On Sunday, April 27, the weather was wonderful and this was also evident on the water. The waters of Westland and Midden-Delfland were busy. Nautical units from the police unit in The Hague were also found on the water. They checked many vessels and while many skippers had everything in order, many warnings were issued and one person was arrested for various offenses.
 

Warnings

For example, there were six skippers sailing without a kill cord. This is mandatory for every boat that goes faster than 20 kilometers per hour that does not have a closed steering cabin. This is a safety device that ensures the engine shuts off if the skipper falls overboard. This prevents boats from sailing unattended on the water and is therefore an essential safety device for every skipper. Not using this cord can result in a fine of 290 euros.

Seven warnings were also issued to skippers for speeding. Aside from the fact that speeding is dangerous for those on board, the waves it causes can cause significant damage to other boats and houseboats. A fine for speeding can quickly add up and starts at 110 euros.
 

Arrest

A skipper was arrested for sailing under the influence. This skipper was also speeding and had none of the mandatory safety equipment such as a fire extinguisher or life jacket on board. Ultimately, this suspect was presented for sailing under the influence and received fines for speeding and not having the aforementioned kill cord. With an afternoon of sailing, this skipper got into serious trouble.
 

Keep it safe and enjoyable on the water for everyone

We are at the beginning of the sailing season, so it will get busier on the water in the coming time. This requires not only consideration for each other but also awareness of the sailing rules and safety aspects on the water, such as:
 

• Do not suddenly change course.
• Ensure you have good visibility around you and check behind you regularly.
• Use the correct navigation lights in time.
• Maintain peace in nature and residential areas.
• Limit excessive noise from radios and other music systems.
• Do not cause nuisance to your surroundings.
• A boating license is required for operating fast motorboats. This applies to all boats that can sail faster than 20 km/h. The boating license requirement also applies to non-fast boats longer than 15 meters.
• Sail alcohol-free. The legal limit on the water is 0.5 per mille. There will be checks, and fines are high!