Boating Abroad

Boating abroad

Thinking of cruising abroad? Plan ahead with guidance on formalities, regulations and country-specific requirements.

Important notice for recreational boaters entering or leaving the UK

If you are arriving in or departing from the UK on a pleasure craft, you must report your journey to UK Border Force. The simplest way to do this is by using the official GOV.UK Submit a Pleasure Craft Report service. Please note: Now that the UK is no longer part of the EU, you may be subject to increased checks and stricter reporting requirements when moving between the UK and the EU/Schengen area.

Check before you go: key information for recreational boaters

Law of the sea and coastal state

An introduction to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) the international framework governing the use and protection of the world's oceans

Le port de la Meule sur l'île d'Yeu (Vendée, France)

Entry and exit formalities

Guidance on customs formalities, reporting obligations, pets and other important considerations when travelling to or from the UK with your boat

Paperwork

Guidance on the essential paperwork required when taking your boat abroad, whether you're sailing it yourself or transporting it by trailer

Evidence of competence

Find out what evidence of boating competence you may need when cruising abroad - whether on your own boat or on a charter vessel

Country specific information

Find information on regulations, reporting procedures, and required paperwork for the most popular cruising destinations for UK boats.

Useful to know

Red diesel abroad

Check where and how you can use marked ‘red’ diesel in the UK and EU

Holding tanks and black water

Information about black water discharge and holding tank legislation

Boats being removed from water using slipway

Towing carnet

Information on regulations and important considerations for navigating European inland waterways

Holidays on the water

family jumping from dinghy into sea with snorkelling gear and sunsail yacht behind them

How to choose the perfect sailing holiday

Record-breaking yachtswoman and Sunsail ambassador Dee Caffari shares her advice for deciding which sailing holiday option is the right fit for you and your crew

Holiday on the water

From yacht charters in the Med to canal boating and dinghy cruising across the UK, here’s our top pick of holidays on the water

What to pack on your sailing holiday

If you’re lucky enough to be off on a sailing holiday this summer, here’s a handy packing guide to ensure you don’t forget the essentials

two yachts sailing side by side in the ocean

Charter checklist

With self-contained accommodation, plenty of fresh sea air, and the freedom to up anchor get your charter checklist ready for the summer

Sunsail catamaran in the ocean with a beautiful sunset

Cruising the world

Sailing around the world can be a freeing and memorable experience, but its imperative that you're equipt with the knowledge and tools to travel safely

motor boat in the distance on the ocean off the coast of Tenerife

Winter cruising destinations

Get inspired to find your sunny escape with some top destinations for winter sailing holidays