Cup Match Holiday Marine Safety Advisory
“Throughout the Cup Match holiday weekend, the Coastguard will be undertaking a host of initiatives to ensure the safety of the marine community,” officials said today.
In a joint statement, the Bermuda Police Service and Royal Bermuda Regiment said, “The Bermuda Police Service supported by the Bermuda Reserve Police and working in conjunction with the Royal Bermuda Regiment under the newly formed Bermuda Coastguard are anticipating a busy weekend on the water.
“In the absence of the Cricket Game it is anticipated that Bermudians will be flocking to the beaches and getting out on the water. As part of our “no surprises” approach to planning for this weekend the Bermuda Coastguard has asked that the public keep safety in mind and remember to follow the COVID19 Emergency Powers Regulations and guidelines whilst still enjoying the Cup Match holiday.
“Throughout the Cup Match holiday weekend, the Coastguard will be undertaking a host of initiatives to ensure the safety of the marine community both in the area of COVID19 transmission and also to guard against the kinds of anti-social behaviour and violence we have witnessed in public places since the end of Shelter in Place.
“There will be heightened focus on offences such as operating a vehicle whilst under the influence of drink or drugs, speeding and particular focus will be on jet ski operators who ride dangerously in areas where there are swimmers and raft ups.
“Whilst understanding the wish to party whilst out on the water we urge the boating public to be considerate to other boat operators and houses nearby when playing music, especially late at night. We ask that you be courteous to other members of the public when playing music on the water.
“To help in keeping our Marine environment pristine please think before you dispose of your trash in the water.
Public Health [COVID-19] regulations
- “Social distancing on boats and during raft ups, is required and masks should be worn if 3-ft distancing cannot be maintained.
- “Raft-Ups must not exceed 50 people.
Access prohibited
“Of significance is the Marine Board [Control Over Maritime Traffic] Notice 2020, which prohibits jet skis from entering or operating in specific areas of water, with effect from 5 am on Thursday 30th July through to 10pm Sunday, 2nd August, 2020.
“These areas include the waters commonly known as Paradise Lakes as well as all territorial waters between:
- Hawkins Island.
- Nelly Island.
- Ports Island.
- Long Island.
- Beta Island.
- Gamma Island.
- Delta Island.
- Epsilon Island.
- Zeta Island.
- Iota Island.
- Eta Island.
- Marshalls Island.
- Fern Island.
Buoy line placement
“Vessel operators are advised that in the interest of safety, they are to avoid Clarence Cove at Admiralty House Park, as there will be a buoy line installed at that location.
“A line of buoys will be installed, at Shelly Bay also, to create a safe swimming zone and to keep marine vessels out of that zone.
Water Safety
“The boating public are reminded to File a Float Plan with a friend or the Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre before leaving shore and are to adhere to the following regulations:
- Boaters are to not to exceed the 5-knot speed limit and must operate at a speed such that no wake is created within 100 meters from shore,
- Boaters must carry appropriate safety equipment for the size of the vessel,
- Boaters must have a life jacket for every person on board,
- A working VHF radio must be carried where required,
- Navigation lights must be in working order.
“Finally, we thank the public for their consideration and in keeping with the celebratory nature of the holiday to moderate their behaviour and keep the health and safety of their fellow Bermudians in mind. Help us keep Bermuda Safe this holiday.”
Read More About
Category: All
