Boating Restrictions to be aware of during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Practicing personal responsibility and safety are essential to boating and enjoying time on the water. Till now, proper boat maintenance would ensure safety. However, since the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, your safety as well as that of your passengers and any other individuals around you could be at risk. Although many places still permit boating during these times, there are a few newer regulations and restrictions to be aware of. At PowerHouse Marina, we’re here to provide any information you might need regarding this issue.

Boating is safer when Social Distancing Restrictions are in place

Most activities on the water will be safe for you and your group. However, the right precautions are still required. For instance, all boats in Florida waters must keep a distance of no less than 50’ between them. Furthermore, keep to your small circle of individuals that you live with and interact with every day. Inviting other relatives and friends is not advised as the threat of infections still loom.

To ensure everyone’s health and safety, practice PowerHouse Marina recommends that you adhere to the following guidelines established by the CDC and WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic:

· Do not permit anyone outside your quarantine group to board your boat.

· Use hand sanitizers that contain a minimum of 60% alcohol after handling fuel pumps, gate latches, or any other high-touch surfaces.

· Wash your hands a minimum of 20 seconds with soap and water and as frequently as possible.

· Wear a cloth face mask over your mouth and nose.

· Most importantly, if you or any other individual in your party is exhibiting the signs or symptoms of the virus, contact your doctor, get tested, and remain quarantined.

Keeping your Boat clean

The coronavirus can live for hours or even days under certain conditions and on certain surfaces. So, once you’re back on land and have returned home, it’s a good idea to clean and disinfect your boat with EPA-approved products to ensure not causing any damage to the environment as well as your boat’s finish or materials. Bleach wipes or a 60% alcohol solution on a clean cloth should be used to wipe down all buttons, controls, handles, seat arms, etc. Prevention is always better than cure.

Miami-Dade County boat launches are open from 6 AM to 10 PM daily. Only one boat is allowed on each launch at a time and must be ready to go when launching it. If you’re curious about current closures or restrictions, check with the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife. For additional information, call PowerHouse Marina as needed. Our business representatives are available to assist you with your custom requirements.