Changes to the Code of Inland Water Transport of the Russian Federation
The Federal Law of July 11, 2011 "On Amendments to the Code of Inland Water Transport of the Russian Federation," has introduced Article 23.1. The sailing of vessels with foreign flags on inland waterways.
The new article allows the sailing of vessels with foreign flags on inland waterways of the Russian Federation on the basis of international treaties of the Russian Federation and decisions made by the Russian Government.
The amendments in the Code of Inland Water Transport also allows vessels to navigate for sports, cultural and recreation purposes provided the total number of people on board does not exceed 18, including not more than 12 passengers. Sailing in these vessels with foreign flags on Russia's inland waterways is carried out in accordance with rules established by the Russian Government. At the same time these vessels must provide documents that indicate the type and purpose of the vessel and the right to sail with the flag of the country where the vessel is registered.
The government also establishes a list of ports that are opened for entry of vessels with foreign flags, and inland waterways, which are allowed for these vessels.