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Information for boaters
There are several key things you need to know if you're going to get afloat on the river. Whether you're on a powered boat or a kayak you'll find the following information useful.
This information is taken from the 'Users guide to the River Thames' available from the publications page. You'll find plenty of other useful information in this guide.
Rules of navigation for all boats
- The maximum speed for power driven boats upstream of Teddington is 8km per hour (approx 5 miles per hour).
- Obey the rules of the navigation byelaws - contact us to request a copy.
- All boats must be registered and licensed with the Environment Agency.
- Steer on the right hand side where it is safe and practical.
- Avoid turning your boat near bridges, bends and locks. Do not turn across the bows of oncoming boats; wait until it's safe.
- Keep a sharp look out at all times for any hazards, taking action when necessary. If in doubt, slow down or stop.
- Always take care when overtaking and keep clear of other boats.
- Near bridges or sharp bends, boats going upstream must give way to boats coming downstream.
Other navigation tips
- Always keep a good distance from anglers on the riverbank. Avoid their tackle and create as little disturbance as possible.
- It is safer for unpowered boats to enter the lock last.
- Powered boats should slow down and maintain a steady course when approaching rowing boats, canoes, sailing boats, swimmers and sub-aqua divers.
Maximum boat depth
At certain times of the year parts of the River Thames between Cricklade and Inglesham are only navigable by small boats. Below Lechlade the navigation channel is normally available for boats of the following approximate drafts:
Lechlade to Oxford - 0.9m or 3'0"
Oxford to Reading - 1.2m or 4'0"
Reading to Windsor - 1.3m or 4'6"
Windsor to Staines - 1.7m or 5'6"
Staines to Teddington - 2.0m or 6'6"
Environmentally friendly boating
If you wish to enjoy boating on the River Thames in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way The Green Blue have lots of useful information on their website. Or you can dowload their leaflet, How to...guide to inland boating. We also provide a list of recycling points you can make a use of whilst enjoying your trip on the river.