Boat owners urged to respect measures still in force amid COVID-19 |27 May 2020

Boat owners and operators of vessels, in particular jet skis and speed boats, are being urged to respect social distancing and other precautionary measures still in force in relation to COVID-19 pandemic

The Seychelles Maritime Safety Authority (SMSA) wishes to notify all boat owners and operators of vessels, in particular jet skis and speed boats, that even though there is an ease on the Public Health Authority Prohibition Order, social distancing and other precautionary measures are still in force.

No person shall water ski or drive any motor boat, within 120 metres of the seashore as per section 5(1) of the Beach Control Act.

Therefore, it is imperative that the swimming and boating area across the country is respected, says SMSA in a communiqué.

“In areas where there are no yellow demarcation buoys, owners and operators of vessels are requested to maintain the designated distance and navigate with caution at all times,” the SMSA communiqué urges.

Boat owners and operators are once again reminded that the limit of 4 persons per boat if not from the same household remains in force.

It should also be noted that it is mandatory for boat owners including jet ski and speed boat operators to seek the necessary permission from applicable agencies before departing.

SMSA communiqué