WIBTA For Excluding My SIL’s Kids From Coming On Our Boat?

What was supposed to be a fun summer boat trip turned into chaos. Kids got seasick, ignored safety instructions, and even nearly pushed someone off a moving boat as a “joke.”

The 43-year-old father said he simply wanted to include his wife’s sister’s children in a day on the family boat. But after that experience, he’s hesitant to invite them again. Now that he’s planning another outing with other relatives, he’s intentionally leaving those two kids off the guest list—something his wife feels might be a little harsh.

‘WIBTA For Excluding My SIL’s Kids From Coming On Our Boat?’

It started with him describing the previous trip:

Things only escalated once they got back:

Now he’s planning another trip:

Boat safety is no small matter. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, many boating accidents involve rule violations or inadequate supervision of children. On a moving vessel, even a split-second decision can lead to serious injury.

In this case, the father isn’t just hosting a family outing—he’s legally responsible for everyone onboard. In many places, the operator of a watercraft carries liability if negligence results in harm. When children repeatedly ignore instructions, the risk multiplies for everyone involved.

Maritime safety educator John Fetterman has emphasized in boating seminars: “Children on board must understand that a boat is not a playground. Clear rules and immediate consequences are essential.” Firm enforcement in hazardous environments isn’t harsh—it’s necessary.

From a family standpoint, exclusion can sting. But when safety concerns are real and parental supervision is lacking, declining to extend another invitation may be reasonable. A compromise could involve requiring the parent to attend and directly supervise, or postponing until the children are older and better able to follow safety rules.

Here’s the feedback from the Reddit community:

The community response was overwhelmingly consistent, many focused on safety above all else:

Some felt the near-push alone justified a permanent ban:

Others pointed toward parenting responsibility:

Some emphasized he doesn’t owe anyone an invitation:

On open water, impulsive behavior can have serious consequences. This father now finds himself weighing family harmony against the responsibility he carries as the person behind the wheel.

What would you do? When safety is genuinely at risk, is excluding someone the wrong move—or simply common sense?