Introduction
Following the announcement that the Bailiwick of Guernsey has entered lock down on 24 January 2021, the following document provides guidance for members of the public who own leisure vessels, intend to dive recreationally or own non-powered craft such as kayaks, canoes and paddle boards.
Hazard Identification
- Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus.
- Recently identified variants of the virus that cause COVID-19 have recently been identified and appear to be more transmissible.
- The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes
- The virus can survive for up to 72 hours out of the body on contaminated surfaces.
- People can pick up the virus by breathing in the droplets or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their eyes, mouth and face.
- Aerosol transmission of the virus can occur in enclosed, poorly ventilated environments.
Recreational Boating
- Recreational boat owners (using any type of vessel, whether motorised or not) are permitted to use their boats in local waters for recreational purposes subject to the following conditions:
- The latest weather and shipping forecasts has been obtained and 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 our emergency services and Guernsey Coastguard to be mobilised potentially placing them and you at risk.
- Boat owners may undertake this activity with members of their household or with one other person when two metre social distancing can be maintained.
- Boat owners are limited to up to two hours water-based activities in every 24-hour period.
- Refuelling is permitted but only adhering to the strict social distancing rules currently in place and ensuring continued good hygiene practices including the use of gloves whilst handling refuelling equipment. The wearing of a face mask is strongly recommended whilst inside any premises.
- Surfaces and objects that are touched regularly should be frequently cleaned and disinfected thoroughly using appropriate products and equipment on board the vessel.
- Attention is also drawn to the Skipper and crew of any vessel, which makes landfall outside of the Bailiwick's territorial waters that they must observe Customs regulations as well as following the requirement to self-isolate for 14 days immediately upon return as set out in separate guidance for travel.
- These requirements have also been published by the Guernsey Harbourmaster via Local Notices to Mariners (LNTM). Vessel owners are required to check the latest local notices regularly for updated instructions and changes, before putting to sea, using the Guernsey Harbours' website: http://www.harbours.gg/Guernsey-Navigation-Warnings-Notices. These are also published on the Guernsey Harbours' Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Herm, Sark and Alderney
Herm, Sark and Alderney are currently closed to recreational boats.
Recreational Diving
Recreational diving is not currently permitted.
Kayaking, Canoeing and Paddle boarding
Kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding is permitted within the daily two hours of exercise.
Members of the public are asked to check the latest weather forecast, tides and advise someone when/where you are going and when you are due back ashore.
Members of the public may undertake these activities with members of their household or with one other person when two metre social distancing can be maintained.
All equipment should be properly secured after use in order to minimise the need for our emergency services to be mobilised potentially placing them and you at risk.
Further Information
Guernsey Harbours Queries
- Guernsey Harbour Office telephone: 01481 720229
- Duty Harbour Master telephone (emergency only): 01481 713166
COVID-19 Queries
- Coronavirus Helpline 01481 756938 or 01481 756969