2nd Attempt-Coronavirus Covid 19 and the Marine Industry

Press Release Issued from Informa...

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Following Governor Ron DeSantis’ executive order issuing a Stay-At-Home directive through April 30, the Palm Beach International Boat Show has been postponed until further notice. Our primary concern continues to be the safety and well-being of our staff, exhibitors, partners, and attendees. We are closely monitoring the latest developments regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and how it might further impact our show. As a trusted partner, we appreciate your investment with us and need to plan ahead.

In the show’s 35-year history we have never dealt with a situation such as this. The show date and status - as a result, unfortunately remain fluid under the circumstances. We continue to assess the situation and will provide a detailed update on the show’s status by April 17. We thank you for your support and patience as we continue to power through these uncharted waters.

With that said, it's everyone's business to have a healthy economy. The marine industry is an important staple of the Florida economy, accountable for over $23.3 billion. The Palm Beach International Boat Show has a total statewide economic impact of $682.7 million and supports 4,394 full-time Florida jobs. We are all eager to get back on board and help to continue contributing as a major statewide economic driver.

From all of us at Informa’s U.S. Boat Shows and the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, Inc. we look forward to continuing to work with you as our partners, customers and industry colleagues.

Sincerely,

Andrew Doole
President, Informa U.S. Boat Shows, Informa Markets

George Gentile
President, Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, Inc.

I as well, I've cancelled my cruising schedule but have still booked a seasonal spot up on the St. Lawrence Seaway (1000 Is). I can still spend time on her, do some upgrades I never have time for and do some dinghying.
Of course this is all dependant on NY allowing launch. I'm in a private club so I am hoping it all comes together.

From Chesapeake Bay Magazine:

MD. UPDATES BOATING RESTRICTIONS, VA. BOATING REMAINS LEGAL
April 7, 2020

On the Chesapeake Bay, two governors’ executive orders have created two very different guidelines for boating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In Maryland, pleasure boaters must stay off the water except for essential purposes, which the state continues to clarify. In Virginia, boaters may go out freely as long as they follow social distancing rules (more on that below).

In light of the flood of questions from Maryland boaters since Governor Larry Hogan’s stay-at-home order, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has updated its guidelines about what is and isn’t allowed, with a couple of notable changes.

Recreational boating is still forbidden in Maryland, with a few exceptions. According to DNR’s “Frequently Asked Questions about Governor Hogan’s Stay at Home Order” web page, those exceptions now include moving a boat from a marina to your home. Here’s the language DNR uses to address the issue:

“Can I move my boat or have my boat moved from a marina to my home or my boat slip?

Yes, you can have your boat moved or delivered to your residence or boat slip. While it is not necessary for drivers in Maryland to have documentation about the purpose of travel, having such documentation may help. General recreational boating is not allowed.“

The agency’s current guide also addresses traveling through Maryland by boat:

“While there are no orders limiting travel through Maryland by boat or car at this time, travelers are advised to make trips only for essential purposes.”

But DNR urges anyone traveling by boat or otherwise to avoid close contact with others in Maryland and to follow CDC guidance on domestic travel.

DNR maintains that fishing to feed yourself or your family, from shore or from a boat, is allowed as long as you follow social distancing rules and all existing fishing regulations:

“All current fishing, crabbing, and hunting rules and regulations still apply, including the requirement to have the appropriate licenses, permits and stamps.”

On its Frequently Asked Questions page, DNR says its current guidance is “subject to change throughout the duration of the public health emergency,” but the intent of Governor Hogan’s executive order is simple: “stay home unless you absolutely must leave.”

Bay Bulletin has reported on the differences between Maryland and Virginia’s current boating regulations. Virginia Governor Ralph Northam’s executive order “permits continued engagement in outdoor activities that can be beneficial to us all.” The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) and Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) says recreational boating is allowed as long as boaters maintain at least six feet from other people who aren’t family, household members, or caretakers.

Virginia bans gatherings of 10 or more people, including:

“- When present at access points for fishing or boating, whether state or locally-owned;
– The beaching of vessels on sandbars, islands or banks while out on the water;
– The “rafting” of vessels together; and the numbers of individuals present on any vessel.
– When present at outdoor recreation lands, including Wildlife Management Areas.“

Virginia says its Conservation and Marine Police officers will be monitoring water access points and activity on the water, even as recreational boating remains allowed.

” DGIF and VMRC want the outdoors to be a place of safe escape for you during this difficult time, and our ability to continue to promote this depends upon your assistance.”

Charter fishing, meanwhile, is considered a nonessential business in Virginia, say the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, and charter boats may not operate. In Maryland, on the other hand, charter fishing is considered essential as part of the food supply chain, and is allowed.

–Meg Walburn Viviano