There’s something magical about Boating during summer. Boating on the Norfolk Broads or gliding along the River Thames is equal parts relaxation, adventure, and a great excuse to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature. And guess what? You don’t need to own a yacht or be an expert to explore the UK’s open waterways.

Sailing and boating are more accessible than you might think. Whether it’s calm inland canals or scenic rivers, with a little planning, the right kit, and a few essential safety tips, you’ll be ready to get on the water.

If you’re eyeing an inflatable boat or thinking about adding a small outboard engine, summer is the perfect time to dive in. Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy safe boating this season with Honda Marine.

Now that the sun’s out, it’s the ideal time to explore the UK’s wide network of open waterways. You usually need to register or license your boat if you want to keep or use it on inland waterways, such as rivers and canals. Contact the navigation authority of the waterway you want to use to find out.

Some of the best beginner-friendly locations include:

The Norfolk Broads – A calm, connected system of lakes and rivers perfect for first-timers. No formal RYA certificate is required for most small craft, but you’ll need to pay a navigation toll to use your boat on the waterways.

The River Thames – Above Teddington Lock, the river is well marked with clear navigation signs, buoys, and channel markers to guide you safely. This iconic waterway is perfect for relaxed cruising past riverside towns and countryside, with plenty of mooring spots and facilities along the way.

The Lake District – Windermere and Ullswater offer stunning scenery for boating. On Windermere, all powered craft must be registered with the Lake District National Park Authority, while Ullswater allows licence-free access for many small, non-powered boats.

Where do you need a licence to hire a boat?

Licensing requirements vary across the UK. The Canal & River Trust and the Environment Agency websites list navigable waterways and outline any permits needed. Most inland waterways will require a boat licence, while for coastal boating, you may only need registration and insurance, depending on your boat type.

Some waters also have their own local rules. For example, the Norfolk Broads require a navigation toll, and all powered boats on Windermere in the Lake District must be registered with the local authority.

How should you prepare your boat for the summer?

If you’re navigating the water with an inflatable boat, such as a Honwave, it’s important to thoroughly check both the boat and, if fitted, the engine before you set off. Here’s how to go about it.

1. Begin with boat inflation. Fully inflate your boat to look out for: • Leaks. You can spray soapy water on seams and valves to detect escaping air • Worn valve seals or fabric damage • Slow deflation over time, which might suggest pinholes or seam stress

2. Inspect your outboard engine with the following seasonal servicing checklist: • Change the engine oil • Check and replace spark plugs • Inspect fuel lines for cracks and leaks • Grease moving parts • Ensure the propeller isn’t damaged and secured properly

3. Always read and refer to the user manual for both your inflatable boat and onboard engine. It will inform you about critical instructions such as setting the correct PSI (pounds per square inch) for inflation, oil change intervals, storage tips and more.

4. Make sure your boat trailer or launch system is in good condition. Check the tyres for wear, ensure the lights and brakes are functioning properly, and look for signs of rust or corrosion. A well-maintained trailer makes launching and retrieving your boat safer, smoother, and less stressful.

5. Finally, pack your safety equipment for every trip. Make sure all the safety essentials, which we’ll discuss in the next section, are in good condition and easy to access in case of an emergency on water.

Pre-launch checklist:

✅ Check fuel and oil levels

✅ Inflate and inspect the boat

✅ Examine the outboard engine

✅ Pack safety equipment

What safety equipment do first-time boaters need?

Safety should always come first when you're on the water, even for short trips on shallow, calm canals. As a minimum, make sure you have the following gear:

• Life jackets. Choose a buoyancy aid or auto-inflating life jacket rated for your size and activity.

• Fire extinguisher. If your boat has an engine, it’s essential to carry a dry powder fire extinguisher on board. This type is effective for electrical and fuel-related fires. Keep it easily accessible and ensure everyone on board knows where it is and how to use it in case of an emergency.

• Flares. These are an important emergency signalling option for some types of boating, particularly coastal or offshore trips. In the UK, they are only mandatory for Class XII vessels (over 13.7 metres), but can still be a useful addition to your safety kit. If you choose to carry them, follow all regulations for storage, handling, and disposal, and ensure you know how to use them correctly.

• First aid kit. A well-stocked marine first aid kit should include essentials such as antiseptic wipes, waterproof plasters, bandages, and scissors, not to mention seasickness tablets and burn treatment. Ensure the first aid kit is stored in a dry place and check its contents regularly to replace any used or expired items.

• Marine GPS system. While not essential for short inland trips, a marine GPS can be invaluable for longer or unfamiliar routes. It allows you to track your position and plot safer courses, and some models also offer weather data. They’re particularly useful in low visibility or when navigating complex waterways.

What is BSS?

The Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) is a certification that applies to boats using UK inland waterways. It’s similar to an MOT for cars and is managed by the Canal & River Trust and the Environment Agency. The scheme sets out safety standards for boat construction and onboard systems, helping to reduce the risk of accidents on the water. If you’re using a small inflatable boat with a portable petrol outboard engine on inland waterways, you will usually need a valid BSS certificate. Boats without engines, or those used only on coastal waters, may be exempt, but always check with the navigation authority for the specific waterway before setting out. However, if you’re moving up to a larger vessel—especially one with fixed fuel tanks, electrical systems, or inboard engines—you may need to meet the The Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) is a certification that applies to boats using UK inland waterways. It’s similar to an MOT for cars and is managed by the Canal & River Trust and the Environment Agency. The scheme sets out safety standards for boat construction and onboard systems, helping to reduce the risk of accidents on the water BSS requirements.

You should also be familiar with the rules around boat navigation lights in the UK. For example, if you’re boating at night or in poor visibility, most vessels must display red and green sidelights so others can see and safely avoid you. Boats under 7 metres in length and with a maximum speed of less than 7 knots only need to display them if it is practical to fit them. Even if not legally required, lights can greatly improve safety.

It’s also important to understand the IALA Region A buoyage system used in UK waters. This system uses red and green channel markers to indicate safe water when entering from the sea:

• Red marks should be kept to port (left) when travelling upstream or into a harbour.

• Green marks should be kept to starboard (right) in the same situation.

Learning these markers — along with other special marks, cardinal marks, and safe-water marks — will help you navigate safely and avoid hazards.

How do weather and route planning affect your boating experience?

Boating is most fun and safest when you’re sailing in calm conditions. Before heading out on the boat, always check the marine weather forecast for the area you plan to sail. Keep track of:

• Wind strength and direction. Check the forecast for wind speed and direction before you head out. For beginner boaters, wind speeds below 10 knots (roughly 11 mph) are best, as they ensure easier handling. Stronger winds, combined with currents and tides, can create choppy conditions and make navigation challenging, especially on open lakes, estuaries, or coastal waters.

• Tide charts. Tide movements significantly affect boating, particularly in estuaries, harbours, and coastal areas. Use tide charts or apps to understand when high and low tides occur. Knowing this helps you avoid strong tidal currents that can impact speed, steering, and your designated route.

• Visibility. Poor visibility caused by fog, mist, or heavy rain can make it difficult to spot landmarks, buoys, or other boats. This increases the risk of collisions or getting lost. Always avoid going out in low-visibility conditions, and postpone your trip if forecasts predict reduced sightlines or sudden weather changes.

Mobile applications such as Met Office or Tide Times UK can also give you up-to-date information on your current route. As a beginner, you should first try out circular or out-and-back routes so that you’re never too far from your launch site. Furthermore, avoid boating in coastal waters until you’re confident in reading conditions and navigating waves and tides.

Make a habit of also informing friends and family of your route and estimated return time, even for a short inland trip. And bring a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch just in case. Better safe than sorry.

Should beginners start with a smaller boat?

Absolutely. Dinghies, inflatables, and small rubber boats offer easy handling, making them ideal for learning the basics. A Honwave inflatable, paired with a lightweight Honda outboard, gives you a reliable, portable setup for boating on the water—whether it’s a calm lake, a sheltered bay, or a gentle coastal trip in the right conditions.

Ready to get started? Explore Honwave inflatable boats and outboard engines with Honda Marine. Our portable range is built for control, confidence, and adventure on water.