Event Classification

Please read and understand the classification of the event you are entering. All CMBA events are classified into one of three tiers. Each event classification is displayed on the booking page followed by a description of what can be expected. Our three event classification tiers are further outlined below along with an equipment recommendation for each. These are an indication of the minimum equipment required, but they are not exhaustive. It is the responsibility of the person in charge of the vessel to make sure that the vessel and occupants are suitably equipped for the event.

NOVICE

An event on safe lake water where there is no tide or flow and little likelihood of large waves. In the event of a breakdown at worst you would drift ashore unharmed. Ideal for inexperienced beginners, families or untried boats or engines.

  • Lifejacket(s)/buoyancy aid(s)
  • Kill cord + spare
  • Paddles
  • Mooring ropes
  • Fenders
  • Bailer, pump, manual AND electric
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher (in date)

MODERATE

An event on river or lake where strong currents may be experienced and substantial waves when windy are to be expected. In the event of a breakdown you will drift ashore but damage could be expected in adverse conditions. A step up from novice when confidence in one’s ability & boat reliability has been proven to oneself. Still suitable for family enjoyment.

  • Lifejacket(s)/buoyancy aid(s)
  • Kill cord + spare
  • Paddles
  • Mooring ropes (long lines if locks are expected)
  • Fenders
  • Bailer, pump, manual AND electric
  • First aid kit
  • Tow rope
  • Local guide/chart (or ordnance survey)
  • Compass
  • Mooring stakes
  • Sun block
  • Sufficient fuel + reserve
  • Fire extinguisher (in date)
  • Anchor (with chain and rope)

Challenging

An event normally held at sea, where tides, strong tidal flow/currents and rough water may be experienced. In the event of an emergency/breakdown assistance WILL be required – either emergency services or CMBA colleagues, as severe damage/injury may occur.

NOT SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS or inexperienced family members. RYA level 2 powerboat certification is strongly recommended. Confidence in your boat/engine(s) reliability is essential. Not suitable for untried boats/engines.

  • Lifejacket(s)/buoyancy aid(s)
  • Kill cord + spare
  • Paddles
  • Mooring ropes
  • Fenders
  • Bailer, pump, manual AND electric
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher (in date)
  • Anchor (with chain and rope)
  • Tow rope
  • Local guide/chart (or ordnance survey)
  • Compass
  • Mooring stakes
  • Sun block
  • Sufficient fuel + reserve
  • VHF (licence required)
  • GPS
  • Flares
  • Spares and relevant tools
  • Drinking water

Non CMBA

An informal meeting arranged between members/non-members or an event by another organisation and not by the CMBA. Not run under CMBA guidelines.

The Rules & Conditions for CMBA Members Attending CMBA Events and Rallies

The skipper and/or owner of the boat is responsible for complying with these rules & conditions.
  1. You must be a current member of the Classic Motor Boat Association of Great Britain (hereafter known as the CMBA) and you must hold valid boat insurance of not less than £3 Million for third party claims (£5 Million is recommended).
  2. You must be over 18 years old. Any young person under the age of 18 years who is permitted to operate, crew or be carried as a passenger in the boat may only do so under the command and supervision of the skipper or owner, who shall remain responsible for that young person at all times.
  3. It is a condition of participation in CMBA events that you and all your passengers and crew must wear life jackets at all times.
  4. It is a condition of participation in CMBA events that your boat is in a safe and seaworthy condition and that it complies with all relevant maritime regulations, including the provision of all necessary safety equipment on board. A list of recommended minimum equipment appears on the CMBA three-tier Assessment of Events according to whether the rally or event is suitable for novices, is of moderate difficulty or is challenging.
  5. “Kill” switches** where fitted and kill cords must be correctly installed and properly maintained and the driver must be attached to the kill switch via the kill cord at all times whilst the boat is under power. ** The CMBA recommend that all boats should be fitted with a kill switch: it is the sole responsibility of the skipper and/or owner if a kill switch is not fitted.
  6. Is a condition of participation in CMBA events that you are competent and suitably experienced in the use of your boat and that you act in accordance with the standards of good seamanship, including obeying any instruction by a properly authorised persons and paying proper regard to weather reports. You must only participate in events which are suitable for your experience and ability and you should be guided by the CMBA three-tier Assessment of Events. The CMBA strongly recommend that the owner and/or skipper shall have completed the RYA Level II Powerboat Handling course or a similar qualification. Where maps, chart and weather reports have been supplied by the CMBA relating to an event it is the responsibility of the owner and/or skipper to familiarise themselves with this information. The decision to launch and sail [go boating] is that of the owner and skipper.
  7. CMBA events and rallies are social and informal and for the purpose of recreation and enjoyment. They are a rally and not a race.
  8. You and your passengers and crew participate in CMBA events entirely at your own risk. Safety is the responsibility of the owner and skipper of each boat and all passengers and crew shall be briefed by the skipper and owner to take care at all times. The object of CMBA rallies and events is to have fun in safety.
  9. The skipper and any person operating the boat should avoid consuming alcohol before or whilst sailing.