Canal and River Trust unpicks Covid-19 guidelines

Following the government’s update on Covid-19 last night, the Canal and River Trust has updated its guidance for boaters.

It believes that all navigation in England should remain limited to essential use only.

Boaters who are not currently occupying their boat should not take short overnight breaks on their boat. Those living aboard are advised to limit their navigation, moving only a minimal amount to access essential facilities or services when necessary.

The trust is keen to point out that it’s waiting for further confirmation but believes there will be no changes in place until, potentially, the 29 March.

That’s when it is anticipated that the official stay at home order will end, but people will be encouraged to stay local. Limited local boat movement may be possible but you should avoid travelling if your boat is not located close to where you live, and only those living aboard are permitted to make an overnight stay.

From no earlier than 12 April, holiday lets are expected to reopen. The trust believes that at this point cruising can be done freely and overnight stays on boats and holiday hire boating will be allowed, as long as people are in one household or support bubble.

From no earlier than 17 May, the trust says indoor mixing on boats will be allowed with up to six people or, if it is more people, two households.

This applies to England.