British Waterways cares for Britain's historic canals and rivers

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A family enjoying a day out by the waterway

For Unpowered Craft

Consider others

  • when passing anglers you should follow a straight course in single file
  • don't perform speed events without permission from the relevant Waterway Office

Take Care

  • make sure your craft is suitable for the waterway you are using and that you are competent to use it
  • larger craft need deeper water and room to manoeuvre so keep to the side of the channel where the helmsman can see you
  • check the local waterway office safety regulations before you set out. Unpowered craft are not permitted through some tunnels or on parts of some larger river navigations
  • if you are permitted to use a tunnel, carry a light and whistle to warn other craft of your presence. Travel through in groups of at least three
  • wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid while afloat
  • locks, weirs and sluices are dangerous. Don't stay aboard your craft in a filling or emptying lock - carry it around, or if it is too heavy, use lines to keep control