Small Passenger Boat Code (Cat. A Waters)

This code applies to small commercial vessels that a) do not go to sea and b) carry no more than 12 passengers. Category A waters are Narrow Rivers and Canals where the depth of water is generally less than 1.5 metres.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency and The Association of Inland Navigation Authorities have formulated the: "Inland Waters Small Passenger Boat Codes of practice"

The Code

These are codes that you must adhere to if you run a small passenger craft. The Codes are to protect both you and your passengers from harm.

So, basically you do not need a Boatmasters Licence to run a small passenger boat, provide that you implement these codes.

Certification Options

There are several ways to seek CAT A waters approval. Some are as follows:

A) Via the Inland Waterways Association Certificate of Boat Management for Small Passenger Boats, as we provide here. One section for steerers and another for the Management of the operation.This one of the easier options to gain appropriate knowledge and skills to safely run your operation.

B)Another option would be the MCGA CAT A Waters Code of practice, slightly more intense and more expensive to attain the qualifications.

The advantage of the IWA scheme is that all steerers do not need a recognised certificate of boat handling, they can be taught within the company to agreed standards so do not have to have for example an RYA Certificate. You can also self-certificate your own medical fitness.

Our Small Passenger Boat Code Course

Our course will provide you with the necessary skills for both boat handling and management of your operation. We can provide all your tuition, or parts thereof, to whatever your requirements are, so that you are fully qualified to run your small passenger boat operation on category A waters. For deeper water, or more exposed waters, see our category B waters course.

Whilst teaching RYA boat handling skills, we are limited to a maximum of 3 persons at a time, the shore-based elements can be taught in larger groups.

The Syllabus generally for CAT A Waters includes:

Boat Handling skills for the appropriate waters
Medical fitness
First aid awareness
Knowledge of operational Best Practice and Safety
Risk Assessment and Method Statement
Local area Knowledge and Emergency Services Plan
Passenger safety address and counting
Keeping records
Preparations etc for boat use
Evacuation
Fire drills and dealing with emergencies

A manger also needs extra knowledge including Insurance, first aid certification, crew records and training issues. Above all a good level of knowledge of all aspects of practical boating and safety of passengers.

Booking a Course

For questions and course arrangement, please contact us.

Is your water CAT A or CAT B?

You can look it up via the: MSN(Merchant Shipping Notice)1776

Getting More Information

Should you wish to contact the MCGA they will advise you of other methods to obtain this level of knowledge for Small Passenger Boat Operations.