Rules for the operation of small vessels

Water does not forgive irresponsibility, negligence, and carelessness. This should be remembered with the onset of warm weather and the swimming season. During this period, people not only visit beaches but also engage in fishing and active recreation on the water, using various swimming devices. Often, the Rules for the Use of Small Vessels and the Rules for Navigation on the Inland Waterways of the Republic of Belarus are violated, which frequently leads to accidents. For example, 7 people died in Vitebsk region in 2020 due to the use of small vessels.

The State Inspectorate for Small Vessels of Vitebsk Region informs vessel operators and residents of the region that small vessels are subject to mandatory registration and classification, with the exception of rowing boats, kayaks, and inflatable vessels with a carrying capacity of less than 225 kilograms (in accordance with Decree of the President of the Republic of Belarus No. 200 of April 26, 2010). Small vessels are understood to be vessels up to 20 meters long with a permissible number of people on board not exceeding 12, including vessels with outboard engines and jet skis.

To register a small vessel, the owner must do so within 30 calendar days from the date of purchase of the small vessel or its acquisition on another legal basis. For this, the owner presents the following documents to the State Inspectorate for Small Vessels:

- a small vessel with a motor;

- operating manual (passport) for the vessel and engine with a sales mark, title documents;

- receipt for payment of registration fee;

- application;

- identity passport.

A small vessel subject to state registration and classification, but not registered and classified in the prescribed manner, is not allowed for operation.

Before the start of operation of a small vessel, a technical inspection is carried out within 10 days after its state registration and classification, or on the day of state registration and classification, provided that the registration number is applied to the small vessel. The vessel owner is obliged to present the small vessel for technical inspection before and during its operation.

Frequency of technical inspection for small vessels:

- for small rowing vessels, less than 10 years from the year of manufacture, including the year of manufacture - 5 years;

- for small vessels with an engine power of less than 3.8 kW and over 22 kW, less than 10 years from the year of manufacture, including the year of manufacture - 3 years;

- for other small vessels and jet skis, less than 10 years from the year of manufacture, including the year of manufacture - 2 years;

- for small vessels, 10 years or more from the year of manufacture - 1 year.

Operation of a small vessel without undergoing technical inspection within the established terms and procedure: is prohibited.

A small vessel must be registered in the prescribed manner and undergo its technical inspection. For motorized small vessels with an engine exceeding 5 horsepower, the vessel operator must have a certificate of right to operate such a vessel. Special attention should be paid to life jackets; they must be worn and fastened while moving.

In case of violations or any accident or incident related to the operation of a small vessel, immediately inform the State Inspectorate for Small Vessels or the Ministry of Emergency Situations by phone 101 and 112. Additional information can be obtained on the website https://gims.mchs.gov.by, as well as at the Vitebsk section of the State Inspectorate for Small Vessels: Vitebsk, M. Gorky St., 44, contact phone 8-0212-377361.

Take care in advance to ensure your vessel is ready for safe operation. Have a happy voyage, and don't forget that you are awaited at home.