Boat licence? (UK only question)?

Question

Do you need a licence to drive/ride a boat in the sea or rivers?

Answer 1

No you do not need a licence to drive a boat on inland waters.Your boat needs the licence.

Answer 2

Not being picky here, however one doesn't normally drive a boat. Captain, skipper or helm would be more appropriate. Inland waterways, yes as many others have said. Off shore no, although a basic helmsman certificate would be a good idea for your own safety. You can then progress through varous other qualifications, day skipper etc. until you get to a Yachtmaster Offshore with a Commercial Endorsement, though a Yachtmaster Ocean Commercial is preferable. For commercial yachts larger than 24m you require a Class 4 or Class 5 qualification. Briefly this involves the RYA Yachtmaster Commercial qualification and other modules such as firefighting.

Answer 3

No, a licence is not required (except on some inland waterways where the boat needs a licence).  

However, it's sensible to take some training anyway, for your own sake, the RYA (amongst others) run courses and you can investigate via their website, or ask at your local sailing club or coastguard, they'll be delighted to steer you in the right direction.

Answer 4

No, a licence is not required (except on some inland waterways where the boat needs a licence).

However, it's sensible to take some training anyway, for your own sake, the RYA (amongst others) run courses and you can investigate via their website, or ask at your local sailing club or coastguard, they'll be delighted to steer you in the right direction

Answer 5

Your boat will require a licence from the appropriate river authority, you will be given a number that must be displayed on the boat, the licence is annual but the number will remain the same. Look up your river authority on line mine was the Great Ouse Authority. Training infromation on using a boat is available on line for your district, just type in 'boat handling courses'