Since the first easing of our Government’s Covid-19 restrictions, us sailors, boater, canoeists, paddle boarders, dinghy sailors and motor boaters etc, have been able to fulfil a long desired dream of time out on the water, in England – the devolved administrations are acting a little differently, as are some English regions.

However, the requirement to return to main home and not to a 2nd home or caravan and that includes pleasure craft, remains in force. The requirement is unambiguous and straightforward.

I have been asked by numerous members at my own sailing club about whether or not one can go out overnight and became, quite frankly, pretty fed up with answering the same question, when the writing is as clear as can be. I have also seen pictures of moored craft at night in Stangate Creek across the Thames inside the River Medway – made me angry: I too would like to potter off for a few days – harmless to me and others, but…

Out for a sail on the tide the other day, I was passed by a yacht returning up the Ray – it must have been: it could not have got away from its mooring before I left my creek…

The boat will remain nameless … when pictured, I was homing in on a tern sitting on the red buoy before becoming aware of the craft’s approach.

Passing, I challenged the helm … unrepentant as hell … it made us both quite cross: we’ve endeavoured to be as strict as we can in adhering to requirements. With a boat sitting ready, it has been hard!

I wrote to the Port of London Authority to give their verdict on requirements.

This was the response I have received and although this is the port of London’s view it is the view of all known marine organisations and harbour authorities:

Thank you for your email of 27 May 2020.

I have discussed your query with colleagues – we agree that your interpretation of the current government covid / coronavirus guidelines is correct.

If we take those government guidelines as the starting point, then it may be helpful if I quote these verbatim:

·       “You should stay at home as much as possible”

·       “Leaving your home – the place you live – to stay at another home is not allowed”

·       “Day trips to outdoor open space, in a private vehicle, are permitted”

·       “Leaving your home – the place you live – to stay at another home for a holiday or other purpose is not allowed. This includes visiting second homes”.

My source is this government website – dated 22 May 2020:  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do

The RYA is also publishing information on the government guidelines. See: https://www.rya.org.uk/newsevents/news/Pages/coronavirus-advice-and-information-for-recreational-boaters.aspx

Kind regards

Martin Garside

Port of London Authority

Thank you, thank you, Martin: I was beginning to think it was me!

We had a glorious sail, meeting up with some friends who had just been able get their lovely little yacht, Poppy, launched that morning.

Poppy’s crew took a number of lovely shots as we briefly sailed in close quarters… We were out for a further 3/4 of an hour before sailing into our creek, under head sail, and berthing without resort to power. Lovely!

I have since also accessed the Royal Yachting Association guidance for recreational sailors/boaters etc.

As you will see it is as clear as it can possibly be, vis, picture of a house, GO HOME!

So, fellow sailors, forget ‘Cummings’ and others, do your bit properly and don’t be part of a set-back, please…

Warning: Dated, Wednesday 24 June 2020

Today, from a reliable source within the yachting literati, I received news that I have been accused of informing the police about a certain sailor being away from home. This was after the person(s) concerned received a visit from the police.

The person concerned stated that I have mentioned their name(s) in this post.

I wish to state publicly that I have not and would not contact the police on this matter.

I deliberately did not name any boater in my post.

I have also been told that there is a desire to burn my books from that person and others!

I have also been informed that a person has stated that given the opportunity they will burn Whimbrel.

Currently I am treating this threat lightly, however, if further reports reach me I will not hesitate to contact the police.

A fellow sailor today called to me that they have been hearing many stories relating to me and this post. He said people are ‘so sad’.

This is a sad reflection on the so called ‘caring society’ that we live in.

Guilt is caustic, I do hope those that feel this way reflect.