Coronavirus & boating update, 11 May 2020

Hello Barry,

With the Government announcing a first step in lifting restrictions on outdoor activities, and allowing people to drive to spend time outdoors with members of the same household, from Wednesday, the Trust is lifting any remaining restrictions on boat owners visiting their boats though the Trust advises against travelling long distances unless it is essential to do so.

At this stage we continue to advise that boats should only be used for minimal travel. Angling and watersports (canoeing, Kayaking and SUP), for exercise, can also resume on Wednesday and we are reviewing when we can restore navigation in light of the new government advice.

In the meantime, mooring exemptions are extended by a further two weeks until 23 May.

As you may have seen before the weekend, we’ve created a survey to help us understand what your plans are for boating after the lockdown. Thanks to the 4,000 or so who’ve taken part but if you haven’t yet there’s still time. You’ll find the survey here – it’ll only take a couple of minutes to complete.

As ever, we’ll be constantly reviewing, and updating, our FAQs as more detail comes from government so do please regularly check back.

Best wishes, stay safe,
Damian Kemp,
Boating communications manager,
Canal & River Trust