Isle of Anglesey County Council

Powerboat and jet-ski users must be familiar with the local byelaws.

There is a speed limit of 8 knots at all 26 locations covered by our seashore and seaside pleasure boats byelaws.

A copy of the byelaws is available for from the launching attendant.

Ski boats must have an observer in the boat at all times, in addition to the driver, when a skier is in the water.

If you break Isle of Anglesey County Council’s byelaws relating to seaside pleasure boats, you may:

• be prosecuted
• no longer be allowed to use council owned launching facilities

You must register your powerboat / jet-ski if you want to launch it on Anglesey.

• You need to pay a fee and show proof of who you are and proof of insurance. Your insurance must cover at least £3 million for third-party claims.
• You must register your craft before using the approved slipways or access points.
• Every powered craft must have valid insurance and be registered, even if one person owns more than one craft.
• If a craft is not registered or the registration has been withdrawn, it cannot be used on any of the council’s beaches.

To operate a jet-ski, you must be:

• at least 18 years of age if you are unqualified
• 15 to 17 and possess a RYA certificate of competence for personal watercraft
• 12 to 14, possess a RYA certificate of competence and operate under direct adult supervision.

'Supervision' means that an adult is present on the jet-ski.

Young people under 12 years of age are not allowed to operate a jet-ski.

A wakeless speed is required within 50 metres of another jet-ski, boat, mooring, dock, swimmer, skier, angler, or fishing equipment.

Council speed restrictions must be complied within in all designated areas.

• Boating under the influence of drink, or drugs is not permitted.
• Navigation of jet-skis and power boats must be done responsibly.
• Equipment requirement will be recommended.
• Other safety and courtesy procedures must be followed.
• Launching fees will be payable.
• An owner/user’s registration will be withdrawn if the operator fails to comply with these conditions.

Make sure that your powerboat or jet-ski is properly equipped.

The RNLI provides a free service to boat owners to check your safety equipment for you and issue a certificate for the boat/jet-ski.

Telephone the RNLI on the 'Sea Check' number 0800 328 0600.

Should you want any safety advice then our staff are always happy to help you as of course are both HM Coastguard and the RNLI.

Before going on the water, boat owners should be aware of the following safety considerations.

• At certain states of the tide the currents are considerable in the Swellies (between the bridges) at Menai Bridge often exceeding 6 knots.
• Do not use lightweight or unpowered craft unless you have considerable sailing ability and knowledge of the area.
• Inform a reliable person or HM Coastguard of your departure and estimated time of return.
• Boating under the influence of drink, or drugs is not permitted.
• Carry signal flares and an anchor.
• Wear suitable clothing and a lifejacket.
• Ensure your engines kill cord, if fitted, is attached to your vessel’s driver.
• Ensure your boat is not overloaded and is in a seaworthy condition.
• Get an up-to-date weather forecast.
• Ski boats must carry an observer when towing.
• A wakeless speed is required within 50 metres of another personal watercraft, boat, mooring, dock, swimmer, skier, angler, or fishing equipment.
• If in doubt do not go afloat.