Renting a boat under 10 meters. What to do and check

Renting a vessel, that is, a boat up to 10 meters long (hull length) that does not require registration, in compliance with the law can you?

Can I rent a boat under 10 m?

Now it does, after regulations came into effect earlier this year that bring clarity to the industry. Previously, those who rented a vessel risked dangerous infractions.

It was not his fault but the fault of those who rented it to him. Here are what the new rules are, which you need to check whether the boat you rent is in good standing.

Vessel rental, what you need to know

First element. A private individual cannot rent a watercraft; it has to be a corporation, club or association, or nonprofit organization.

Second element: there must be a written contract, and the original or a certified copy must be kept on board. And if you want to rent a small sailboat (such as the Hobie cat, photo above) remember that the rental can only be for one day and only with favorable marine weather conditions.

As a reminder, renting an unregistered boat does not require a license, as long as the engine power does not exceed 40.8 horsepower and you sail within 6 miles of the coast. One last tip, always ask what safety equipment is on board (within 300 m from the coast/inside 1 mile/inside 3 miles/inside 6 miles) so as not to incur infractions upon inspection.

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