Code of Practice for the Safe Operation of Recreational Craft

The Code of Practice is an educational resource, providing safety information, advice and best practice operational guidance for owners, masters, operators and users of a range of recreational craft operating in Irish coastal and inland waters, including:

• Sailing craft

• Boats used for recreational angling

• Personal watercraft (e.g. jet skis)

• Rowing boats

• Canoes, kayaks

• Stand-Up Paddleboards (when used for navigation)

• Motor boats, ski boats, powerboats, sports boats and dive boats

• Windsurfers, Foiling and Kitesurfing

• Non-powered craft.

The Code of Practice also includes “Think and Prepare” Safety Checklists to assist recreational craft users in their preparations before going out on the water. Each person must think about their proposed activity in advance, make a plan, ensure that they have the necessary training and safety equipment and know what to do if things go wrong.

The Code of Practice is structured as follows:

• General Introduction and Safety Checklists;

• Part A – Chapter 1 outlines the legislative requirements that apply to all recreational craft or specific types or size of craft. Owners and operators must comply with the legal requirements appropriate to their craft;

• Part B – Chapters 2 to 11 contain recommended guidelines and best practice for the safe operation of recreational craft. Chapters 2 to 9 provide guidance in relation to particular types of recreational craft/activities. Chapters 10 and 11 provide safety guidance applicable to recreational craft generally;

• Appendices covering such topics as radiocommunications, collision prevention, weather and sea states, lifejacket guidance, passage planning, buoyage and anchoring.

The Code of Practice is available free of charge. Copies of English or Irish versions may be requested from the Maritime Safety Policy Division of the Department at MarineLeisureSafety@transport.gov.ie or by phone at (01) 678 3434.

The Code of Practice is available to download and view in both English and Irish: