What is the law on going down a river in a boat?

Question

I've got a small dinghy and I want to go down a river in it. What are the laws affecting this. Is it illegal to pass through someones land in a boat?

Please help.

Answer 1

As far as I know you can do it. But you need to be aware of any weir's and other hazards.

Answer 2

Contact the National Rivers Authority for advice

Answer 3

is it private land?

Answer 4

Sounds dangerous, dingy's can easily capsise. Contact the coastguard and ask for permission, you find their contact details by typing 'coastguard' into google along with your country's name.

For example 'UK coastguard'

Answer 5

Most waterways in this country are public, even if bordered on both sides by private property. Your boat must meet the requirements for a vessel it's size and you must have proof of a general boating safety course.