PLANS TO LIFT LOCKDOWN FOR BOATING
HOMENEWSCOVID-19PLANS TO LIFT LOCKDOWN FOR BOATING
04 May 2020
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Private boating is now allowed around Guernsey
Guernsey and Ireland are making tentative preparations to lift the COVID-19 lockdown.
The Irish Taoiseach has issued a five point plan to re-open the country in a phased way whilst Guernsey has issued guidance to recreational boat owners.
The five point plan in Ireland has been broadly welcomed by the sailing community although clarity is needed. From 18 May, outdoor spaces and tourism sites in Ireland can re-open, a move which has largely been seen by marinas as allowing them also to re-open. Phase 2 from 8 June will put boats back on the water for sailing and training and Phase 3 beginning on 29 June might allow racing to restart. Phase 4 on 20 July will see sports competitions resume with limitations on spectator numbers whilst phase 5 on 10 August sees a further relaxation with gyms re-opening and close physical contact sports and festivals resuming, again with caveats such as regular cleaning and social distancing.
Guernsey
Recreational boat owners in Guernsey will now be able to use their boats in local waters provided the latest weather forecast has been obtained, the vessel inspected before use and all surfaces and objects frequently cleaned. Social distancing must be followed with skippers only accompanied by members of their own household or, where the boat is large enough to allow social distancing, one other person from a different household.
Landing on Alderney, Sark and Herm is not currently permitted and skippers and crew are advised that they must self-isolate for 14 days if they make landfall outside of the Bailiwick’s waters.