top of page

2025/26 Vessel Registration Information

All vessels must be registered to be on the Cam, regardless of size or type. The vessel registration fee information will provide the fees for the vessel size and type. Please see the links below for essential information.

If you are registering your vessel for use on the Cam, please use the tab or link below to the registration application page. It is important that we hold the most up to date information on boat ownership, if you are selling or buying a boat that is registered on the Cam, please use the link below to download the change of ownership form. 

If you are visiting the Cam, please note that you will also need to register, for visits less than 90 days purchasing the Anglian Pass via the link below is the most expedient method of registering if you own a powered boat. If you are on the Cam longer than 90 days, you will be required to obtain an annual Conservancy registration.

If you are using a paddle craft, such as a Stand-up paddle board, a canoe or a kayak it may be more advantageous for you to become a member of Paddle UK which will give you access to additional waterways in the UK. Personal membership with Paddle UK provides valid registration to use the Cam provided that your membership number is clearly marked on your vessel. Please use the link below to find out more.

NOTICE TO VISITING CRAFT

Baits Bite Lock and Jesus Lock are currently closed awaiting stabilisation works. The Cam is open between Bottisham and Baits Bite Lock to visitors. If you wish to travel by boat to the centre of Cambridge, this is currently not possible. Please take this into account before purchasing an Anglian Pass, a pass will be required to access the Cam between Bottisham Lock and Baits Bite.

​

The river is open to paddle craft without restriction.

21/05/2024 LOCK CLOSURE INFORMATION

​

Due to safety concerns regarding the structural integrity of the lock islands at Baits Bite and Jesus Green, the decision has been taken to temporarily close the locks until further notice. More detailed structural investigations will be undertaken and a plan for remedial works developed urgently. The Conservators are engaging with the Environment Agency and Local Authorities to seek a coordinated approach.

 

Further information: The Conservators of the River Cam are responsible for the navigation (the river) from Mill Pool in Cambridge to Bottisham Lock (Waterbeach) and the locks in between, namely Jesus Green Lock (JGL) in Cambridge and Bait’s Bite Lock (BBL). ​Each lock has an island between the lock chamber and the sluice and weir structures, which it supports. At both Jesus Lock and Baits Bite Lock, the Conservators own the lock and lock island, while the Environment Agency (EA) own and operate the sluice and weir. In addition, the lock islands support footbridges and public right of way in these locations, which are managed by the relevant Local Authorities.​

​

Following observations of cracks in both lock islands, early in 2024 the Conservators of the River Cam commissioned structural surveys.​ The consequent reports identify significant structural fragility in the lock islands and a need for reinforcement work in the short to medium term.​ The Conservators have collectively reviewed the reports and are urgently drawing up a detailed risk assessment, commissioning more detailed surveys, and developing a project plan for remedial works.

bottom of page