India’s inland waterways sector is set for a major upgrade with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways issuing a draft of the Inland Vessels (Special Category: Pleasure Craft and Canal Cruise Boats) Rules, 2025. Published as G.S.R. 857(E), the draft rules aim to bring robust safety standards, streamlined certification processes, and stricter operational protocols to vessels used for water sports, leisure, and canal cruising across the country.
The government has invited comments, objections, and suggestions from the public within 30 days of the notification’s publication in the Official Gazette. This consultative approach ensures that vessel owners, operators, tourism bodies, State authorities, and recreational water enthusiasts can contribute to shaping the final regulatory framework.
Why These Rules Matter
With the rapid expansion of water-based tourism—ranging from jet skiing and speed boating to houseboat cruises—the need for uniform safety and operational standards has become essential. The 2025 draft rules seek to standardize the construction, manning, safety requirements, and certification of pleasure crafts (less than 10 meters in length) and canal cruise boats (up to 30 meters and carrying up to 50 passengers).
These vessels, often used for tourism, recreation, or luxury stays, operate in sensitive inland waters where safety, environmental compliance, and professionalism are critical.
Key Features of the Draft Rules
1. Category & Applicability
The rules apply to:
- Pleasure crafts used for water sports, yachting, jet skiing, and recreational boating
- Canal cruise boats / houseboats used for tourism, meetings, conferences, or accommodation
These vessels will fall under the special category of inland vessels and must comply with several existing rules related to registration, survey, insurance, modifications, and database inclusion.
2. Design, Construction & Survey
The vessels must adhere to detailed design and construction standards listed in the schedule to the rules. They must be:
- Surveyed and supervised by the designated State authority
- Optionally supervised by a Classification Society, provided both surveys are carried out
This ensures structural integrity and compliance with safety norms.
3. Certification and Safety Requirements
A core feature is the mandatory Certificate of Fitness, issued only after verifying:
- Safety gear
- Structural standards
- Stability requirements
- Machinery and equipment condition
- Load line and carrying capacity
Owners must also maintain essential documents such as registration, survey certificate, insurance, and pollution prevention certificate.
4. Crew Competency & Training
Crew members operating these vessels must:
- Hold valid licenses from the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS) or a designated authority
- Be trained in vessel operation, maintenance, lifesaving, emergency response, and first aid
This ensures that recreational and tourism vessels are operated by qualified personnel.
5. Operational & Safety Restrictions
To ensure public safety:
- Pleasure crafts must stay within visible range of the shore
- Canal cruise boats must operate only in designated areas
- Operations are normally limited to daylight hours, fair weather, and safe wind & water conditions
6. Enforcement & Penalties
If a vessel fails to comply, authorities may:
- Issue rectification notices
- Suspend or cancel the Certificate of Fitness
- Impose penalties under Section 87 of the Inland Vessels Act, 2021
A formal appeal mechanism is also provided for aggrieved owners.
A Progressive Step for Tourism & Water Safety
The draft rules mark a significant step toward professionalizing India’s water-based recreation sector. By prioritising safety, standardization, and accountability, the Ministry aims to foster sustainable and enjoyable inland water tourism while ensuring the protection of lives and ecosystems.
Stakeholders now have the opportunity to share inputs and help shape the future of water recreation regulations in India.