A recent court session has issued a clear message to unregistered boat owners on the Thames: register your vessels or face the consequences. Despite prior warnings, numerous owners failed
to comply, with more court cases expected in the coming months.
On October 22, Staines Magistrates’ Court ordered 14 boat owners to pay a total exceeding £18,000 for operating unregistered vessels on the River Thames. The Environment Agency’s enforcement officers discovered these unregistered boats during spot checks conducted in December 2023 at Surrey's Penton Hook Marina. Shockingly, around 125 vessels—or 25% of boats inspected—were found to be unregistered, prompting the Agency to trace and notify owners, urging them to complete their registrations.
In court, it was revealed that all owners had neglected to pay the required annual registration fees, which are based on boat dimensions. Some had skipped payments for two consecutive years. Two boat owners, Duncan Heyward and Tony Davies of Chertsey, were each fined for multiple unregistered vessels.
The highest penalty went to Drystan Brod from Battersea, who was ordered to pay over £2,300 for his vessel, Lindum. This amount included fines, costs, compensation, and a victim surcharge.
Colin Chiverton, environment manager for Surrey at the Environment Agency, said: “This was a great day for the majority of Thames boat-owners who register their vessel with us every year. Just like us, they’re fed up with seeing this unlawful behaviour take place on the river every year. We’re pleased with this outcome, and it sends a clear warning to all unregistered boat owners – it’s just not worth the risk.
At the end of November, we have another day in court with a further 14 owners facing the music. So, if you have an unregistered boat on the Thames, you should know that our enforcement teams are still out in October, patrolling the river and checking for valid registrations”.
Another court session in November will address 14 additional cases of unregistered boats, as the Environment Agency continues its October patrols to check for valid registrations. Renewal letters for the 2025 season will be sent in November to current registrants, encouraging early registration for compliance by January 1, the start of the new season.
The Environment Agency’s enforcement approach has shifted—boat owners are provided ample opportunity to register, but once a summons is issued, court proceedings will continue regardless of late registration payments.
Much like road excise duty, boat registration fees help the Environment Agency manage over 600 miles of England's inland waterways, ensuring they remain accessible and safe for thousands of boaters year-round.