Rules of the waterways

The Broads Authority’s Navigation and Speed Limit Bylaws are the equivalent of the ‘Highway Code’ when you are afloat.  It is every skipper’s duty to prevent collisions and avoid trouble, even if another boat breaks the rules, so please study and keep to the code. Conviction for breach of these Bylaws can carry a heavy fine and every year some holidaymakers are prosecuted.  Follow these simple rules and it won’t be you.

KEEP SPEED DOWN AND BE AWARE OF THE LIMITS

There are speed limits on the Broads to reduce boat wash (the waves created by your boat).  Speed limits vary between 3mph and 6mph and are in place to reduce erosion of the banks, prevent disturbance to wildlife and protect people on moored boats.  Even if you are under the limit you may be fined for creating excessive wash, so check your wash regularly.  Navigation Rangers carry out radar speed checks with a maximum fine of around £1,000.

RESPECT OTHER BROADS USERS

Remember to give moored boats and anglers a wide berth and slow down when passing another boat. Be sensitive to neighbours when moored up and do not leave your engine running late at night or early in the morning.  Also be aware of the volume of your radio or television etc. particularly when the roof of your boat is down.

Always drive on the right

As a general rule all powered craft must keep to the right-hand side of the river, and when meeting other boats should keep to the right as they pass by.

Power gives way to sail

All powered craft must keep clear of sailing boats, and give way to craft under sail.  Never pass in front, always behind, even if it means altering your course and speed.  Watch for which side the yacht skipper directs you to pass on.

Obey speed limits

All motor cruisers must obey speed limits, so watch out for signs along the bank.  Do not exceed the limit, as you will be liable for a heavy fine.  The speed zones are 6,5,4 and 3mph.  Always reduce speed when approaching a bridge.  Accidents are often caused by excess speed.  Keep your speed down and indicate your intentions in plenty of time.  If in doubt, slow right down and stop.

Horn signals

One short blast:           I am turning to the right.

Two short blasts:         I am turning to the left.

Three short blasts:      I am reversing.

Overtaking

Motor cruisers should always overtake on the left (midstream side) and keep out of the way of the vessel that they are overtaking.  Make sure you have time and space necessary to do this safely.

Cruising limits

Broads craft must not be taken out to sea or beyond Haven Bridge, Great Yarmouth, into the commercial harbour, or through the lock at Oulton Broad.

Sea going vessels

On the River Yare you may meet commercial vessels travelling on the river.  It is important that all boats follow the directions of the Broads Authority Navigation Rangers escorting them.

NO Cruising after sunset

Do not cruise at night or in conditions of poor visibility.  Hire cruisers are not fitted with navigation lights and you are not insured for cruising at night.

You should find safe moorings at least 1 hour before sunset.

Towing other craft

Towing other craft (except dinghies) is strictly prohibited.

Lighting of fires

Fires should not be lit on the banks or marshes; flames can quickly spread and cause a major blaze.  Barbecues must not be used on board your boat.

Noise and nuisance

It is an offence under the bylaws to play your radio/CD player or television/DVD player at a volume which causes annoyance to others.  Please keep the volume down (especially at night), to protect the tranquillity of the Broads for yourself, other holidaymakers and wildlife.

Children driving

Children under 8 years of age must not drive the boat. An adult must accompany children over 8 and under 16 at all times.

Use of firearms

The use of airguns and firearms on the Broads is strictly prohibited, and they should not be brought into the area for any reason at all.