Join the RBOA

Single Full Member: £30/yr

Couples Full Member: £35/yr

Single Associate Member: £30/yr

Couples Associate Member: £35/yr


Join by Post

If you do not wish to join and pay online, you can download and print our Membership Application Form (PDF). Return by post and pay via cheque, BACS or Standing order.


RBOA – What we do

RBOA deals with all residential boating issues.  We act as a watchdog to safeguard and protect the interests of residential boat owners. We do not seek special treatment – merely a parity with other UK citizens, a right which is often queried or delayed by various authorities.

The RBOA has an established membership around the country, on canals, rivers, lakes and Broads, and along the coast in estuaries and harbours.  Members live on a wide variety of craft, ranging from twenty-something foot long cruisers to a one hundred foot sea-going diesel yacht.  They include boats of all ages (from new build to historic boats), materials (wood, fibreglass, iron , concrete or steel) and styles (such as static houseboats, converted ex-working and military craft, Dutch barges, Broads cruisers and narrow boats).

  • We promote the benefits of people living on boats to Planners, Navigation Authorities, and Government.
  • Members are kept in touch with RBOA through our bi-monthly Magazine, Soundings.
  • Officers, Committee Members and Area Representatives are available to give advice on matters relating to residential boating and are pleased to assist with queries or problems you may have.

Remember, when negotiating on behalf of our members with Navigation Authorities, Planning Authorities and Local and Central Government, we need the strength of as many members as possible!

Membership is open to all who have an interest in dwelling on a boat and support the aims of the Association. There are four types of membership:

Associate Membership

For any individual or family that supports the objects of the Association. This is for people who do not yet live aboard, but are considering living on a boat, or who simply wish to support  the RBOA.

Annual Subscription: £30 for a single person and £35 for a couple.

Full Membership:

For anyone whose main residence is a boat.
Annual Subscription: £30 for a single person and £35 for a couple living on the same boat.

Corporate Membership

For any Business, Voluntary Organisation or Statutory Body sympathetic to the objects of the RBOA.
Call for details.

To get a copy of our membership form (pdf), please email: publicity@rboa.org.uk and follow the instructions on the form.