England Reopens Recreational Boating
All forms of watersports including the use of privately owned powerboats, were allowed to resume in England as of yesterday. The United Kingdom government confirmed that “All forms of watersports practiced on open waterways, including sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing, kayaking, surfing and the use of privately-owned motorized craft (in line with the guidance issued by the relevant navigation authority) are allowed.”
England Only
According to International Boating Industry magazine, the neighboring countries of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are still closed to recreational boating. England’s decision is part of the UK government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy for the country that provides specific information as to what citizens can and can’t do.
The population is encouraged to exercise outdoors and is allowed to drive to outdoor open spaces. The news has been welcomed by the trade association British Marine, which is made up of more than 1,600 members in the pleasure, superyacht and commercial marine industries.
Boating Guidelines
British Marine says that many of its members have not had the chance to implement the measures set by the government to manage the gathering of people at their businesses, so the association developed its own rules.
They start with planning ahead and avoiding areas that could draw crowds. Check with a business to make sure marinas are open and that facilities like fuel docks and pumpout stations are operational.
Maintain social distancing from other boats and only travel with members of the immediate household and only if no one in the group is displaying symptoms of the virus.
Have a plan in place if mechanical difficulties arise. Emergency services may be limited so response times could be longer. Follow safe boating rules and always wear a lifejacket on the water.
Because the government still does not allow citizens to stay at another home for a vacation, British Marine recommends that boaters not spend the night on their vessels.