Baker boosts boating

During this challenging time, outdoor recreation activities like recreational boating and fishing have provided a much-needed escape and opportunity for families to spend time together.

While these activities are wellsuited for socially distancing, we still all have a responsibility to make sure we’re following best practices and public health guidelines.

Recently, Governor Baker took an important step to protect boaters and communities by limiting the rafting up of boats (tying several boats together out on the water).

As the head of the New England Boat Show and an avid boater myself, I couldn’t be happier to see more folks enjoying the water this summer, but I am even more encouraged to see our governor leading on this issue and working to keep the Bay State’s waters safe.

This guidance builds on what the boating industry has continually called for and is in line with similar actions taken in Florida and Illinois.

Since the start of the pandemic, the leadership of the recreational boating community, including Discover Boating’s guidance for safe boating during COVID-19, has set in place a model for boaters across the country.

Beyond rafting, the industry advocates for wearing a mask and social distancing at marinas, and limiting your boat to only immediate members of your household.

I applaud Governor Baker’s efforts and hope this encourages others to look towards the boating industry’s guidance so that we can all continue to safely enjoy the water.

— Bob McAlpine, Show Manager, New England Boat Show