Next up in sustainability
In the coming year, we’ll continue to work hard on sustainability. We will soon define the RYA’s position on end-of-life boats and the future of electric propulsion to support our ambition for net zero.
Having completed the EU LIFE ReMEDIES Seagrass Project, we’re expecting an interim report on impact and learning which will highlight the elements of the project that can be replicated in other areas of sustainability. We will take these learnings forward as we outline new ways in which we can improve our sustainability.
Governmental affairs
In the coming year, we will continue to leverage our relationship with the Government at local and national levels whilst working to build cross-party support. Utilising our powerful members’ voice will remain a key priority in maintaining our influence as we work to protect access to safe, clean water and avoid disproportionate or unnecessary regulation.
Our Clean Water Sports Alliance work will progress from launch promotions to partaking in meaningful action. We will continue to work with our key stakeholders to push on our three asks: holding water polluters to account, better investment in testing and monitoring water quality, and extending designation of bathing waters to recreational waters.
Protecting our waterways
Our waterways are suffering due to lack of long-term fiscal investment in the infrastructure and maintenance of rivers, aging canals, reservoirs and waterways. Privatisation and a housing crisis have resulted in a significantly diminished right of navigation and the ability to access these waters.
On top of this, the rising cost of maintenance is transferring disproportionately to boaters who are seeing increased mooring and licensing fees, and we are seeing marinas being sold off to large conglomerates who prioritise shareholder profit over social value. We’ve also had reports of clubs being told they can’t hold regattas or that they’re being priced out of doing so.
All of this is having a negative impact on our sport, our community, and our waters. We’re working on several initiatives to address these issues and encourage members to come to us and share their experiences so that we can work together to protect our waterways.
Safety, security, and cruising abroad
The RYA is supporting the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) as they work on a new ‘Sport and Pleasure Code of Practice’ to reflect the rapidly changing needs of the small commercial vessel sector and maintain the safety of those involved. The MCA has made several attempts to update this code in recent years but it is a huge diplomatic effort to manage the risk of potentially sweeping, disconnected changes on the small shipping industry. We hope that once the new code is announced it is proportionate, appropriate and serves its intended purpose.
Although we take to the water for fun and competition, we know it can be a dangerous place for reasons unrelated to the tempestuous nature of the elements. As such, we will continue to keep a close watch on changes to maritime security policy and areas of potential danger. Martyn’s Law, a series of new laws intended to ensure better protection and preparedness for terrorist attacks in the UK, must be considered in our activities and events. The seas and waters in certain areas around the world remain troubled, but anti-piracy guidance is available for those wishing to cruise where pirates and terrorists are known to be active.
When it comes to cruising abroad, be aware that new post-Brexit entry and exit rules are now in force. The RYA will continue to work across government departments to influence any new change to regulations and contribute to consultations and working groups on general maritime issues with Border Force, Customs and the Department for Transport. We will work with these organisations to ensure rules translate to small commercial vessels and recreational boating.
Celebrating our heritage
In 2025 we will mark our 150th anniversary – the RYA was founded in November 1875. We are immensely proud of our heritage and we look forward to celebrating significant milestones and boating memories throughout the year. The year will also give us an opportunity to look to new horizons and the chance to build on the voice our ‘Together on Water’ strategy has given us this year and the opportunity to help change perceptions and welcome new people. We’ll use this important milestone to celebrate all that being on the water and boating and watersports offer and, importantly, look forward to further connecting with members and stakeholders.
RYA Annual Strategic Report 2024
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