Boating & Cottaging in the Age of COVID-19
When it comes to cottage country and COVID-19, you may be asking yourself questions like;
Can mosquitos transmit the virus?
What are the rules on the water, beaches, marinas?
Where in Muskoka are masks mandatory?
If you’re curious about how to enjoy your summer on the water boating, beaching, and exploring while still upholding the proper health and safety precautions during this pandemic, read on for answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
Those Pesky Insects
It’s true, social distancing isn’t a thing if you’re a mosquito.
These noisy, pesky bugs are out in force; apparently they didn’t get the W.H.O.’s #stayathome message. Still, according to the pros, boaters and cottagers don’t have to worry. “Members of the coronavirus family (SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2) are not transmitted by insects,” Jason Kindrachuk told Cottage Life recently. He’s an Assistant Professor and Canada Research Chair in emerging viruses at the University of Manitoba—where, incidentally, there’s no shortage of mosquitoes. So, while we don’t have to love or even like mosquitoes and black flies, as cottagers and boaters we don’t have to fear them, either.
Just remember to grab the bug spray!
Life On The Water
Boating in Ontario has surged during the pandemic, especially as the weather started heating up in May and June. What a great way to physically distance - anchored in a sheltered bay fishing or exploring the coastline of the many lakes and rivers in Muskoka. New and used boat sales are also experiencing an uptick, with new boaters keen to get on the water.
Dolf and I love to see new boaters and young families getting out on the lake and experiencing the joy and excitement of boating. Our family grew up on the lake, in the boat, swimming and water skiing, it has always been a big part of our summers and a great way to spend quality time with family. Even though she’s only two our granddaughter Olive loves every minute on the water!
How to Social Distance: Boats, Locks, Beaches & Marinas
Marinas, beaches, and locks in Muskoka have been open since the May long weekend. Boat rentals, fuel, groceries, gifts, lifts… all of it is now available at marinas and lakeside facilities for the summer. But there are protocols and best practices boaters need to follow that differ from past summers. Boating Ontario has released a list of best practices while boating. They include:
- Only boat with those in your immediate household or Social Circle.
- Pre-arrange fuelling, and maintain distance from others at fuel/service docks.
- Keep your distance on the water, no rafting.
- Don’t beach, moor or dock your boat too close to another boat.
And while locks, beaches, and marinas are open across the Muskoka District, boaters should note that docks and handles are not sanitized, and you should use at your own risk. It is also important to know that at most marinas staff are accepting cashless payments only and visitors are being asked to practice physical distancing and respect all onsite signage.
Stage 2 Protocols in Effect for Muskoka
Finally, Muskoka health officials continue to remind cottagers and boaters of Stage 2 protocols while visiting Muskoka. We remind you to please continue to:
- Maintain physical distancing of at least two metres from anyone not in your household or your Social Circle,
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly,
- Wear a mask in settings where you can not maintain distance such as public areas or stores,
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your sleeve, and
- Monitor your health for symptoms and please stay home if you feel ill.
For more information on safe boating practices in Muskoka and beyond, see www.boatingontario.ca
Dolf and I recognize that it can be a bit overwhelming to understand all of the new and ever-changing COVID-19 protocols in the Muskoka District, which is why we wanted to share some of these best practices with you for enjoying your time on and off the lake.
We expect this summer in Muskoka to be a bit different with new rules and new ways of doing some of the things that we love, like boating, but we truly believe that with respect, space and safety in mind we will get through this and enjoy the summer at the same time!
— Dolf and Anzie Witlox
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