Law Weblog

Statutory interpretation: “jet ski” is a “ship”

Tuesday 12 July 2005 at 4:27 pm | In News | Post Comment

5th July 2005 at Salisbury Crown Court, a 25-year old Weymouth man pleaded guilty to riding his Yamaha Wave Runner in contravention of Section 58 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995.
Prior to this the judge had been asked to rule on whether the Personal Watercraft was a ship in terms of the Merchant Shipping Act. In his ruling Mr Recorder A Davies QC concluded that it was indeed a ship and that the legislation applied.

Sergeant Andy Hack of Dorset Police’s marine section said: “Following yesterday’s ruling it’s important that all those using personal watercraft recognise that they have the same responsibilities as all other water users in respect of Collision Regulations and The Merchant Shipping Act. We encourage all users to undertake training under the Royal Yachting Association’s syllabus”.