Families come in all shapes, sizes… and species! Back in the old days, it wasn’t unusual to find cats onboard ships. Their mission? Catch rodents before they could chew through ropes, nibble at precious cargo, or spread nasty diseases like the Black Death. Sailors made sure their feline crew members were treated like royalty — comfy bunks and daily meals included.

Fast forward to today: cats are less likely to be found onboard, but man’s best friend? Oh yes — dogs have become enthusiastic boating buddies. If your furry co-captain is joining you for a day on the water, here’s how to make sure their tail wags all the way:

Start slow & make it fun
Teach your pup how to safely hop on and off the boat. No pushing, no pulling — just treats, patience, and encouragement. Calm waters are best for a first trip, and remember: older dogs may take a little longer to find their sea legs.

Suit up in style
A doggy life jacket is the new boating leash. Pop it on, and they’ll quickly associate it with adventure. Dogs are strong swimmers, but accidents happen — better safe than soggy.

Pup packing list

• Fresh water + non-slip bowl

• Food & treats (because boating burns calories!)

• Toys for puppies or restless paws

• A floatable leash for water-loving dogs

• Towels — trust us, you’ll need extras

• Doggy bathroom plan: pee pads, or pit stops at the dock

• Cleanup kit (bags, disinfectant, and odor spray = lifesaver)

 Bonus tip: train your dog ahead of time to do their business before boarding. A little prep makes the day far more fun.

At Bayview Boating, we’ve seen plenty of four-legged crew members become just as seaworthy as their humans. With the right gear, a splash of patience, and plenty of love, your pooch will be living the boating lifestyle right alongside you.

So grab the life jackets — both yours and theirs — and let your best friend’s ears flap in the wind. Because boating isn’t just for the family… it is for the whole family.