Getting started small SIB

[Casey1991]

Hi everyone!! I'm looking into starting out on a small SIB and outboard, will be moving to Kent next week and hoping to use the great stour launching from sandwich to probably the furthest point of Grove ferry, I understand it's tidal, I have emailed the commissioner there about what id need to do this, I was just wondering If you guys could help me on what id need to achieve this? I understand a life jacket and fully charged phone? Speed limits etc, Would also take ores incase of any engine issues (have good mechanical knowledge) but in terms of insurance or an actual liscence is a must? Mainly for photography and abit of help with the mental health, not looking for anything big as intend to launch by hand and fit into my small van, if anyone could give me help on what id need specially legally it'd be greatly appreciated!!

Many thanks Casey

 

[Sticky Fingers]

Nothing required as a legal minimum in the UK.

Definitely recommend you organise some training to cover the basics especially as you’re heading into tidal waters. Do a VHF course and get a VHF Handheld. You’ll get the VHF licence when you do the training.

 

[Casey1991]

Okay thank you!! Looking at the page id need a vessel number and insurance? I presume it'd just be a visitor one?

 

[Sticky Fingers]

The river will have its own requirements, so yes, and harbour / river dues will be payable. Third party insurance will not be expensive.

 

[Sticky Fingers]

That estuary is quite interesting from a tidal and navigation point of view, dries, plus the traffic in and out of Ramsgate, plenty of opportunity to screw up. Prob be worth having a day with a local instructor, exploring the extent of the area and coaching you in how to navigate it safely.

 

[Casey1991]

Brilliant thank you!! I've just checked they do require £3m cover, I've just checked for a 3rd party policy £5m is £80 a year, plus £20 annual use,
So £100 for insurance and use to launch from ramp etc annually
£150 (ish) for vhf course and radio
Life jacket £20-£50 roughly?
And of course the SIB and short shaft outboard being the biggest cost? Plus fuel oils, waterproof bags, ores etc
Think that covers everything I'd need to do it realistically?
Thank you for your help and dumbing things down for me!! It's hopefully to help my mental health, and with my photography to be honest!!

 

[Sticky Fingers]

Buy a good life jacket from a chandlers, not Amazon or eBay. You’ll maybe want to have some wet weather gear.

You can probably find a good used SIB and o/b locally.

And budget for some training. If you have an experienced friend with knowledge of those waters, ask them to spend a day or two with you in return for lunch and company

 

[Casey1991]

Brilliant thank you!! I've just checked they do require £3m cover, I've just checked for a 3rd party policy £5m is £80 a year, plus £20 annual use,
So £100 for insurance and use to launch from ramp etc annually
£150 (ish) for vhf course and radio
Life jacket £20-£50 roughly?
And of course the SIB and short shaft outboard being the biggest cost? Plus fuel oils, waterproof bags, ores etc
Think that covers everything I'd need to do it realistically?
Thank you for your help and dumbing things down for me!! It's hopefully to help my mental health, and with my photography to be honest!!

 

[Casey1991]

Thank you for the advice on a good life jacket and wet weather clothing!! I forgot to consider that, as I've seen alot of people say there's a good chance your end up wet on these types of (boats?)

I've done a kayaking day down here a few years ago, maybe I could ask them for some advice on the areas and just some general knowledge to help me with staying safe?

Dude thank you very much for your help!! It's much appreciated!! As im sure this has been asked a million times already!!

 

[Chiara’s slave]

Money spent on waterproof gear is never wasted. You’ll wear it for washing the car and putting the bins out as well

 

[Sticky Fingers]

…

I've done a kayaking day down here a few years ago, maybe I could ask them for some advice on the areas and just some general knowledge to help me with staying safe?

…

If the kayaking day was organised by a professional firm / operator then yes they’d definitely be worth talking to. Otherwise I’d expect that there will be local firms / professionals who will assist.

 

[Sticky Fingers]

Might be worth joining a local club.

Sandwich Sailing and Motor Boat Club

 

[Casey1991]

Brilliant I shall look into them when I've moved back!! They did give us briefings etc about the water and what to do but was a few years ago now, so maybe a proper boat club and instructor would be best!!

 

[Casey1991]

I think it was canoe wild, but obviously couldnt say on their experience to be honest, will definitely have a look for some training and help as you advised!!