Personal Water Craft Code of Conduct

Essex has plenty of opportunities for you to use personal water craft (PWC) but all riders need to ensure they do this responsibly and safely. This page provides advice to those using Essex waters. Please follow the code of conduct and share this information with other riders.

There are a number of public launch sites around the Essex coast where you can launch safely and legally. Other launches should not be used for both your own and other’s safety. Public launch sites include:

• Brightlingsea Harbour
• Stone Point, St Osyth
• Ness Road, Southend on Sea
• Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon
• Ferry Road, Hullbridge

To use these launches you must register with the local council or harbour master, who you can contact through the local council. There maybe launch fees. 

There are other slipways available throughout the county but to use these you must be a member of the local Personal Water Craft (PWC) club.

When you are out on the water you are required to comply with international regulations for the prevention of collisions at sea and any local byelaws, which may restrict PWC use. You must always observe local water safety regulations but, as a general rule, must not exceed a speed of 8 knots/10mph when your craft is within 200m of the shoreline, unless otherwise stated.

There are a number of locations along the Essex coast where PWC use is restricted, for the safety of both you and other water users. The river Thames has restrictions on launch and use of PWC's, please refer to the Port of London PWC website for further information. PWC's are prohibited from the River Stour and Harwich Haven have restrictions on their use, please refer to Harwich Haven user guide.

Where restrictions exist please consult with the relevant authority.

Observe these basic rules to make sure you stay safe on the water and do not endanger others:

• Always be considerate to other water users.
• Be aware of local byelaws that may restrict PWC use.
• Read and observe the rules posted at launch sites.
• Only launch from designated ramps.
• If in doubt about where you can launch or ride ask an official before setting off.
• Do not exceed 8 knots within 200m of the shore.
• Do not enter areas where PWCs are prohibited or buoyed swimming areas.
• Always carry correct safety equipment including a waterproof radio, mini-flares and wear suitable safety clothing.
• Have, at a minimum, public liability insurance.
  It is recommended you attend a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) PWC training course.
• Register with Datatag, display your “Datatag Visible ID” clearly and keep your details up to date.
• Where possible, join a local club and enjoy the many benefits to be gained.

In order to minimise your impact on our wildlife in Essex, please follow these simple rules:

• Avoid sensitive areas and stay clear of islands and sand banks.
• Use designated launch sites and do not enter into restricted areas - a number of these are designed to protect the local wildlife.
• Do not launch from or approach roosting or nesting sites for birds, especially around high tide.
• Do not beach at sandbanks occupied by seals or where seals are in the vicinity.
• If you encounter birds or marine mammals (e.g. seals and dolphins) slow down and give them a wide berth (c.200m).
• When passing wildlife, maintain a steady direction and slow "no Wake" speed.
• Never harass or chase wildlife.
• Avoid shallow waters where you may erode the underwater seabed.
• Avoid the low water mark where birds may be feeding.
• Do not dispose of any rubbish or contaminants at sea.