The Council operates its own pleasure boat and boatman licensing scheme for pleasure boats operating in the River Orwell, where the Normal Point of Departure (NDP) is within the borough of Ipswich. This applies to vessels carrying not more than twelve passengers. Vessels carrying more than 12 are the responsibility of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

If you wish to apply for a Pleasure Boat Licence, your vessel will require inspection by a qualified surveyor to ensure it is seaworthy. The surveyor will make a charge for this. You will also need to have Public Liability insurance cover to the value of £1,000,000.

If you wish to skipper a vessel licensed by the Council, you will need to submit a separate application for a Boatman's Licence. You may be required to undergo an examination to test your competence as a boatman. You will have to pay a licence fee.

Both Pleasure Boat and Boatman's licences are renewed annually. Please contact us if you require an application form.