Owners Club

Hi to you all. My name is Bill and I have just become the proud owner of a 535 which I plan to use for inshore fishing, cruising on sea and fresh water.
What I need to know is, other than 3rd party insurance, which I have, what else do I legally require before I put my boat in the water?
Does my VHF radio require a licence? Some people say yes some say no. Some tell me it's free if you apply on-line others that it costs £20.00. Do I need a boat licence? I don't know where I stand, and I don't want to get it wrong.
Any reliable information will be gratefully received.
Many thanks,
Bill.

Hi Bill, licences depend where you are.
If your boat has a VHF installed it needs a VHF ( Ships Radio ) licence. You also need a separate licence to operate the radio.
I got my 'Marine Radio Short Range Certificate' after a 1 day class and some faffing around with Ofcoms website: licensing.ofcom.org.uk The licenses are free, if applied for on-line ( or £20 by post ), and indeed should be printed out so you can keep copies on the boat.
I am not certain whether the course is required but it is certainly very useful.
I have a boat moored inland and only own 50% so don't know about other licences or coastal regs. Your local harbourmaster will know.

Also consult the RYA. They will suggest a range of useful courses ( navigation and boat safety being the minimum i'd recommend ). It may cost a few pounds and some effort but it's time well spent.
Also get the local RYA to do a boat safety assessment www.rya.org.uk will put you right
Sorry it's pointing you to more links but the information is already out there.
Good luck.