The IWAI is the respected voice of the waterway user, lobbying and advising national and local government authorities as well as other bodies on all matters connected with the waterways including pollution and future developments.
Competitions help to raise standards of boatmanship, seaworthiness and safety afloat.
The IWAI publishes a quarterly newsletter , sent out free to all members, which brings local events, activities and developments into national perspective. Some of the branches bring out local newsletters. Every member is affiliated to a local branch and each branch is represented on a national Council. This branch organisation is intended to encourage members to actively participate in Association activities at a local level.