Isle of Anglesey County Council

Powerboat and personal watercraft users are to acquaint themselves with the local bye-laws in relation to the conduct of pleasure vessels on the Anglesey coastline.

We would particularly draw your attention to the speed limit of 8 knots applicable at all 26 areas, covered by our seashore and seaside pleasure boats bye-laws, a copy of which is available for inspection with the relevant launching attendant.

In addition, ski boats are reminded that they must have an observer in the boat, in addition to the driver, at all times when a skier is in the water.

Contravention of Anglesey County Council’s bye-laws relating to seaside pleasure boats may result in the prosecution of offenders and for withdrawal of permission to use council owned launching facilities.

To obtain registration, a fee will need to be paid, and the registering officer will have to ensure proof of identity and proof of adequate insurance cover. Minimum insurance cover must be third party £3 million.

All powered craft launchers are required to register their craft prior to use of the authorised slip ways or access points.

The registration will require all powered craft launched in Anglesey to have valid insurance and to be registered. 

Registration will be required for each and every powered craft, even when owned by one person.

Access for personal watercraft and / or powered craft will not be allowed to any of the council’s beaches if the owner has not registered the craft with the Isle of Anglesey County Council, or if the registration has been withdrawn.

To operate a personal watercraft you must be:

• at least 18 years of age to operate a personal watercraft if you are unqualified
• 15 to 17 and possess a RYA certificate of competence for personal watercraft
• 12 to 14, possess a RYA certificate of competence and operate under direct adult supervision. The definition of “supervision” is such that the adult is present on the craft.

Young people under 12 years of age are not allowed to operate a personal watercraft.

A wakeless speed is required within 50 metres of another personal watercraft, boat, mooring, dock, swimmer, skier, angler, or fishing equipment.

Council speed restrictions must be complied within in all designated areas.

• Boating under the influence of drink, or drugs is not permitted.
• Navigation of personal watercraft and powered craft in a responsible manner will be encouraged.
• Equipment requirement will be recommended.
• Other safety and courtesy procedures will be encouraged.
• Launching fees will be payable.
• An owner/user’s registration will be withdrawn if the operator fails to comply with the above conditions.

Make sure that your craft is properly equipped.

To help with this the RNLI are now providing a basically free of charge service to boat owners that will check your safety equipment for you and issue a certificate for the boat/craft.

If you wish to use this service please telephone the RNLI on the 'Sea Check' number to make arrangements: Freephone 0800 328 0600.

Should you want any safety advice then our staff are always happy to help you as of course are both HM Coastguard and the RNLI.

Before going on the water, boat owners should be aware of the following safety considerations.

• At certain states of the tide the currents are considerable in the Swellies (between the bridges) at Menai Bridge often exceeding 6 knots.
• Do not use lightweight or unpowered craft unless you have considerable sailing ability and knowledge of the area.
• Inform a reliable person or HM Coastguard of your departure and estimated time of return.
• Boating under the influence of drink, or drugs is not permitted.
• Carry signal flares and an anchor.
• Wear suitable clothing and a lifejacket.
• Ensure your engines kill cord, if fitted, is attached to your vessel’s driver.
• Ensure your boat is not overloaded and is in a seaworthy condition.
• Obtain an up to date weather forecast.
• Ski boats must carry an observer when towing.
• A wakeless speed is required within 50 metres of another personal watercraft, boat, mooring, dock, swimmer, skier, angler, or fishing equipment.
• If in doubt do not go afloat.