The recording of the CA’s ‘Evening with RATS’ on 21 March 2024 is now available for members to watch.
Members and non-members heard presentations on orca, HVO and sustainability, EU visas and permits, CE/UKCA and RCD, along with updates on other RATS technical projects.
The panel of RATS experts – Roger Baron, John Burbeck, Trevor Page, Mike Eastman James Collier, Richard Ritchie and Rick Ballard – addressed the topics, sharing knowledge and case studies on:
- Orca: insights into ongoing interactions with orca off The Bay of Biscay, Iberian Peninsula and Strait of Gibraltar
- HVO and Sustainability: examining Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil which could be an eco-friendly replacement for diesel, weighing the pros and cons and exploring regulatory obstacles.
- EU Visas and Permits: addressing challenges posed by the 90/180-day rule for UK citizens visiting Schengen countries, with updates on positive developments in some nations.
- CE/UKCA and RCD: the latest on conformity marking of vessels brought into service from outside the UK and the EU and exploring the impact of the UK Government's decision on CE marking.
- RATS Technical Projects: an overview of other issues RATS is reviewing, including sustainability, emissions, autonomous marine radio devices (man overboard beacons), artificial nesting sites, wind farms, rocket launch sites and marine protected areas
Members who missed the event, or would like to see the webinar again, can watch it on the videos page on the CA website.
About RATS
RATS is the Regulatory & Technical Services committee of the Cruising Association. It is made up of volunteer members with a range of expertise including engineering, law, science, maths, technology, and consulting. All RATS are experienced cruising sailors.
RATS represents cruising sailors (both sail and power) and address issues of concern or interest on the regulatory and technical aspects of cruising. RATS research topics and issues and follow political trends. RATS interacts with international, national, parliamentary, trade, special interest and local bodies, who often seek our input and consult with us on matters which involve cruising. On the technical side, RATS reviews all aspects of cruising including navigation, safety at sea, and communications, and environmental issues such as sustainability.
Find out more at www.theca.org.uk/public/rats.
17 April 2024