3-person inflatable canoe is ideal for smaller families looking to boat together, and with an inflatable dinghy on a boat or inflatable yacht, can add more space and comfort for longer boating expeditions.

If you’re looking for an inflatable boat with a motor, look no further than Honda’s portable outboards, which are designed to run quietly. This way, you can truly enjoy nature without drawing attention to yourself.

Kids learn fast, and some entry-level water sports can be a fun and accessible way to get them into boating. There is a wealth of different types of water sports for kids of all ages. Some examples of water sports activities are:

• Paddleboarding and bodyboarding are among the top 10 water sports you can do at low speeds. They can be exciting without being too overwhelming.

• Setting up an inflatable pontoon can be a great shout if you’re looking for a safer, stable platform for your little ones. This can give them the freedom to play, swim and paddle from a bit of a ‘base’.

• If you’re feeling adventurous, an inflatable speedboat driven at sensible speeds (by a responsible adult!) can add the right amount of thrill.

• If your child is a bit older, wakeboarding, water skiing, or knee-boarding make for an incredible long-term hobby. Just ensure you give them lessons with a ski school, rather than trying it yourself.

As always, safety comes first. Don’t forget the essentials, such as life jackets, keeping a clear view of the shore, and keeping your speed in check when boating. With the right supervision, young boaters can gain skill and confidence in no time.

Before setting off for the day, ensure you’ve got your travel safety gear ready and that you and everyone in your group – children and adults alike – know what to do in an emergency so you can travel safely.

Here’s a travel safety tips checklist:

✅Life jackets – Always wear one that’s the right size and properly fitted. No exceptions.

✅Kill-cord – If you’re using an onboard engine, make sure the kill-cord is securely attached and demonstrate how it works.

✅Weather check – Use reliable sources to check the weather before heading out. Mobile applications such as Met Office or Tide Times UK can provide you with up-to-date information on where you plan to sail.

✅VHF radio or phone – Bring a VHF radio and/or a fully charged mobile in a waterproof case in the event of an emergency.

✅UV protection – Hats, sunglasses, and plenty of good quality sunscreen can help prevent burns, especially during summer.

✅Let someone know – Let a friend or family member know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

For added safety, don’t forget your inflatable boat pump and inflatable repair kit in case of an unexpected engine failure. Plus, you can add in a few backup inflatable seats for maximum comfort, in case you plan to be out boating the whole day.

If you’re new to boating and would like more informative content, learn how to start your on-water journey with a beginner RYA lesson to build your confidence and skills on the water.

For those new to boating, Honda Marine’s Honwave inflatable boats paired with portable Honda outboards offer an ideal blend of convenience, simplicity, and quality. Packages include:

• T32 IE 3.2m Air V Floor Honwave + BF10 HP Short Shaft Outboard Engine – Lightweight, durable, and easy to assemble, the T32 IE with Air V floor pairs perfectly with the compact BF10 HP to provide responsive control, smooth starts, and superb fuel efficiency.

• T40 AE 4m Aluminium Floor with Air Keel Honwave + BF20 HP Short Shaft Outboard Engine – Durable and spacious, the T40 AE features an aluminium floor, air keel, and improved comfort and safety upgrades. Perfectly pairs with the BF20 HP for smooth, responsive performance.

Shopping for your first boat? Here’s what to keep in mind, especially if you’ve got your kids in tow.

• An inflatable tender boat is ideal for calm family outings or short trips from shore, where it’s easy to pack and set up.

• A dinghy with a motor adds a bit more range, which is great if you plan to cruise around for a while or go fishing.

• A kayak is ideal for fun activities such as tandem paddling, encouraging teamwork, balance and fun with your little ones.

Each option offers a unique way to explore the water, so it really depends on the kind of adventure you want to have.

Where can young boaters learn more and get started?

For structured learning, check out the RYA Youth Schemes, which are specially designed to help young boaters build skills and confidence from an early age. You can also explore nearby boating clubs, where your kids can learn in a fun, supportive environment.

Keen to get your kids on water? Start with a visit to your local Honda Marine dealer for expert tips and demos – or explore our boat bundles today.