Published on: 15 April 2021
Earlier this week England entered Step 2 in its route map out of national lockdown. This saw non-essential retail and outdoor hospitality re-open to customers. Below we explain what the changes mean for different sectors of the leisure marine industry.
For our passenger boat members, the changes mean they can now accept multiple bookings, provided each individual booking adheres to the Rule of Six or two households rule. This also applies to skippered boats, with attendees only able to go indoors to access/use the toilet.
Our members should be aware that the skipper does not count towards the Rule of Six or two households limit.
Outdoor gatherings or events, organised by a business, charity, public body or similar organisation, can be organised, subject to specific conditions: that they comply with COVID-Secure guidance including taking reasonable steps to limit the risk of transmission, complete a related risk assessment; and ensure that those attending do not mix beyond what is permitted by the social contact limits (unless another exemption exists, such as for work purposes, or supervised activities for children). The guidance for reopening businesses can be found here.
Premises used for the sale of boats, including outdoor areas, can also now re-open in line with the changes allowing non-essential retail to resume trading.
Overnight stays on boats are also permitted, provided they are hired by a single household or bubble.
British Marine members should visit our coronavirus microsite and reopening matrix for the latest information. Further sector by sector advice on the key dates can be found in the back to business section here.