How important are high gunnels for little kids in a boat?

[Jim in CT]

Originally Posted by pmueller

A couple of thoughts. A low gunnel is really a problem when the top of the gunnel is below the knee. To me, this is more problematic for seniors or guests that are not use to boats.
Second, I think you should take the nature of your kids into consideration. If they tend to be mindful and watching them isn't a big problem then it may be OK. If they are high energy, and tend not to listen, then its more of a red flag.
Been fishing a low gunnel boat for about five years now and to me its just easier to fish.
I do know of one guy with a boat that has low gunnels, takes clients out etc., and IMO goes out in weather he shouldn't. He has had clients go over.
Privateer makes a nice boat.

Thanks, and thanks to everyone. Well, it seems that 50% of you think low gunwales are inappropriate for little kids, and 50% think it should be OK, so that really clears things up!

I want to get thisboat, my wofe is starting to say "maybe we should put the $$ into the 529 plans, which are pathetically low", and she has a point.

We're not wealthy enough to have it all, so like most people, we have to choose one or the other. I will start posting photos of the re-build if we pull the trigger.