return to boating

For all the latest updates on Coronovirus COVID-19 please visit the RYA's COVID-19 hub page. We are working on a range of guidance and resources to help members and the wider boating community prepare for a safe return to the water. These resources will ensure that boaters can return to activities on the water as quickly and safely as possible and can be found on this page as they become available.


For RYA Guiding Principles

The RYA's guiding principles will underpin all guidance across the boating community.

1. Our guidance

Covid-19 preventative measures are vital in keeping you, your family and others safe and to minimise pressure on frontline services. The RYA will continue to support the National effort to control the spread of Covid-19 and assist members of the RYA family with any variations that might develop at a local level.  We support the Government’s desire to return to normality in a measured way and we recognise that we have a role to play by providing guidance to the RYA community on the application of the 2020 Regulations.

2. Our approach is considerate and conservative

Considerate: be mindful of the potential impact that you could have on other water users and do not place unnecessary extra strain on the RNLI and emergency services.

Conservative: help to minimise incident and accidents by taking an extra cautious approach to your boating.

Our guidance on safe boating remains unchanged: know your limits; look after yourself; keep in touch and, above all, have a plan. As the restrictions are relaxed, we advise boaters to think about these factors.  The RNLI and the RYA have also worked in collaboration to produce joint safety guidance to help ensure that this summer is as safe as it can be.

          RYA Guiding Principles poster          

For RYA members and recreational boaters

Following the Government announcement on Sunday 10 May, unlimited outdoor activity is permitted in England including all forms of boating. Restrictions in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are also beginning to be lifted with boating activities now permitted in Scotland.  For more information please follow the links below: 

Boating in Scotland

Boating in Northern Ireland

Boating in Wales

Please find all the latest information for recreational boaters on the RYA's COVID-19 hub page.  

Also please find the RYA Guidance on sailing & racing with participants from different households during COVID-19 in England.

#BoatingIsBack

Over the coming weeks, we'll be sharing everything you need to get back on the water safely this summer. Build your knowledge and improve your skills with advice from the RYA's expert team. From 'top tips' and 'how to' videos, to boating safety guidance, advice for clubs and of course our favourite RYA books, there's something for everyone. Make sure to check out the RYA Facebook, Twitter and YouTube for all the latest updates.  

          Advice & FAQs                 #BoatingIsBack video playlist    


For Clubs and Classes

The Covid-19 outbreak continues to be rapidly evolving situation that presents a number of complex challenges and decisions for all service-based organisations.

Please see links below for various guidance, resources, videos and forums about restarting boating and racing activity in the link below:

Online Club Development Forums RYA Return to Boating posters & social media images RYA Return to Boating toolsGeneral Advice & FAQs  Club Zone Video Playlist  #BoatingIsBack video playlist  

For Recognised Training Centres

As COVID-19 lockdown restrictions begin to be lifted both in the UK and overseas, we have put together the guidance below to assist RYA recognised training centres (RTCs) when considering if, when and how RYA Training activity should take place.  

There are a number of temporary variations to the RYA conditions of recognition currently in place to assist RTCs resume activity when it is safe and appropriate to do so.  Please make sure you are aware of and comply with the latest guidance from the government in the country in which you operate, as well as completing your own risk assessments. 

 Guidance for Restarting RYA Training Activity   RYA Training in the UK  Guidance for Restarting RYA Training Webinars  General Advice & FAQs 


For RYA Technical Services

RYA Technical Services (Coding & Tonnage) during the Coronavirus (COVID19) Pandemic - please find FAQ's for Surveyors, Inspectors, Measurers, Owners and Managing Agents here: