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Boats and watercraft

The East Riding coast and countryside is home to two boat launching sites and has space for a number of activities. Please make sure you stay safe and have the landowners permission when doing any activities on private land.

Boat and Jet Ski Launching

East Riding of Yorkshire operate two public boat launches, both run under licence by third parties. There are also a number of private boat launch clubs along the East Riding coast. Launching of any vessel is only permitted at authorised slipways and under strict adherence to the boat users regulations. You must follow the personal watercraft code of conduct, and be respectful of the wildlife and other sea users. Failure to do so can result in withdrawal of permission to launch.

Launching from Hornsea

For more information on boat launching at Hornsea please contact 07796 257989 or visit the Hornsea Launch Facebook page.

Launching from Bridlington

For more information on boat launching at Bridlington please contact the coastal services team.

Regulations and code of conduct

It is important to read and understand all rules and regulations before you launch any type of watercraft. Around Flamborough and Bempton, we have important wildlife sites and further restrictions and rules may be in place during the summer for personal watercraft, kayaking, paddleboards and more.

Jet Skis

Jet Skis must keep 300 metres seawards from the tide edge except when launching. Failure to adhere to this will result in refusal to launch from either of the Council sites

The inshore area around Flamborough Head and Filey Brigg is protected out to 2km. Within 300m of the cliff-face is Zone One, the rest of the protected area is known as Zone Two.

Paddleboarding

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) is a popular sport on rivers and beaches. You are allowed to launch paddleboards from the beaches, as long as you maintain safe distance from other water users. Wear a suitable floatation vest when out on the water.

Check tide times and wind direction before you set off. Always stay within your limits.

Respect local wildlife

Please respect and enjoy and amazing stretch of coastline. Alongside local organisations, authorities and police forces, we are promoting Operation Seabird - an awareness and behaviour campaign to protect and respect the thousands of mammals and birds that make a home on our coast.

Seabirds

Over 250,000 seabirds nest around Flamborough and Filey each summer. All of the seabirds are sensitive to disturbance, which could reduce their chances of having a successful breeding season. The colony is protected through national and international legislation.

To avoid disturbing these animals:

  • Travel at a no-wake speed within 300m of the cliffs
  • Keep a safe distance from the base of the cliffs (more than 100m)
  • If any birds respond to your presence, move away quietly
  • If you see groups of birds on the sea, slow down and go around them
  • Be aware that birds can sit on the sea in large groups for many miles beyond the protected area

Marine Mammals

The Yorkshire coast is important for marine mammals, including whales, dolphins and seals.

To avoid disturbing these animals:

  • Travel slowly and approach from the side, rather than head on
  • Observe them from a distance (more than 100m)
  • Always allow space for the animal to move away from you and any other vessels
  • Enjoy their company for a maximum of 15 minutes

If you witness significant disturbance to wildlife please call the Police on 101 and report the incident.