Do You Have to Have a License to Drive a Canal Boat?
Having a license to drive a canal boat is a requirement for all types of boats on most inland waterways in the UK. This is because the canals and rivers require a lot of care and maintenance to make sure that they are accessible for everyone. The licence fee helps to pay for things like moorings and other essential services. The licence also helps to ensure that all boaters are safe and know how to use the different systems on the canals. This includes knowing how to work locks properly.
A lot of people are wondering, do you have to have a license to drive a canal boat. Despite being a very old form of transport, canals have become one of the most popular forms of tourism and holidaying in recent years. Canal boats can be hired out by companies that specialise in canal holidays. The hire fleets can consist of different sizes and types of boats to suit a wide variety of budgets.
Most canal boats are steered using a tiller that is located at the rear of the boat. This may seem strange but it makes a great deal of sense from a safety point of view. It is much more difficult to steer a canal boat from the front, with the propeller churning away beneath your feet. Steering from the back also allows you to see more of what is ahead.
Another important aspect of driving a canal boat is to be aware of what is around you at all times. This is because the canals and rivers can be very narrow at places. This means that you can get very close to other boats. If you are not careful, then you could hit other boats or even go aground.
Keeping an eye out for other boats is not just important when you are driving a canal boat, but when you are stopped too. Mooring up too closely to other boats can be dangerous and it can also block the navigation channel for other boats. It is also very important to keep an eye out for other objects, such as trees, bushes and bridges.
Most canals and rivers have different coloured buoys that mark out the safe and prohibited zones. You should always be observing these warnings, as they can change at any time.
There are also a number of canals and rivers that are owned by individual organisations or private individuals and they may have their own mooring rules. It is important to research the specific canals that you are planning on cruising in advance. You should also check whether there are any additional charges or restrictions that might apply to your licence.
Living on a canal boat is becoming increasingly popular, especially in the UK where house prices are high and banks are reluctant to lend mortgages to first-time buyers. Buying a canal boat and living on it permanently can be a cheaper option than owning a property. However, the lifestyle does come with its own challenges and there are many hidden costs associated with owning a canal boat that first-time owners should be aware of.