Published on Wednesday 28 January 2026
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council is launching a six-week public consultation on a proposed new policy for licensing pleasure boats and boatpersons operating on inland waters in Poole and Christchurch harbours.
The draft Pleasure Boats and Boatperson Licensing Policy sets out clear safety standards for small commercial boats, including skippered passenger boats, self-drive hire boats and personal watercraft such as jet skis and efoils. The policy applies only to commercial hire boats operating within inland waters – it does not affect private boat owners or vessels that go out to sea.
The consultation runs from Wednesday 28 January to Wednesday 11 March 2026, and the council is particularly keen to hear from:
- Boat hire businesses and operators
- Skippers and boatpersons
- Water sports and marine organisations
- Harbour users and other interested stakeholders
The proposed policy aims to provide clearer guidance on licensing requirements, training and qualifications, inspections and safety standards, helping to ensure that people can enjoy the harbours safely and responsibly.
Councillor David Flagg, Chair of BCP Council’s Licensing Committee, said:
“Our harbours are busy, working environments and safety must always come first. This draft policy is about setting out clear, consistent standards for commercial pleasure boat operators, while making sure the rules are easy to understand and fair for everyone involved.
We want to hear directly from those who work on the water and those who use these services, so their views can help shape the final policy.”
The consultation follows engagement with key stakeholders, including the Poole Harbour Master and national maritime bodies. The draft policy will be submitted to the Licensing Committee following the consultation, with final approval required by Full Council.
Residents, businesses and stakeholders can view the draft policy and share their comments online via the council’s consultation platform. Find out more and take part at: https://haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/pleasure-boats-policy