Can we install a safety net around the boat to keep the children on board safe?
Updated on: 26/05/2025If you’re sailing with small children on board, a safety net strung along the boat’s metal gunwales can provide peace of mind and added security. Some rental companies offer to provide one as an extra (for about 200 to 300 euros, depending on the boat’s size).
Our advice: don’t rent a safety net. On modern boats, there are generally no fender rails (under the guardrails), so the bottom of the net cannot be properly secured (see photo below).
If, despite this, you really want a net, keep the following points in mind:
Note: rental companies generally do not install it, 1) because it takes a very long time to do so (about 4 hours on a catamaran), so rental companies do not have time to install it between rentals given the normal boat preparation time, and 2) because the liability implications are too significant if even the slightest accident were to occur.
Note: if you’re renting a catamaran, don’t bother with a safety net—it’s useless. Since the back of the boat has no railing, you won’t be able to protect that area.
The protection a net offers your children is limited and in no way replaces your vigilance: a net is low, and a child can easily climb over it or fall through it.
Above all, do not assume that the rental company will install it: they do not have the time, and even if you rent from a charter company that is supposed to install it for you, emergencies encountered by staff on the day of departure can delay its installation and thus your departure. We advise you to contact the base manager directly as your cruise approaches to discuss this matter.
