The Government is currently consulting on its proposed restrictions on smoking on sea going and inland waterway vessels, according to the RYA website.

Restrictions on smoking in enclosed workplaces, public places and vehicles come into force in England on 1st July 2007. It is proposed that the regulations will apply to all vessels that come within the scope of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995, operating within the 12-mile UK territorial limit (except for ships transiting UK territorial seas and not calling at a UK port).

The proposals do not seek to extend the smoke-free provisions to private vessels which are not carrying any fare-paying passengers or any employed crew onboard and it is not clear yet whether the ban will affect club launches.

To express your view, contact the legal department at the RYA. Consultation closes on 11 May, 2007.