Firstly: life jacket was less of a disaster than when we tried it on at home. Perhaps it was time and place?
Secondly: kids can get seasick. Poor thing downright refused to go down below on some days and with his pale little face popping out of his life jacket simply slept on my lap (or his dads' or a fellow mateys' lap).
Thirdly: there was no place to go. The stern is where he stayed. The little one went wild when ashore (running and walking and climbing stairs).
Fourth: get a net around the lifelines. It gave me so much added peace of mind!
Fifth: he was pulling and organizing ropes, yelling out over the commotion and pointing at all sorts of new things. Maybe instilling a future favourite sport?
Sixth: he made some great friends and had a blast! Connecting with most, calling many by name, identifying everyone and playing many new games.
Lastly: sea legs... Yep, he's got them. Just waiting for those land legs to kick in now... He walks with legs apart, wobbles, sways and falls down for no reason. I'm pretty sure the rooms are swaying for him too.
My perspective: lots of parent work even with a wonderful group of ready and willing and truly helpful friends / babysitters. Ultimately, if your kid wants you, you gotta be there for them. It's not really the place to let them get extra cranky or unsettled. Which means divided attention on everything and a less relaxing time (swimming and general shenanigans of any sort) for the parents...
