A small craft is a watercraft with an overall length of 2.5–24 meters (e.g. a boat, sailing yacht, motorboat, etc.) used for recreational purposes, regardless of registration.
A small craft does not include watercraft designated and marked by a sports federation for competitive sports and training (e.g. jet skis, sailboards, sailing yachts, racing sailboats, etc.), nor watercraft of primitive construction (e.g. dugout boats, skiffs, lodi boats, kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, etc.), or watercraft of special construction.
What should I check on my boat?
a) The engine requires servicing by a specialist in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions;
b) The fuel system, filters, and tank require special attention;
c) Check for play in the steering system and ensure proper lubrication;
d) The electrical system is in good working order;
e) The underwater part of the vessel and through-hull fittings are in good condition;
f) Registration numbers are intact and clearly visible;
g) Mandatory navigation lights are present and operational;
h) The battery is charged, securely fastened, and the terminals are not oxidized.
What should I check in my safety equipment?
1. Life jackets:
a) The life jacket’s compliance markings are clearly legible (CE, SOLAS);
b) Ensure that all fastening straps are present and in good condition;
c) Buckles function properly, seams are intact, and the buoyant material is undamaged;
d) Inflatable life jackets are properly inspected and compliant.
2. Lifebuoy or rescue sling is on board:
a) The lifebuoy is properly marked (CE, SOLAS);
b) A functional heaving line of 15–25 m is available;
c) These are not required on my vessel.
3. Liferaft:
a) The liferaft must be periodically serviced by an authorized provider;
b) The markings indicating the liferaft’s location and instructions are clearly legible.
4. Firefighting equipment:
a) Firefighting equipment on board must be checked annually;
b) The fire extinguisher must be at least 2 kg;
c) A fire blanket is required on small craft that use open-flame heating devices;
d) A fire extinguisher is required on vessels with any inboard engine or an outboard engine over 25 kW;
e) It is recommended to carry a fire extinguisher on all vessels, regardless of engine power.
5. Other equipment:
a) A bilge pump or bailer;
b) A compass and other navigation equipment;
c) Actual testing of the VHF communication device;
d) A suitable anchor with anchor line;
e) Mooring lines and fenders;
f) Waste collection equipment;
g) Oars/paddles as appropriate for the vessel;
h) Basic tools and necessary spare parts;
i) Any additional equipment deemed necessary.
You’ll find all the necessary products in Alter Marine’s selection.
ANCHORS
2.7 kg (for a 7–8 m boat)
3.2 kg (for an 8–10 m boat)
8.2 kg (for a 12–14 m boat)
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
PÜROTEHNIKA, PARANDUSPUNNID JA ESMAABI KOMPLEKT
For safety:
a) Make sure you know the conditions your boat is designed for
b) Always check that the boat and equipment are in good condition
c) Plan your trip and monitor weather conditions
d) Inform someone ashore where you are going and when you plan to return
e) Do not overestimate your skills and knowledge
f) Operate the vessel with a clear mind
g) Wear a life jacket
h) Be mindful of other water users and protect the environment
i) Always carry a ready-to-use communication device