18 NATCHEZ ON THE WATERFRONT
Covid-19: from locking down to casting off
By Dan Natchez* T
he pandemic has definitely changed the world and resulted in some kind of new normal for most of
us – albeit a normal that keeps changing. The good news is that following the near total lockdown of Spring, 2020, recreational boating has largely reopened throughout the world for continuing, returning and new boaters, although the specific rules and approach differs depending upon localities. The water is still mystical and inviting, and has its own power to heal the pandemic’s everyday thoughts and concerns.
In this not quite post-pandemic
era, there are many ways to help jump-start recreational boating, but the key of course was simply being
other activities have been cancelled or closed down. Trips abroad or cross-country, especially by plane, have largely been cancelled in the USA, but the new normal has also created a desire to end feelings of isolation and confinement, and to get out and find safe avenues of enjoyment.
Dealers offer rentals on all sorts of craft such as this pontoon boat, which is cleaned and made safe after each use.
able to open. Once that hurdle was crossed, a number of things started falling into place. Social distancing is the norm
today and large gatherings are problematic at best and infectious at worst. Social events, camps, concerts, schools and numerous
Current trends Some of the current trends are that many have left urban areas for more distant locations, whether it is to second homes, actually moving or just renting cabins for vacations. Significant portions of the population are now working from home and looking for ways to ‘escape the pent up feeling’ and ‘find relaxation’.
Recreational boating satisfies a desire to end feelings of isolation and confinement. MARINA INDUSTRY • OCTOBER 2020
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