Overnight stays from 4th July

Published: Wednesday, 24 June 2020

BOATERS will in July be able at long last be able to stay overnight in their boats and take long cruises.

This is in line with the latest government advice for England issued yesterday, 23rd June, and will take effect on Saturday 4th July.  Holiday hire boat companies too will also be able to freely operate, taking precautions around safe practice, such as extra cleaning.

Fully open

Canal & River Trust states this means the waterways in England will be fully open from 4th July for boating, angling and paddle sports. Notwithstanding the restrictions and stoppages.

In Wales, the restrictions on staying local will be lifted on 6th July, but only if conditions allow. A range of options for the reopening of self-contained holiday accommodation, such as boats, will be considered in a review on 9th July.

However, boaters are expected to follow the updated advice around social distancing, keeping at least one metre from both other people and moored boats where people may be living aboard.

Boaters asked to 'move aside'

Canal & River Trust is asking boaters to  'please move aside to allow others to pass safely, using the full width of the path'.  And if you are a cyclist, please remember that pedestrians always have priority, so take it steady and be ready to slow down to give way to others, including those by their boats or fishing.

Somewhat late, the Trust is also suggesting towpath users 'may want to consider using an alternative route away from the towpath for your exercise if you want to avoid other people'.