New Animated Safety Videos Launched for UK Boaters
The Environment Agency and the Canal & River Trust have teamed up to launch a fresh series of animated shorts aimed at helping boaters stay safe on the UK’s inland waterways — including the iconic River Thames.
Simple Tips for New and Hire Boaters
These five snappy animations, now live on YouTube, target new boaters and hire boat users. They offer no-nonsense advice on boating safety, mooring, using locks, and navigating tricky spots like bridges, tunnels, weirs, and sluices. Plus, they remind boaters to protect the waterways’ unique heritage and wildlife.
The videos complement the trusty Boater’s Handbook, providing key navigation tips in an easy, accessible format. The move comes as more people take to the water post-pandemic, boosting interest in boating.
Officials Aim to Boost Confidence on the Water
“Having listened to our customers, we are delighted to launch, along with the Canal & River Trust, these quick and easy-to-watch safety videos which will help bring confidence to new boaters setting out on the water for the first time,” said Jo Scully, Environment Agency’s national navigation manager. “They highlight hazards and how to avoid them, so you can relax and safely enjoy the pleasures of our beautiful waterways alongside other river users.”
Matthew Symonds, national boating manager at Canal & River Trust, added: “The waterways are fantastic places to explore by boat and it’s great that boating remains a popular leisure and holiday option for so many people experiencing the waterways for the first time. We want to make sure people have the best possible experience and provide them with the information they need to safely handle a boat.”
“These videos cover all the things boaters could expect to come across in an everyday cruise, and we hope that they will help new boaters feel confident as they cast off and discover the wonders of the nation’s inland waterways.”
Watch and Learn
You can catch all the videos on the Canal & River Trust and Environment Agency YouTube channels. Check out the Environment Agency’s Boating safely playlist on YouTube.
Need More Info? Key Resources:
- The Boater’s Handbook: A must-read for basic boat-handling and safety. Get it here: The Boater’s Handbook – GOV.UK
- Canal & River Trust: Guardians of 2,000 miles of canals and rivers across England and Wales. They promote healthier, happier lives by encouraging communities to enjoy and protect waterways.
- Environment Agency: Custodians of over 1,000km of navigable waterways and two harbours. They ensure safe, sustainable access to waterways that draw 15 million visits a year, benefiting communities and businesses alike.
