Missed connection with toddlers: what changes

With toddlers, put the children first: a safe place to sit, water, a snack, then the phone calls. Plan a gentle night near the jetty and take the first boat in the morning, unless a boat is confirmed and the timing is kind to little ones. Keep every message as proof.

This page shows what changes when small children are involved. For the standard steps, read what to do if you miss the last boat, and for the wider route see the journey in four legs.

What do you do in the first ten minutes?

Put the children first, then the calls.

1. Find a safe, shaded place to sit, away from the water’s edge.
2. Give water and a snack. Hungry, thirsty toddlers make a hard moment harder.
3. Check nappies, comfort items and the weather.
4. Then call the operator and message the resort, while the children are settled.
5. Take a screenshot of your ticket and the time.

If you are two adults, one can make the calls while the other stays with the children.

Should you still try to reach the island tonight?

Only if the operator confirms a boat in writing and the arrival is not too late. A tired, cranky arrival in the dark is hard with toddlers, and the boat itself needs patience. A room near the jetty and the first boat in the morning is often calmer.

Ask the operator what time the first boat leaves, and what check-in is needed for small children. Our page on boarding a boat with toddlers and strollers covers the practical side.

What changes about the room you book?

Choose a place that suits small children, not only a bed.

• A quiet room, away from the road and the lift.
• A fridge for milk, food or medicine.
• A bath or shower, and a place to wash a bottle.
• An early breakfast, or a packed one for the morning boat.
• A cot or extra bedding, if you need it.

Our page on arriving the night before with children lists more questions for the hotel.

What should you carry for an unplanned night?

Keep one small bag within reach, apart from the main luggage.

• Spare underwear or nappies, and wipes.
• A change of clothes for each child.
• Snacks, water and regular medicine.
• A favourite comfort item and a small toy.
• A charger, and a copy of your booking.

What should you ask the operator and resort?

Ask these in writing.

• What is the first boat in the morning, and what time must we check in?
• Are life jackets available in child sizes? Reports say marine enforcement advises operators to provide enough life jackets for all passengers ^[1], but sizes are not confirmed, so ask.
• May we bring our own life jackets?
• Will the resort hold our room, and charge for the missed night?
• Who pays for the extra night?

Our page on life jackets on island boats goes further. For responsibility and cost, see who pays when a connection fails.

A better fit if…

A night near the jetty may be a better fit if the children are tired, it is dark, or the crossing is late. Going tonight may be a better fit only if a boat is confirmed, the timing is kind and an adult can stay with each child. Send us the details and we will help you choose.