With just one week to go, don’t miss your chance to register for an evening at the CA’s Regulatory & Technical Services (RATS) group talk and webinar. Mark your calendar for 1900 hrs UTC on Wednesday 19 March 2025 and join us for an engaging and informative session of talks and presentations, packed with insights to help you prepare for the cruising season ahead.
The content is aimed at seasoned sailors and those just beginning your cruising journey. RATS will tackle the latest hot topics, offering practical advice and expert guidance.
Whether you are looking to understand the electrical systems on your boat, finding out how to deal with orca encounters, are cruising abroad with your pets or want to know the latest on the impact of wave and tidal power on your cruising - this CA webinar has you covered. The webinar is free to all via Zoom with in-person tickets to attend at CA House costing £4 members / £7 non-members.
What’s on the Agenda?
This year’s talk, the fifth of its kind, will feature four key presentations designed to keep you informed on topics that could impact your cruising plans. The presentations will last approximately one hour, followed by a Q&A session to answer your questions:
- Orca encounters: staying safe on the water
John Burbeck will share the latest updates from the CA Orca Project, covering recent interactions, risk-reduction strategies, and safety advice for sailors navigating waters off France, Portugal, and Spain. - Sailing with pets: what you need to know
Tania Nieveen will guide you through the regulations and preparations required for cruising with pets, especially when entering EU waters or beyond. Ensure your pets meet all entry requirements for a hassle-free trip. - Low voltage electrics on small craft
Rick Ballard will discuss RATS’ ongoing work on low-voltage systems for small boats, including technical basics, battery energy consumption models and the pros and cons of switching from lead-acid to lithium chemistry batteries. - Wave and tidal power: Navigating New Developments
As wave and tidal electricity generation expands, Roger Bickerstaff will provide an overview of these advancements and their navigating their developments.

©Tania Nieveen
How to attend
Date: 1900 hrs UTC on Wednesday 19 March 2025
Tickets: Attendance via Zoom webinar is free to everyone, members and non-members. Or why not attend in-person at CA House, London at £4 members / £7 non-members
Register now: www.theca.org.uk/events/rats-evening-190325
Discover the CA Regulatory & Technical Services (RATS) group
As well as the key topics detailed above, RATS plays a vital role in supporting cruising sailors by addressing regulatory and technical challenges. From engaging with government bodies to advocating for sailors’ interests, RATS ensures your voice is heard. This webinar is an opportunity to also learn about ongoing campaigns, including updates on ETA/ EEA / ETIAS travel systems, Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), VAT, and black/grey water regulations.
Special offer for non-members
If you're a non-member attending the event - whether in person or via Zoom - you will receive a 15% discount code for your first year of CA membership (when paying by Direct Debit).
Join the Cruising Association
With over 6,400 members worldwide, the Cruising Association offers unparalleled support, resources, and expertise to enhance your cruising experience. Whether you’re planning coastal trips, European inland waterways adventures or blue water sailing, CA membership provides invaluable benefits.
12 March 2025