Sib requirements uk law wise

[Darren.c]

Can someone explain the laws regarding using a SIB with an outboard in the uk for waterways and sea? Is there insurance needed or a licence?

[Poly]

Depends where you want to use it. Theoretically in the sea - no restrictions, but you may find you need insurance to launch. Having insurance is probably a sensible idea as a prop will make a lot of mess of a swimmer/diver etc. Inland waters - each owner sets their own rules.

[paulbrown22]

In general on the UK coast, nothing is needed for a boat that size. But depending on where you are launching/using the boat, the harbour/river authority may require some form of local licence (i.e fee), proof of insurance and/or training certification.

On inland waterways various rules/requirements apply from Canal and River Trust, Broads Authority, Environment Agency, etc., depending on what stretch of water you are on. With most think it generally boils down to buying a licence (fee) and having proof of insurance, but you can check the specific authority websites for their requirements.

Where are you thinking of going?

[Darren.c]

Well mostly in the sea (littlehampton) I’m getting a Honwave t38 and a 20hp, I would like to go on the Thames and other waterways though. Is it common to get checked for paperwork? And does anyone know of a cheaper sib of that size? My brother-in-law would like
To start out too but hasn’t got the budget for the Honwave and a 20hp

[paulbrown22]

Originally Posted by Darren.c

Well mostly in the sea (littlehampton) I’m getting a Honwave t38 and a 20hp, I would like to go on the Thames and other waterways though. Is it common to get checked for paperwork? And does anyone know of a cheaper sib of that size? My brother-in-law would like
To start out too but hasn’t got the budget for the Honwave and a 20hp

Where would you launch in Littlehampton? Regardless I believe the harbour commissioners there require all boats to have third party insurance, and obviously there's a speed limit on the river, etc.

And which part of the Thames? Different rules in the non tidal (above Richmond lock) and tidal (below Richmond lock).

In all the places I've been sailing/boating, the only place I've ever been stopped/boarded/checked is France! But certainly on inland waterways here it's possible to get checked.

[Darren.c]

I was planning on launching off the beach

[mhill]

A Honwave T38 isn't what I would want to take down the Tideway through central London, there is a great set of resources on the PLA's website.
There are a few on here who have boated through central London so any questions ask away.

[Croolis]

I would consider doing a level 2 powerboat course. When I've spoken to insurance companies I've had the impression that's been helpful (couldn't swear to it), plus you learn useful things, probably help avoid total neophyte errors, might add something to conversations with officials and it's a short course that's not terribly expensive.

[Fenlander]

OP if this is your first experience other than a kayak I would at least have the first outing from the Slipway near the RNLI not the beach. Yes you will pay harbour dues but its a roomy slip with a car park right adjacent to the for setting up. There can be significant challenges with beach launch/recovery particularly if the tide is further out when you return or the weather has kicked up.

[mhill]

Originally Posted by Fenlander

OP if this is your first experience other than a kayak I would at least have the first outing from the Slipway near the RNLI not the beach. Yes you will pay harbour dues but its a roomy slip with a car park right adjacent to the for setting up. There can be significant challenges with beach launch/recovery particularly if the tide is further out when you return or the weather has kicked up.

Worth remembering that the RNLI are there to save lives and not Salvage.