There is some good news for boaters as the Trent-Severn Waterway is set to open for navigation on Friday morning.
Boats will be allowed through the waterway starting at 9:00 a.m., but there are a number of COVID-19-related rules in place.
They include:
- Lockage: Boaters are expected to be in full care and control of their vessels and to maintain two metres distance from staff and other boaters at all times during lockage. Mask use is mandatory within two metres of staff or visitors. Boaters requiring assistance with lockage must identify their concerns to lockstaff prior to entering the chamber. Boaters must at all times follow instructions from lockstaff who are always readily available to ensure a safe and efficient experience for all visitors.
- Mask Mandatory for Service: Mask use is mandatory for visitors in situations where they will be within two metres of Parks Canada team members or other visitors, including if they require assistance when locking through. Masks are also required for the use of washrooms at lock stations and during sales transactions.
- Maintain Social Distancing: Visitors must respect the safety of others at all times by maintaining their distance from other visitors and Parks Canada team members. Please respect the roped off areas on the lock walls that provide a safe working space for staff.
- No Large Gatherings: Gatherings that are not consistent with provincial COVID-19 restrictions are prohibited on Parks Canada lands along the Trent-Severn Waterway.
- Use Cashless Payment: For the purchase of permits, please use cashless payment whenever possible.
Parks Canada also says the Peterborough Lift Lock will only be allowing one complete up and down transfer per day, until the end of June, meaning boaters will have to disembark their vessels while the transfer is underway.
