Gold licence

If you buy a Gold Licence, you won't need to buy separate licences from these authorities.

A Gold Licence allows complete access to all Environment Agency and Canal & River Trust waterways, in all regions. A Gold Licence lasts for twelve months and is for powered craft only.

For more information and to apply for a Gold Licence, download the information pack below. You should apply through the Canal & River Trust for this: we do not issue Gold Licences.

• Gold Licence information and application form (PDF, 634KB)

Reciprocal registration

Each year we offer a free 15-consecutive day registration to visit either our Anglian, Southern or Thames waterways, if you currently hold a full annual registration on another of our waterways. Simply complete and return the visitor/short-term registration form for the location you want to visit. 

• Register your boat

If you have any questions please contact us by phone on 03708 506 506 or by email at boatreg@environment-agency.gov.uk

River Cam

From January 2013, Gold Licence holders who wish to access the River Cam upstream of Bottisham Lock will need to register separately with the Conservators of the River Cam. 

This is due to a change in the Interchange Agreement between the Environment Agency and Conservators.

Please visit the Conservators website for more information.

• Conservators for the Cam