Socially Distancing While Boating

In South Florida, boating season runs year round, but with the COVID-19 pandemic still raging, social distancing and other precautions are still needed to ensure everyone’s safety. Of course, when boating and yachting, safety is always a primary concern to ensure a fun, safe outing for friends and family on board. Lighthouse Point Yacht Club offers these tips for staying safe and having fun amid your fellow boaters in and around the region.

Boating is a Safe Activity

Boating is a safe activity during the age of coronavirus, but only when you follow some simple guidelines. First up, you’ll want to limit the number of individuals on your outing to those with whom you share your home. Once out on the water, you won’t be able to tie up alongside other boats or pull up alongside boats on the beach, both of which put you in too close a proximity of the occupants. When you are in close proximity to other boaters, such as at the marina, grabbing snacks for your outing, or when fueling up your vessel, you’ll want to wear you mask and practice social distancing.  If you touch any items which are used by many, like the fuel pump, a grocery cart, or the gate at the marina, be sure to use hand sanitizer or wash your hands immediately after. One final tip, pack up any gear you needs as well as all your supplies and head straight to your boat, avoiding any extra stops along the way. 

Choosing Your Destination

While boating destinations are open in and around South Florida, you’ll want check with state and local officials regarding boat landings and dock access at your favorite spots.  Technology can be a great asset in checking for crowds at your destination. From social media to live feeds at beaches and lakes, you can monitor your preferred destination and determine if you can safely social distance or should choose another spot.

Heading out early is another way to enjoy clear skies, calm seas, and smaller crowds in South Florida. Whether you want to simply cruise around, go fishing, or exploring scenic sites, an early start means you’ll likely have the spot all to yourself! If you’re heading to a popular beach or sandbar, lake, river, or estuary, social distancing may be more challenging if lots of boaters are flocking there as well. Look for some fun and beautiful alternatives, like quieter beaches a little further away along the shore, small sandbars with only room for your family, or out-of-the-way fishing spots. Keep in mind, popular boating destination abound in South Florida, but there are plenty of beautiful spots which frequented less and offer a wonderful escape for your family to enjoy.

Cleaning and Disinfecting After Boating

Like your home’s cleaning and disinfecting protocols you’ve been following, you can do the same with your boat. Follow the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations for surfaces. Choose an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved disinfectant without bleach or acids which can damage your boat’s surfaces. Remember, when using these cleaning and disinfecting solutions on canvas or vinyl, you will want to rinse following cleaning to avoid discoloration or other damages. After your disinfecting is complete, wash down your boat.

Call Lighthouse Point Yacht Club Your Home Port

Boating offers many benefits including time on the water, spending time with family and friends, and more. Even in the midst of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, you and your family can still enjoy the fun of boating safely together as well as all the amenities of Lighthouse Point Yacht Club.