The sea is an area of freedom, why forbid me?
At the risk of repeating ourselves, we are in a position of containment, so any exit should only be for vital imperatives. (to eat, to take care of oneself and for some to go to work).
All sailors agree that alone in the middle of the waves, there is no risk of contaminating each other. But if a problem occurs on board, the situation can become very complex for two reasons.
First of all, if a case of Covid-19 is suspected on board, it is very complicated for rescuers to assist someone who potentially has the coronavirus. There are a lot of precautions to take.
The Maritime Prefect has just banned all yachting, tourism and water-based leisure activities in the French Mediterranean until 31 March next. On the Atlantic coast, the Cross Corsen calls for citizenship of users at sea.
The slightest intervention will mobilize the medical teams, to the detriment of other patients potentially affected by Covid-19. This is a critical period, we must fight together, and leave aside our personal desires.
Land-based health care workers already have the greatest difficulty in obtaining basic necessities (masks, gel, disposable coveralls). The same is true for the SNSM, whose finances are already stretched to the limit. The SNSM can also be mobilised to provide medical evacuation in the many islands along the French coast, and may not have the operational capacity to come to the rescue of a yachtsman. This also concerns port and marina personnel, who have a legitimate right to stay in their homes and be safe from contagion.
Solidarity and mutual aid are values dear to all sailors. Let's try not to forget them.
Take the opportunity to prepare for your next trip
This is the time to prepare your future itinerary or to read up on a little-known subject. Internet is a great media library of tutorials or pedagogical articles on different themes: maneuvers , seamanship , mechanical , fishing tips .
If you are planning to rent a boat this summer, the reservation services of some charter companies are still available. Start chatting with your future crew.
Unless you have it in your backyard, you can't go tinkering on your boat. But you can always anticipate a purchase of materials. Shipchandlers are closed to the public, but their online sales sites are still operational.
You can also perfect your nautical culture by re-reading the countless articles available on boats.com !
