Welcome to CF. What are your plans for sailing beyond short cruises?
Regarding your
kids, fully net your
lifelines all the way around your boat and bring them with you. Why not? Create a safe and comfortable space for them on one of the guest berths. Childproof your
galley and make sure all system switches are either too high or covered so little fingers can’t turn off your
autopilot or
bilge pumps. Be prepared to
single hand most of the time, so make sure you’re set up to hoist/douse
sails, tack, gybe, reef, moor, and
anchor on your own. But families do
cruise with their youngsters.
If you are planning to privately
charter your boat then that belongs in one of the classifieds
forums - please don’t pollute the sailing-related
forums with your business. And of course ensure your
insurance,
registration and boat clearance (if outside the US) all support your charter business - you’re no longer considered a pleasure craft.