Using a drone from a boat opens up extraordinary opportunities for photography, video, and even navigation. Whether you want to immortalize your cruises in the Mediterranean, monitor the condition of your sailboat at anchor or simply capture the beauty of the seascapes, the drone has become a precious companion for many boaters. However, this practice raises complex regulatory issues that go beyond the simple terrestrial framework. Between territorial waters, military zones, marine natural parks and different national jurisdictions, the legal framework can quickly become a real headache. This article aims to enlighten you on the rules to follow to use a drone from your boat legally and safely. We will discuss both French and European regulatory aspects as well as the best practices to adopt to take full advantage of your equipment while respecting the law and the safety of other sea users.

Understanding the legal framework for drones in France and Europe

The general regulation of recreational and professional drones

The first step in understanding the regulations applicable to drones at sea is to master the basics of the European legal framework. Since 2020, the European Union has harmonized drone rules through a single regulation that applies in all Member States. This regulation clearly distinguishes between two main uses: the recreational drone, used for personal pleasure without any remuneration, and the professional drone, used in a commercial or lucrative context. This distinction is fundamental because it determines the obligations imposed on the pilot.

The European regulation organizes the use of drones into three main categories according to the level of risk. The “Open” category concerns low-risk operations, generally drones under 25 kg flying at sight and at low altitude. This category is itself subdivided into three sub-categories (A1, A2, A3) according to the proximity to the people and the areas flown over. The “Specific” category applies to operations presenting a moderate risk and requires prior authorization from the national authorities, with a risk assessment specific to each mission. Finally, the “Certified” category concerns high-risk operations, such as the transport of persons or dangerous goods, and imposes very strict requirements comparable to those of civil aviation.

Registering a drone is an essential requirement for any owner of a device weighing more than 250 grams or equipped with a camera. This process is carried out online on the AlphaTango portal of the Directorate-General for Civil Aviation (DGAC) and makes it possible to obtain a UAS operator number that must be attached to the drone. This number uniquely identifies the operator and makes it possible to find him in the event of an incident or violation. The registration currently costs 10 euros and remains valid as long as the owner's information does not change.

Pilot training is also a key regulatory element. To fly in the Open A1/A3 category, the pilot must pass a free online theory exam available on the AlphaTango portal. For sub-category A2, which allows flying closer to people, self-reported practical training and a more comprehensive theoretical exam are required. These courses aim to ensure that each pilot has the necessary knowledge of aviation safety, meteorology, legislation and privacy. The certificate obtained is valid throughout the European Union, which greatly simplifies cross-border travel with your boat.

The particular case of using a drone at sea

Flying a drone from a boat introduces specific regulatory complexities that do not arise when flying from land. The main difficulty lies in the fact that the boat is a mobile platform, sometimes in motion, which complicates the definition of the take-off point and changes the usual safety parameters. In addition, the sea falls under particular jurisdictions depending on the distance from the coast, with areas where specific rules related to national sovereignty, defense or environmental protection apply.

The maritime areas subject to authorization are numerous and varied. Ports, whether recreational or commercial, are restricted areas where drone flight is generally prohibited without prior authorization from the port captain. This restriction is intended to protect sensitive infrastructure and to avoid any risk of collision with manoeuvring vessels. Military zones at sea, often marked by buoys or signs, formally prohibit overflights for obvious reasons of national security. Marine natural parks, marine reserves and Natura 2000 areas also impose strict restrictions to protect fauna and flora, especially during periods of nesting of seabirds or the breeding of marine mammals.

Safety is a major issue when using a drone from a boat. The stability of the take-off and landing platform varies considerably depending on the state of the sea, the size of the boat and the weather conditions. Taking off from a 10-meter sailboat in a rough sea presents risks that are very different from that carried out from a 15-meter catamaran at anchor in calm weather. The risk of GPS signal loss is also increasing at sea, in particular due to the lack of visual cues and the possibility of interference from on-board electronic equipment. Moreover, systems such as the Oria Marine IoT box can precisely help you better monitor the conditions on board and anticipate the right moments for flight, by centralizing weather and navigation data.

The rules to follow to fly a drone from a boat

Flying in the French territorial sea

The French territorial sea extends up to 12 nautical miles (about 22 kilometers) from the coast and constitutes an area where France exercises its full sovereignty. In this area, French drone regulations apply in full, but with some particularities related to the maritime context. The pilot must respect all the rules of the Open category if his activity corresponds to them, in particular the maximum flight height of 120 meters above the sea surface and the obligation to maintain the drone in direct sight.

The necessary authorizations vary according to the type of drone used and the nature of the activity practiced. For recreational use with a drone weighing less than 2 kg in category A1 or A3, no specific authorization is generally required, provided that zone bans and safety regulations are respected. On the other hand, for a professional activity, even in the Open category, the remote pilot must have completed the appropriate training and the operator must have completed an activity declaration. If the flight has particular characteristics, such as flying over people, the use of a drone weighing more than 25 kg or an operation out of sight, prior authorization from the DGAC becomes necessary.

Coordination with the maritime prefecture is necessary in certain specific cases, especially when you plan to carry out drone operations near sensitive areas or as part of a large-scale professional activity. Maritime prefectures, which exercise state authority at sea, may issue temporary or permanent restrictions for reasons of maritime security, defense, or environmental protection. It is always a good idea to consult the advisories to mariners and to contact the competent maritime prefecture before undertaking drone operations in potentially sensitive areas, particularly near major ports, naval bases or military exercise areas.

Flying offshore or in international waters

Beyond 12 nautical miles, you enter the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and then, even further afield, into international waters. In these spaces, the regulatory framework is becoming significantly less clear for civilian drones. International maritime law does not explicitly address the use of recreational or professional drones, which creates a legal gray area. In principle, it is the law of the ship's flag that applies, that is to say that of the country where your boat is registered. Thus, a French boater sailing in international waters remains subject to French and European drone regulations.

Legal responsibilities remain full even in the absence of an explicit framework. In the event of an accident, collision with another ship, or unauthorized overflight of a foreign vessel, you may be subject to civil and criminal liability. The absence of clear regulations does not mean the absence of legal consequences. In addition, some countries claim extensive surveillance and control rights over their EEZ, in particular for reasons of national security, and may misinterpret the use of a drone near their waters.

Best practices to avoid unintentional infringements consist above all in applying a principle of caution and common sense. Avoid flying your drone near other ships, especially military or commercial vessels, which could see this as an intrusion or threat. Maintain a safe distance and never attempt to film sensitive installations even if they are at sea. Always keep a record of your flights (flight log, GPS data) to be able to justify your good faith in case of questions. Finally, keep your drone in optimal flight condition and make sure you have valid insurance coverage in international waters, as some contracts explicitly exclude this area.

Flying abroad: know the local laws

When sailing to foreign waters, regulations change as soon as you enter the territorial waters of the destination country. Even within the European Union, where the drone regulation is theoretically harmonized, significant variations persist in its practical application. Some countries have added national restrictions that add to the European framework, creating a complex regulatory patchwork for browsers.

In Italy, for example, drone regulations are relatively strict, with extensive prohibitions around historic sites, beaches, and tourist areas. The fines for violations can be particularly severe, sometimes exceeding several thousand euros. Spain also applies strict rules, especially on busy Mediterranean coasts, with no-fly zones that cover the majority of beaches during the summer season. Greece, a preferred destination for boaters, imposes significant restrictions near archaeological sites and military installations, which are numerous in the Aegean islands. In the Caribbean, each island or territory has its own regulations: some islands completely prohibit the import of drones, others require temporary import permits, while a few have relatively flexible rules.

Fortunately, the tools and resources to check local restrictions before you navigate are becoming more and more numerous and accessible. The DroneSpot mobile application offers a global map of authorized and prohibited areas, regularly updated thanks to user contributions. The UAV Forecast application provides similar information while integrating meteorological data useful for planning your flights. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) website also offers a list of the national authorities in each member country, with links to their respective portals. Before arriving in a new country, take the time to check the local civil aviation authority's website and, if possible, contact the port authorities to clarify the applicable rules. This proactive approach will avoid inconveniences and potentially very expensive fines.

Practical tips for safe and compliant use

Preparing for your flight

Careful preparation for each flight forms the basis for the safe and successful use of your drone at sea. Unlike a land flight from a fixed point, the marine environment presents specific challenges that require special attention. Marine weather often changes rapidly and can differ significantly from coastal forecasts. Before each flight, consult the detailed marine weather forecasts, paying particular attention to wind, which is the main limiting factor. A wind of force 4 on the Beaufort scale (around 20 to 28 km/h) generally represents the upper limit for safe flight with most consumer drones, because beyond that, maintaining stability and returning to the boat become problematic.

The stability of the boat during takeoff and landing largely determines the success of the operation. A boat anchored by calm seas offers ideal conditions, while a boat that is sailing or subject to roll and pitch considerably complicates maneuvering. Always take off from the hand rather than from the deck if your boat moves, and make sure you have enough clear space to avoid any risk of snagging the rigging, antennae, or other deck equipment. A good practice is to assign an observer to monitor the drone while you focus on the controls, especially during critical takeoff and landing phases.

Setting the automatic return in case of signal loss deserves particular attention in a marine environment. Your drone's RTH (Return To Home) function should be set up carefully, as the take-off point moves if your boat is sailing or drifting. Some recent drones offer a “Dynamic Home Point” mode that automatically updates the return position by following your smartphone or radio control, a valuable feature for navigators. Also, set a return altitude high enough to avoid any obstacles, but not too high so as not to expose the drone to strong winds at altitude. Systematically test this function before each cruise and make sure that the drone battery always has a safety margin of at least 30% to allow a safe return.

The compatibility of the drone with marine use is an aspect that is often overlooked but crucial for the longevity of your equipment. The saline environment is extremely corrosive to electronic components, and prolonged exposure to salt can quickly damage your drone. Systematically rinse your drone with fresh water after each use at sea, even if it has not been wet, as salt spray settles everywhere. Dry it thoroughly and store it in a dry place, ideally with dehydrating bags. Some recent drones offer better resistance to water and dust (IP certification), which is a considerable advantage for regular marine use. Also check the condition of propellers, motors, and electrical connection points regularly, as salt can create deposits that affect flight performance and safety.

Security and privacy

Respecting minimum distances from people and other boats is not only a regulatory obligation, it is above all a question of safety and maritime courtesy. In Open A1 category, you should never fly over people not involved in the operation, while in category A3, you must maintain a minimum horizontal distance of 150 meters from residential, commercial, industrial or recreational areas. At sea, these rules apply to other boats, swimmers, boaters at anchor, and beach areas. Always maintain a comfortable safe distance, generally at least 50 meters for a small drone, and increase this distance significantly for larger boats or busy areas.

The ban on flying over protected areas or crowded beaches meets several imperatives. From an environmental point of view, drones can disturb marine fauna and birds, especially during breeding periods. Marine nature reserves and coastal protection areas generally prohibit flying over for this reason. From a public safety perspective, busy beaches are a high risk because a technical failure of the drone could cause serious injuries to swimmers. Even when flying over is not explicitly prohibited, caution dictates avoiding it as much as possible and using off-peak hours if you absolutely must film a beach or coastal area.

Data protection and respect for image rights are legal obligations that are often overlooked by drone pilots. Filming or photographing identifiable individuals without their consent may violate the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and image rights. At sea, this question comes up sharply when filming other boats or anchorages: the people on board these ships have the same right to privacy as on land. If you want to post your images on social media or use them commercially, make sure that the visible people are not identifiable, or get their explicit permission. Be especially careful with images of sailboats or yachts, as some owners are very concerned about their privacy and could take legal action if their image is damaged. One solution is to blur the faces and names of boats during post-production, or to film at a distance sufficient to make identification impossible.

Penalties for non-compliance with regulations

Possible fines and administrative penalties for non-compliance with drone regulations can be particularly severe and vary considerably depending on the nature of the offense. In France, criminal sanctions for illegal use of a drone are defined by the Transport Code and can reach a fine of 75,000 euros and a year's imprisonment in the most serious cases, in particular in the case of overflying a prohibited area for security or defense reasons. For more common offenses such as non-compliance with the maximum flight height, the lack of registration of the drone or the lack of training, the fixed fines generally range between 150 and 750 euros. Authorities can also order the confiscation of the drone and associated equipment, which represents a significant financial loss for the owner.

Real cases of offenses at sea are multiplying with the democratization of drones among boaters. In 2023, a navigator was fined off the coast of Toulon for flying his drone near a French Navy military building, an offense considered particularly serious due to security implications. Another high-profile case concerned a pilot who filmed crowded beaches on the French Riviera from his boat during the high tourist season, without respecting safety distances or forbidden zones. He was fined 1,200 euros and a temporary ban on flying a drone. In marinas too, several offenses have been noted, including take-offs and landings without the authorization of the port master, leading to fines and sometimes bans on access to the port.

The importance of insurance and liability cannot be underestimated when it comes to using a drone. In France and the European Union, taking out specific civil liability insurance for drones is mandatory, whether you use your device for leisure or professional purposes. This insurance covers damage that your drone could cause to third parties, whether it's personal injury, property damage, or privacy breaches. Multi-risk home insurance sometimes includes coverage for recreational drones, but check the conditions and exclusions carefully, as many exclude use at sea or abroad. For regular practice from your boat, it is often preferable to take out specialized insurance that will explicitly include maritime and international use. Always keep a copy of your insurance certificate with your drone, as authorities may request it during a check, and its absence may result in an additional fine.

Helpful resources

To navigate the regulatory labyrinth of drones at sea, several official resources and practical applications are essential. The website of the General Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGAC) is the main reference for France, with a section dedicated to drones where you will find all the information on regulations, registration procedures and procedures for obtaining specific authorizations. The AlphaTango portal not only allows you to register your drone and obtain your operator number, but also to pass the theoretical remote-pilot exams and to make your activity declarations if you use your drone professionally.

At European level, the site of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) offers an overview of harmonized regulations and links to the national authorities of each Member State. This resource is particularly useful when you plan to sail in several European countries and want to understand the national specificities of each. EASA also publishes practical guides and guidance documents that clarify complex regulatory aspects.

For mapping airspaces and verifying authorized areas in real time, several digital tools stand out. The French Geoportal offers a map layer dedicated to airspace restrictions for drones, accessible free of charge and regularly updated. This map makes it possible to identify permanent no-go areas, restricted areas, and information areas. The Geoportal mobile application allows you to access this information directly from your smartphone, which is very practical when you are browsing.

The DroneSpot app, already mentioned, offers an intuitive interface and global coverage of local regulations, with the ability to report new restrictions and view feedback from other users. The AIP-Drones application, developed by the Aeronautical Information Service (SIA), provides official information on air zones in metropolitan France and overseas territories. Mach7Drone is another complete French application that combines mapping of prohibited areas, weather and flight preparation assistance.

For mariners who frequently travel abroad, the UAV Forecast application integrates detailed weather information with regulatory restrictions in many countries, making it much easier to plan flights during your stopovers. Also, don't forget to consult the NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) available on the SIA website, which report temporary airspace restrictions related to particular events or military operations. This information can prevent you from unintentionally ending up in a temporary no-go zone.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about drone + boat regulations

Q1. Can you take off a drone from a pleasure boat?

Yes, it is entirely possible to get a drone off the ground from a pleasure boat, as long as you respect the regulations in force in the area where you are sailing. In France and Europe, you must ensure that your drone is registered, that you have followed the training required for the flight category concerned, and that you respect zone restrictions. The main difficulty lies in the fact that the boat constitutes a mobile platform, which requires increased vigilance during the takeoff and landing phases. Make sure your boat offers sufficient stability and provide a clear area to avoid accidents with rigging or deck equipment.

Q2. Do you need special permission to film at sea?

For recreational use with a drone that meets the criteria of the Open category (less than 25 kg, visual flight, maximum height of 120 meters), no special authorization is generally required to film at sea, provided that zone bans and safety regulations are respected. On the other hand, if you use your drone in a professional setting, even for simple commercial photography, you must have taken the appropriate steps with the DGAC, in particular a declaration of activity. If you plan to film near sensitive areas such as military ports, strategic installations, or marine natural parks, prior authorization may be required. It is always recommended to contact the maritime prefecture competent for specific operations or near potentially sensitive areas.

Q3. What should I do if the drone falls into the water?

If your drone falls into the water, the first reaction should be to turn off the battery immediately if you manage to recover it quickly, in order to avoid short circuits. Unfortunately, most consumer drones are not waterproof and contact with salt water usually results in irreversible damage. If you pick up the drone within the first few seconds, remove the battery immediately, rinse all components thoroughly in fresh water to remove salt, then dry thoroughly with a soft cloth and place the drone in a container with rice or desiccant bags for at least 48 hours. Do not attempt to turn the drone back on until it is completely dry. Even with these precautions, the chances of recovery remain low with salt water. This is why “breakage and theft” insurance including immersion can be a wise investment for sailors. Some pilots also attach a float or emergency flotation device to the drone to facilitate its recovery in the event of a fall.

Q4. Can you use a drone to spot schools of fish?

The use of a drone to locate schools of fish is technically possible and practiced by some fishermen, especially in sport fishing. However, this practice raises several regulatory and ethical questions. From a legal point of view, if you use the drone in the context of a commercial fishing activity, it can be considered a professional use requiring the appropriate certifications and declarations. From a sporting point of view, the use of a drone to locate fish is considered unfair in many fishing competitions and may be prohibited by specific regulations. The potential impact on wildlife must also be taken into account: flying over certain areas repeatedly can disturb seabirds and marine mammals that also hunt these schools of fish. If you choose to use your drone for this activity, do so in moderation and in accordance with local regulations, which may prohibit or limit this practice in certain regulated fishing areas or in marine protected areas.

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