Boatman's Licences
Under the Public Health Act 1907, East Devon District Council licence a small number of passenger carrying vessels that operate in categorised waters. The categorised waters in East Devon are from the District boundary with Exeter City down the River Exe towards the sea but end at an east west line drawn from Warren Point to the Inshore Lifeboat Station opposite Checkstone Ledge.
Boats operating in these waters do not fall under the Maritime and Coastguard Agency regulations but are expected to comply with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency's "Inland Waterways Small Passenger Boat Code". Click here for a downloadable copy of this Code from the MCA website.
Boatmen Operating In Categorised Waters
Boatmen operating in East Devon's categorised waters have to obtain an EDDC Boatman's Licence. This entails completion of an application form, a medical and completion of a seamanship test conducted by the Council's Inspector. The license lasts for 5 years or until the holder is 60 after which it has to be reapplied for annually. The seamanship test need only be done once but a medical needs completing for every renewal.
Boatmen Operating In Non Categorised Waters
Boatmen operating boats in non-categorised waters need additional qualifcations and experience. East Devon District Council does not licence boatmen to operate on non-categorised waters but advice is available from the Royal Yachting Association's Training Dept on 02380 627451 (fax: 02380 627482).
