Meeting the regulations

We want to share our experience to enable other groups of people, and administration is a large part of the project. This is an extract of the conversation with British Authorities. Sounds like we are on a very good track !

Hello dear xxxxxxx,

As a minimum the vessel should comply with SOLAS V, which can be found
in the link below. She will also have to have to comply with the
COLREGS. Such as displaying the necessary lights and shapes, and
crossing shipping lanes at right angles.

http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/solas.pdf

I would suggest that you carry all the basic life saving gear such as
life jackets, flares, radio, first aid kit, and if possible, a radar
reflector.

For the launch and tow down the Thames, you should contact the Port of
London Authority (PLA) in the first instance. Contact details can be
found at www.pla.co.uk

For the crossing itself, you will need to notify Dover Coastguard well
in advance of your intentions. You should also contact the French and
Dutch authorities. The link below will provide some further
information.

http://www.mcga.gov.uk

I see no problem with the vessel registering on the Small Ships
register. An application form is attached. The registration fee is
£25.

I hope this helps. If you require any further information please don't
hesitate to get in touch.

Best regards,
xxxxxx

UK Ship Register
Spring Place
105 Commercial Road
Southampton
SO15 1EG
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 2380 329 197
Fax: +44 (0) 2380 329 447
www.ukshipregister.co.uk