Pleasure craft can be considered to be vessels that are used for sport or recreational purposes only and do not operate for any financial gain to the owner. A more extensive legal definition can be had by reference to the Merchant Shipping (Vessels in Commercial Use for Sport or Pleasure) 1998 as amended.
This document gives advice and some detail on what regulations apply. More specific information can be obtained by consulting the relevant regulations or by contacting the MCA.
Download: Information on the Regulations Applicable to Pleasure Vessels (PDF)
Information on the Regulations Applicable to Pleasure Vessels
The Tideway Code
Recreational Users Guide
Vessel Licensing Byelaws 2014
General Directions for Navigation in the Port of London 2016
Port of London Thames Byelaws 2012
Reminders for Rowing Coaches
You, Your Canoe and the Marine Environment
Basic Principles of Navigation: Lower Tideway
Basic Principles of Navigation: Upper Tideway
Paddling safety around barges
Thames Code for Personal Water Craft
Information on the Regulations Applicable to Pleasure Vessels
The Tideway Code
Recreational Users Guide
Vessel Licensing Byelaws 2014
General Directions for Navigation in the Port of London 2016
Port of London Thames Byelaws 2012
Reminders for Rowing Coaches
You, Your Canoe and the Marine Environment
Basic Principles of Navigation: Lower Tideway
Basic Principles of Navigation: Upper Tideway
Paddling safety around barges
