Where and How to do a bit of Legitimate Boating?

[RichardR]

Having just been given an old Avon inflatable dinghy and Seagull outboard by my Dad, I've started investigating options for places to take the family on the odd day out on the water and also looking into what licenses/permits I'd need in order to do so legitimately.

It appears that if I want to get on the Thames somewhere, I need to choose one of the various options for registering the boat with the Environment Agency but this won't cover use anywhere else. I've also found other references to having to get an MoT type of test carried out which I'm not confident an aging Avon and even more ancient Seagull would pass!

The other consideration is whether there're any better options than the Thames anyway so I've decided that I'll ask the question on here and then do some more research into licenses etc. for the appropriate waterway.

My original aim was to be able to stick the boat in a river somewhere, sling on the Seagull and then potter about a bit with the kids, but the whole process appears to be somewhat more involved than I envisaged! It's a lot less hassle launching around coastal waters!

Any pointers gratefully received...

[VerySideways]

How big is the boat, and the outboard?

[RichardR]

VerySideways said:

How big is the boat, and the outboard?

Both small - an Avon inflatable dinghy, approx 1.5 - 2m long, and a small and very aged Seagull, probably only a couple of hp.

The setup's pretty much identical to that shown below, but with a less modern engine!

[Ean218]

You won't need a BSS examination for an inflatable with an outboard, but you will be hard pressed to find anywhere to go other than rivers or canals as lakes are privately owned and most have access rights consigned to sailing, water-skiing or fishing clubs.

[VerySideways]

At least you won't be breaking the speed limit on the river with that motor

[RichardR]

Ean218 said:

You won't need a BSS examination for an inflatable with an outboard, but you will be hard pressed to find anywhere to go other than rivers or canals as lakes are privately owned and most have access rights consigned to sailing, water-skiing or fishing clubs.

Thanks for your response. Rivers and canals were what I had in mind really... find somewhere with parking close by, get afloat, head up or down the river/canal for a bit of exploring, stop for a picnic and then back to where the car's parked. Nothing too strenuous but just a bit of fun for the kids.

Not being particularly familiar with the waterways in this area I was hoping that someone might be able to recommend a good starting point and/or stretch of water to explore and I was also keeping my fingers crossed for a bit of advice of the type of license / permit that I might need.

VerySideways said:

At least you won't be breaking the speed limit on the river with that motor

You're right - I suspect that walking would be quicker but, luckily, speed is not the primary factor in this instance!