Who needs a waterway licence? If you’re kayaking, canoeing or stand up paddleboarding in England or Wales a waterway licence is required to paddle on over 5000km of waterways that are managed by the Canal & River Trust, the Environment Agency, the Broads Authority and a number of other waterway authorities.
Can I kayak on any river UK?
The sea surrounding the UK is free to Kayak except for a few off-limits areas as stipulated by the Ministry of Defence. This includes any estuaries and tidal rivers. Many rivers have tides that extend far inland so keep that in mind when researching your preferred paddling destination.
Do you need a licence to kayak in a river?
If you’re paddling on the sea, estuaries or tidal water, or on a river or canal which doesn’t require a licence, then that’s fine, you don’t need one. There are also options to purchase a day licence. A Rivers licence is not a tax. The income is used for the benefit of paddlers.
Do you need a licence to kayak on the Thames?
Do I need a licence to paddle on the Thames? If you’re paddling on the non tidal section of the river (Cricklade Bridge to Teddington) yes, you need either a non powered pleasure craft licence available from the environment agency here or join the British Canoeing here.
Do you need a licence to paddle board on a river?
Yes, the use of a paddleboard, or any other portable, unpowered craft on the majority of inland waterways, requires a license obtainable from the relevant authority. On Regent’s Canal, there are two license options: Short term or 30-days explorers’ license from the Canal and River Trust.
How do I get a kayak licence UK?
You can usually purchase day licences from places like the Canal & River Trust or Broads Authority, or you can purchase yearly licences from these places too. The most comprehensive licence for paddlers though is the British Canoeing membership (or respective home nation membership).
Where in the UK can you kayak?
The Wye Valley
The Wye Valley is one of the most spectacular places to kayak or canoe in the UK. With over 100 miles of navigable water, it is very popular for multi-day trips.
Can you kayak on any rivers?
There are legal rights to go boating on some non-tidal rivers because they have been highways for centuries. The general rule is that if a river was once a highway for commercial traffic, it is still a highway and can be used by kayakers.
Can you kayak in a river?
Rivers are a wonderful kayaking environment as long as you’re prepared for the currents and potential hazards.
Can you kayak on canals UK?
Yes, licences are required for the Canal and River Trust, exceptions being for members of British Canoeing and Canoe Wales who can use the waterways for free.
How much is a kayak license UK?
Prices range from around £20 for a week’s licence on a river only to around £122 for 30-day ‘Explorer’ licence on a canal or river (prices as of April 2022), which allows you to spread out your use across the year.
What side of the river do you kayak on?
Is there a correct side to pass on on canals and rivers? Ian. as a general rule you should pass left hand side to left hand side. i.e. aim to the right of the boat coming towards you, thereby going between it and the rhs bank.
Can you kayak on lakes UK?
In England we are fortunate to have many large lakes and reservoirs that can be enjoyed by kayakers and canoeists. They are normally sheltered from winds and have no currents making them a perfect beginner location to learn. Most are easily accessible at public slipways and are only a small fee or free to use.
Can you paddle board in rivers UK?
You can take your paddleboard along canals, rivers and lakes in the UK. Inland waterways are calm and suited to beginners and those interested in leisurely paddleboarding.
Can I paddle board on rivers?
Stand up paddleboarding is a fun activity you can enjoy on our canals and rivers, as well as on lakes and oceans. It’s a fantastic full-body workout and an excellent way to experience the beauty of the outdoors.
Can I paddle board anywhere UK?
You need a waterway licence to paddle board on the majority of managed rivers and canals in England and Wales. Because if you don’t have proof of a waterway licence you could end up with a hefty fine from the waterway authority that manages that stretch of water.
Can you kayak across the English Channel?
Kayaking across the English Channel – while quite tiring – was actually very straightforward. We were accompanied by a support boat and had some of the best conditions they had ever seen! The crossing took us five hours and eighteen minutes.
What do I need to kayak?
Kayak Gear
- Kayak.
- Paddle (1 per paddler), plus spare.
- Personal flotation device (1 per paddler)
- Bilge pump.
- Spray skirt (for cold weather/water)
- Dry bag for personal items.
- Headlamp/light with extra batteries (in case you’re out after dusk)
- Signaling whistle.
Can I kayak on the Thames?
Yes you can canoe or kayak on the Thames or use any type of craft on the non-tidal River Thames between Cricklade Bridge and Teddington Lock, and the short section of the tidal River Thames between Teddington Lock and the Port of London Authority’s boundary, including backwaters and marinas.
Do I need insurance to kayak in UK?
There is no legal obligation to have canoe or kayak insurance in the UK so it is up to you whether you choose to insure yours.
Can you launch a kayak from anywhere?
Kayaks, canoes and paddleboards do not need to use boat ramps. You can launch from just about anywhere there is permitted access.