Pleasure boats

There is a requirement to be licensed as a boatman in order to hire out crafts. The licences are in the form of a Restricted or Full Boatman's Licence.

Restricted Boatman's Licence

A Restricted Boatman's Licence applies to persons/operators on the shore or pier only and does not include the navigation of pleasure craft to be used for carrying passengers for hire. In order to qualify for a Restricted Boatman's Licence an applicant must be:

• 18 years of age or over
• Have a full knowledge of all statutory rules, regulations and byelaws applicable to navigation on the water or waters for which the licence is required.
• The applicant must not suffer from any disease or physical disability which could effect his or her fitness to assist in the charge of pleasure boats, vessels or craft let for hire.

Full Boatman's Licence

A Full Boatman's Licence applies to persons or operator who assist in the charge and navigation of pleasure boats, craft or vessels to be let for hire or be used for carrying passengers for hire. In order to qualify for a Full Boatman's Licence an applicant must be:

• Over 18 years of age
• Have a full knowledge of all statutory rules, regulations and byelaws applicable to navigation on the water or waters for which the licence is required.
• Not suffer from any disease or physical disability which could affect his or her fitness to assist in the charge of pleasure boats, vessels or craft let for hire.
• Applicants are asked to complete a declaration as to their fitness. Matters to be considered are any limb defect which restricts mobility or movement, Epilepsy, Fainting, or Cardio Vascular problems or Mental Illness.

Licences are issued on an annual basis and currently cost £28.25. 

We may suspend, or revoke a licence at any time necessary in the interests of public safety.

Pleasure Boats

Any person who wishes to be in charge of or navigate a pleasure boat or vessel for the purpose of letting it out for hire to members of the public or to be used for carrying passengers for hire, must obtain a licence.

A licence will not be issued to persons under 18 years of age. The application must be accompanied by a certificate of compliance with the British Waterways Standards (issued by an approved Marine Surveyor). The pleasure boat must comply with any authority or statutory conditions.

Licences are issued on an annual basis and currently cost £28.25. 

Contact Details

Licensing
Town Hall
Bank Road
Matlock
Derbyshire
DE4 3NN

Tel: 01629 761 313
Fax: 01629 761 165
Email: licensing@derbyshiredales.gov.uk