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:

1. 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.
2. 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.