Is GoBoat safe? What first-timers should know

By Grant Sweeney

Last updated April 11, 2026

If you’re planning your first trip on the water, it’s completely natural to ask if a GoBoat is safe. GoBoat is designed for beginners, with safety and fun at the centre of the experience. They are easy-to-drive electric boats and you receive a full map briefing and driving lesson before you set sail. Everything is set up so first-timers and others can feel confident and in control.

Are GoBoats safe for beginners?

Yes, GoBoat is built with beginners in mind. You don’t need a license or prior boating experience to go onboard. In fact, over 1.5 million people have already the experience with many being first-time boaters.

Each boat is powered with a quiet electric motor and travels at a slow pace of around 5mph. This makes it easy to steer and creates a calm, relaxed environment on the water. You arrive 15 minutes before your departure time to receive a map briefing and full driving lesson and the staff will make sure you’re a confident and comfortable before they untie the ropes.

showing that the GoBoat's can go along the river with other boats

GoBoat Kingston with the Yarmouth Belle

Safety briefings and onboard guidance

Every group receives clear instructions before departure, covering navigation, rules of the river, how to drive the boat and where the safety equipment and lifejackets are in the boats.

The designated captain, who must be over 18 to drive, is responsible for the boat, but it is easy to drive. You will also keep a map onboard with the route you are taking and on the top of the map is the emergency phone number for you to call and a staff member to come and assist. There is always a safety boat patrolling the river so if you are unsure whilst you are sailing either call the emergency phone or wave them down.

Life jackets and essential safety equipment

A key part of GoBoat safety I the availability of life jackets for every person onboard. These are free and included in your booking.

Children under 16 must wear life jackets at all times and are given the lifejackets at the kiosk.
For adults, it is optional but adult lifejackets are in the front hatch of every boat and there are 8 in each boat.

showing that you goboats are safe even when the site is busy

Paddington GoBoat's alongside each other

Built in safety rules you need to follow

To keep everyone safe, GoBoat has clear set of rules to follow. These are not to limit your fun, they are just there to ensure everyone has a stress-free experience.

Some rules are:

No swimming or jumping into the water
Stay seated at all times
Keep a safe distance from other boats
Do not attempt to go through locks
Stick to the given routes

Alcohol and Safety: What’s allowed?

A common question is whether you can drink on a GoBoat and how it impacts safety. GoBoat allows alcohol at our sites except Paddington:

The captain must remain completely sober
No spirits on the water, but cocktail cans are okay
Drunken behaviour is not tolerated
Trips may be stopped if safety rules are broken

This ensures that you can still enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere, safety is never compromised. If you are unsure, please check the alcohol policy on our website.

Weather and Safety considerations

Weather plays a big role in any boating experience and GoBoat takes this seriously.

Trips usually go ahead in light rain or cooler conditions, but the team constantly monitors weather forecast and river flow. If conditions become unsafe such as poor visibility or thunderstorms your trip may be delayed or rescheduled. If you are unsure on our weather policy, please check it out on our website.

Is it safe for families and groups?

Absolutely, GoBoat is a popular choice for families, celebrations and group outings. Each boat can carry up to 8 people, making it idea for social occasions. With safety measures like mandatory lifejackets for children and slow cruising speeds, it is a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages.

Dogs are even welcome onboard, just keep in mind that life jackets for pets are not provided.

What makes GoBoat safer than you might expect

Slow speeds

With a maximum speed of 6mph, GoBoats are far less risky than a traditional motorboat.

Simple controls

The tiller is at the back and easy to learn within minutes.

Staff support

There are crew members available on the water and on the phone, adding an extra layer of reassurance.

Clear safety structure

From briefings to rules and maps, everything is designed to minimise confusion and maximise safety.

Tips for first-time GoBoat users

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time to get the map briefing and driving lesson
Follow the recommended routes and avoid restricted areas on the map.
Check the weather forecast before your trip
Listen to staff guidance

Final Verdict: Is GoBoat safe?

So, is GoBoat safe? The answer is a confident yes.

With beginner friendly boats, full safety briefings, life jackets for all passengers and rules, GoBoat provides a secure and enjoyable way to explore the water, even if it is your first time.

Whether you’re cruising through Paddington, Canary Wharf, Kingston or Thames Ditton, you can step onboard with confidence, knowing your safety is already taken care of.

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