Expert advice for cruisers: Watch the latest 'Evening with RATS'

Updated by Ann MacKellar
22 Apr 2026

Cruisers looking to stay informed on the latest technical and regulatory challenges which impact the cruising community can now watch the recording of an ‘Evening with RATS 2026’.

This annual seminar, held on 18 March 2026, delivered by the CA’s Regulatory & Technical Service Group (RATS), brought together expert insight on issues impacting the cruising community. Topics in this year’s seminar covered:

Lithium Batteries: Power or Peril?
Rick Ballard discussed the benefits and risks of lithium battery systems on cruising boats. He covers essential safety practices, common installation pitfalls, and what insurers now expect so cruisers can stay both protected and compliant.
Marine Communications: Should you install Starlink?
Robert Sansom presented an overview of modern communication options afloat, including the rise of Starlink. We will look at systems, discuss reliability and safety implications, and help you choose the right setup for your cruising style.
Marked Gear = Safe Gear, the lobster pot campaign renewed
Ian Wilson showed us that entanglement with poorly marked or deployed static fishing gear remains the same issue as when the CA made its video in 2018. Except for a small gain in Scotland nothing has changed. Is the CA going to take up the cudgels again?
When Abroad: making sure your kit is legal
Roger Bickerstaff discussed requirements when travelling abroad from the perspective of UK boats leaving UK territorial waters, and the requirements to maintain compliance with UK regulations, as well as the laws of the country you are visiting.

Watch the video:

Discover more

You can also catch up on the following recordings of past talks by RATS:

Watch An Evening with RATS 2025

Topics cover sailing with pets, low voltage electrics on small craft, wave and tidal power and orca encounters.

Watch An Evening with RATS 2023

Topics cover orca encounters, windfarms, cruising in Europe and the Schengen 90/180 day rule, VAT (specifics on UK VAT and EU VAT paid status and Returned Goods Relief) and CE/RCD issues.