Cowes Harbour Boss Slams Boaters Defying Lockdown Ahead of Easter
Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC) has praised most yachties for sticking to lockdown rules during the coronavirus crisis but doubles down on the “stay at home” message ahead of the Easter break.
Boaters Urged to Think Twice Before Hitting the Water
The CHC’s latest Local Notice to Mariners No. 10(T) of 2020, issued on April 3, reminds recreational boaters to follow Government orders on social distancing and limit outings to essential travel only. The notice backs the Royal Yachting Association’s (RYA) warning that leisure boaters risk adding pressure to emergency services if accidents happen on the water.
Harbour Master Warns: No Excuse for Leisure Trips
Capt. Stuart McIntosh, Cowes Harbour Master, made it clear: “We ask all harbour users to stick to Government instructions and stay home, especially with the bank holiday and good weather coming. Being out on the water hardly fits the Government’s four allowed reasons for going out.”
“Any boat in trouble wastes vital rescue teams, pulling them away from essential commercial and key worker vessels.”
CHC Keeps Essential Services Afloat
Despite the crisis, Cowes Harbour Commission continues to keep the harbour safe and operational. They ensure smooth sailing for mainland ferries carrying key workers, fuel, and supplies to the Island, plus all commercial imports and exports.
CHC also runs the only commercial fuel berth for emergency water services on the Island, vital during the pandemic.
“Now’s not the time for pleasure boating in Cowes,” said Capt. McIntosh. “We thank everyone for following the rules and hope to see normal leisure activity return soon. For now, safety is the priority – so please follow the advice.”
