Cyprus Port and Marine Police Unit

l All high speed vessels should have a valid circulation license when operated. This license is issued by the Department of Merchant Shipping after successful inspection of the vessel. l Temporary visitors staying in Cyprus for a period of less than thirty days (30) and are not holders of the above licenses, can operate a hired high speed small vessel provided they have signed a binding declaration of competence with the owner of the vessel, who is responsible to examine whether the temporary visitor possesses the necessary knowledge for operating a high speed small vessel according to the requirements of the high speed small vessel regulations. Instructions for the operators of a high speed small vessel: l Never enter the swimmers area. l Sail fromand to the coast ONLY on the designated channels with speed less than 5 km/h (3 knots). l It is strictly prohibited to anchor the vessel under any circumstances in the swimmers areas. In such case vessels will be towed away and the owners will be prosecuted. l Always be informed and comply with all the relevant laws and regulations. l Before using the vessel, make sure that the vessel as well as its equipment are mechanically in perfect condition (fuel, paddles, marine VHF, pharmacy, etc.). l Do not use the vessel if the weather conditions are not good. l Always carry with you the operator’s license as well as the vessels’ circulation license. l Always comply with the instructions of the lifeguards and the officers of the Port and Marine Police. l Any person boarding the vessel must carry a life jacket and be seated in a firm and stable seat. l Any person operating a vessel has to sail in a way which does not endanger people’s lives and property and must avoid causing annoyance to others. l The emergency cut-out line of the machine must be always connected with the operator. l The owner of the vessel must always carry with him a copy of the ownership title. l According to the legislation, para-skiing must be performed far away from the coasts and its equipment must be checked meticulously, according to the law. l Never operate a high speed small vessel while under the influence of alcohol. l Jet skis are only allowed to operate: n For the period of May 1 st - September 30 th between the hours of 10.00-13.00 and 16.00- 19.00, at a distance of 200-700m from the coast. Between the hours of 13.00-16.00 they are only allowed to operate at a distance of 500-700m from the coast. n For the period of October 1 st - April 30 th skiing is allowed from sunrise to sunset. n Skiing is not permitted at any time around the year when: m Severe weather conditions occur. m Wind speed exceeds sixteen (16) knots. m Visibility is less than one (1) nautical mile.