Recreational craft allowed out again

Boat owners will be allowed to take their recreational craft out from this weekend following a relaxation of restrictions.

Restrictions on recreational craft owners introduced by the Scottish government back in March have now been relaxed and amended by new advice issued.

Unrestricted outdoors exercise and non-contact outdoor activities were allowed from Friday as long as people adhere to social distancing measures, including angling, kayaking, water sports and outdoor swimming.

The council’s ports and harbours service has confirmed the change in a notice to mariners regarding Covid-19 restrictions and marine leisure activities.

Ancillary activities such as boat lifting will remain restricted subject to submission of lifting plans and risk assessments.

Operation of facilities in support of commercial craft are not affected by the current measures.

The RNLI has called on the public to “stay safe” following the easing of lockdown, adding that restrictions being relaxed did “not mean our coasts are safe, the dangers that have always been there remain”.

The Aith lifeboat encouraged Shetlanders to “take care and stay safe at sea” while the coastguard also reminded people to “take care in these extraordinary times”.

ONE COMMENT

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  • John Thomas

    • May 31st, 2020 11:58

    I for one am mightily relieved. I am a keen, if somewhat slow, kayaker and have missed the fresh ocean air and exercise. Having done some research on the internet, I had made my own ‘land kayaking’ rig during lockdown. First, I placed the kayak on the garage floor. Next, I attached both ends of the paddles to bungee cords, fore and aft. These were then tensioned to hooks in the walls, giving a sense of resistance to each paddle stroke. This quickly became dull, so I rigged up the computer monitor at the front and played drone footage of the world’s oceans, listening to sea shanties. This was great exercise and fun. Our beloved grandson even rocked the boat to give the impression of being ‘at sea’. He did throw ice cold water in my face, but this was taking things too far in my opinion and stern words were had. Anyway, I digress. Great news at getting out on the water again!

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