Check the operator age rule first
Age access, boat-rider access and cage entry are not always the same. Check the rule for the exact departure, then ask the operator about ladder use, ocean conditions and captain discretion.
Choose based on comfort, not age alone
- Can the child follow instructions in moving water?
- Are they comfortable with a mask and snorkel?
- Can they climb the boat ladder with help?
- How do they normally handle small boats and motion sickness?
A boat-rider ticket can be a better choice when a child wants to join the family trip without entering the cage.