Frequently asked questions about boating and water

Can I go boating?

Boating is allowed and so you can still go sailing. The Prime Minister has, however, asked everybody to stay at home where possible. Be sensible and do not go out unnecessarily. Recreational activities are explicitly not supposed to be pursued. Everybody is free to go out for some fresh air. Stop and think when it turns out the water is very crowded, and do the responsible thing. Only together we can defeat corona.

Do I have to keep my distance?

The 1.5 metre distance rule applies basically to everybody and everywhere, also on a boat. This rule does not apply to persons having a joint household, children under 12 years of age playing/doing sports outside under supervision or when you are with no more than two persons.

Who am I allowed to sail with?

You are not allowed to hold, organise or arrange gatherings, or to allow gatherings to develop, or to participate in such get-togethers. This rule also applies to boats. A get-together is an agreed gathering. Agreeing to go boating with friends, relatives or other families is a gathering and that is not allowed. You can therefore only sail with your joint household or a maximum of two persons who are not a joint household, including the skipper. A maximum of two persons does not constitute a gathering.

Are my children allowed to go boating?

The rules are no different for children. Sailing with friends, relatives or other families is therefore not allowed. Children are only allowed to sail with their joint household.
Water sports are subject to the same rules as other sports. Children up to and including the age of 12 are allowed to do organised and supervised (water) sports together. Children up to and including the age of 18 can also do organised and supervised (water) sports together, provided they keep a distance of 1.5 metres. Supervision must be provided by sports associations, professionals or parents.

Who supervises these rules?

Nautical enforcement authorities ensure compliance with the rules of the emergency decree. Also the nautical police can supervise compliance. Failure to follow their instructions may lead to a warning or a fine.

Can I go swimming?

Yes, you are allowed to go swimming. It is, however, not allowed to do recreational activities near swimming locations (sunbathing, play volleyball, beach tennis, etc.). The 1.5 metre-distance rule applies at all times, except for children up to and including the age of 12 supervised by parents and the exceptions made for organised sports by (water) sports clubs, professionals or parents.