Guernsey boaters back to sea
Recreational boat owners (using any type of vessel, whether motorised or not) are now permitted to use their boats in local waters for recreational purposes as part of their two hours of exercise and recreation away from their homes, according to Guernsey Harbours.
In a Local Notices to Mariners, the stipulated conditions include:
The vessel has been checked and inspected thoroughly before putting to sea. This should include ensuring that all boat systems and engines are operating correctly, and all equipment is in date and operating as it should. This is particularly important in order to minimise the need for the emergency services to be mobilised potentially placing them and the boat owner at risk.
Boat skippers may only be accompanied by persons permanently residing at the same address or, where the vessel is sufficiently large to maintain social distancing, with one other person from a different household.
It is anticipated that a significant number of boaters will want to take advantage of this relaxation on the first few suitable tides. Boat skippers are urged to exercise good seamanship, courtesy, patience and common sense as they move in and out of marinas. Guernsey Harbours’ dories will be operating in the marinas for the first few tides to monitor activity.
Full details can be found here.
I am a boat owner and desperate to get back to sailing but I’m struggling to see the justification for sailing to be the exception to the rule. If it forms part of a structured easing of lockdown measures then I will welcome it elsewhere across the UK. Until then I’ll continue to grin and bear it.
Have a 26 ft jet boat it’s in perfect condition engine look after it well . Don’t see how can go out on my own really feed up . It’s making me feel really depressed have spent lot money on it never thought would come to this . Look at the shops they stand right beside each other in wee out at sea away from people what is the point.
Excellent news. You know it makes sense!
When will UK Mainland follow suit?
Going sailing is just the same as sitting in ones house in lockdown. Though sailing would relieve some of the boredom and mental stress issues which may arise . Sailing can provide better social distancing providing you return to your own port of call.