This guidance is to help you to decide whether to moor on the chargeable moorings or not. If CRT charge you for mooring without booking, contact NBTA Caseworkers for help. 

For more detailed guidance, including case law and foot notes, see here

I’ve already decided to moor – what are the basics I need to remember? Brief Information

CRT’s ability to issue charges is untested. They state that they will charge double the nightly cost for any boat that stays without paying. It isn’t known if they can uphold this (see [link] for more info). 

Stick to the British Waterways Act 1995: do not overstay the 14 day limit unless reasonable, use your boat for bona fide navigation, have a valid BSS, have insurance. 

Check that mooring is available on CRT’s website before mooring on the chargeable mooring. If it is fully booked, don’t moor there. Be respectful to other boaters who may have paid.

If you say that you are mooring there in protest or there are clear signs which state the charges, then then CRT could argue that you have agreed to the terms and conditions of mooring there. This may make it easier to charge you. 

Hiding index numbers is against the 1975 BW byelaw. However, CRT do not have the power to refuse you a licence for not displaying your index number. If someone doesn’t display an index number, it is harder for CRT to know who is moored on the chargeable mooring and therefore to send emails to them.

Do not engage in conversation with mooring rangers. 

If CRT move beyond threats and do issue a charge, contact the NBTA London caseworkers: https://nbtalondon.co.uk/resources/contact-nbta-caseworkers/