Revised Code for the design, construction and operation of hire


boats published The Hire Boat Code outlines the standards for boats let for hire on UK inland waterways and carrying 12 people or less. Developed by British Marine and AINA, it provides the framework for continued safe business operations of hire boats on inland waterways, and clarifies the responsibilities of operators, navigation authorities and users. It also helps businesses by the consistent application of licensing and registration requirements through inland navigation authority waterways in the UK. Importantly, the Maritime & Coastguard Agency has been actively involved throughout the development of the Hire Boat Code and is supportive of its purpose and content.


First published in 2009, the latest version of the Code includes a new raft of requirements, including a new stability requirement, and formalises a number of current and new safety management procedures. One of the major changes is the recognition that it is of the utmost importance that all who take part in hire boating understand their responsibilities to ensure the experience is a safe and enjoyable one. The


responsibilities for user safety do not solely rely on the hire boat operators but also the navigation authorities and most of all the users. Another key update to the Code is the requirement for improved handover procedures before a boat leaves the shore.


Due to different licensing or registration processes followed by navigation authorities in different areas of the country, the revised Hire Boat Code will be rolled out and implemented over the next 12 months dependent on the navigation authority. Navigation authorities will engage with hire operators on their waterways to inform them of when and how the revised Hire Boat Code will be implemented on their waterways.


Nigel Hamilton, Chair of British Marine Inland Boating Association, said: “In the last year we have seen a large increase in the numbers of new users on the waterways. The latest Code supports hirers and navigation authorities to provide safe on the water experiences for all, and that safe and manageable waterways are ensured. It plays a key part in making certain we continue to attract new and existing users to the inland waterways.”


Download the Hire Boat Code at https://bit.ly/3h4W8Nm.


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