With effect from 2 Jun 03, canoes and kayaks owned by individuals, schools and non-profit organisations (except commercial operators) do not need to be licensed by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). With the exemption, these owners who wish to use their canoes and kayaks in Singapore port would not be required to apply for new licences of such craft or renew their existing licences.

The exemption of licensing for canoes and kayaks is in line with the Government's move to encourage more self-regulation by the public. To ensure the personal safety of owners and users as well as the seaworthiness of the craft, the MPA will be sending out circulars on the safety guidelines for canoes and kayaks to the shipping community and affected parties. The guidelines would also be posted on its website, www.mpa.gov.sg for greater access by the public.

Presently, any individual or organisation in Singapore who wishes to own any canoes or kayaks are required to apply for a licence from the MPA. Canoes and kayaks managed and rented by commercial operators are licensed and inspected annually and this will be continued.

With the new exemption, individuals whose craft's licence expires after 2 Jun 03 can obtain a refund on the balance of the licence fee paid earlier at the following address:

One Stop Document Centre
7-A Keppel Road
#01-26
Tanjong Pagar Complex
Singapore 089055
Tel: 6375 2373/2374/2375
Fax: 6325 2376

End of Release.

Safety Guidelines for Canoeing and Kayaking