thames boat registration

BOAT REGISTRATION
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/subjects/navigation/499814/499910/
as far as i can tell, if you've got an engine, registration depends on how big the boat is BUT;

"Unpowered registration charges
The annual registration charge for an unpowered vessel for 2008 is £27.50.

If the vessel is visiting the Thames then short period registrations are available.

A 31 day registration costs £12.50 and a 1 to 6 day registration cost £6.50.

Unpowered registrations can either be applied for in advance by post using the form below or alternatively registrations can be bought from any lock on the Thames on the day of use."

i.e- if we've got a sail boat or raft or dinghy etc, its cheap as chips.

BOAT LICENSING
http://www.sailingandboating.co.uk/GettingSailingLicence.html
if we were sailing on THE SEA we wouldn't need one, but on the thames you definitely do.

"A Private Pleasure Boat Licence allows a boat to be used for pleasure or personal residential use for standard periods of three, six and twelve months. It does not permit a boat to be used for hiring, carrying goods or passengers for payment or any other commercial function - these activities require a British Waterways Business Licence. This is not only appropriate for businesses but for social clubs, local authorities, charities and time share operators."

+Licenses depend on how big the boat is/how powerful it is, whether its got an engine and how much stuff is onboard (how much tech stuff like fridges and tellys and shit). Unfortunately we need an MOT and insurance, but this could be less faff than it sounds:

"Before being issued with a licence, motorised craft need to pass a stringent MOT-like test called the Boat Safety Scheme, which assesses whether the boat meets the necessary safety standards.
A licensed craft will also need to have at least third party insurance. This is the same as a car needs to drive on public roads, although it is less of a headache on the water as the costs are much lower and so most people opt for the ‘all risks’ cover."

THE GOOD NEWS IS YOU DON'T NEED TO BE ABLE TO ACTUALLY DRIVE A BOAT TO GET A LICENSE. SOLID!