The Tribune

By YOURI KEMP

Tribune Business Reporter

ykemp@tribunemedia.net

Jet ski operators yesterday blasted as “foolishness” the continuing COVID-19 restrictions that prevent their sector from operating amid the tourism industry’s re-opening and rising visitor numbers.

Astra Nottage, director of sales and marketing for My Own Watersports, told Tribune Business she is “disappointed” that the government’s emergency orders still prohibit jet skis from operating especially given that it has been shown COVID-19 is less likely to be spread in outdoor settings.

“Our operations are fully accountable given that all of our sales are conducted digitally,” she added. “We have implemented a COVID-19 declaration form to ensure all guests who book the activities are in good health. Our guests are transported within their travel cohorts and have little contact with our agents, and are returned in the same manner.

“Additional protocols including masks and sanitisation have been implemented as well. In the unlikely event that a guest or employee has been in contact with a COVID-19 positive person, we are able to contact trace as all guests provide their full name, phone number, e-mail address and hotel.”

Ms Nottage continued: “With the minister of tourism noting that tourism is on a positive trajectory, we could only hope that the providers could be considered. Our business is being hammered.

“We are willing and able to operate within guidelines and regulations, should they be implemented. A blanket approach prohibiting tourist activities not only affects businesses and Bahamian families, it discourages tourists who are complaining about the lack of activity and wanting to enjoy our beautiful island. We do hope that the government takes a more comprehensive look at this and offers a viable solution.”

Kamar Chandon, general manager of KC Watersports, said that while his jet ski operations are closed down he still has the boating side of his business to keep it afloat.

He acknowledged, however, that some of his jet ski employees have found other jobs and does not expect them to come back to an industry that may be shut down at a moment’s notice due to COVID-19 concerns.

Mr Chandon said: “The only thing I could do is reach out to them in the event anything changes. But for now everything is on hold.”

Another jet ski operator, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the business fields “a lot of calls every day” from tourists looking for something to do on their vacation. They have to direct them to the Ministry of Tourism for an explanation as to why they cannot enjoy water sports activities.

The operator said: “With tourism starting to turn around this prohibition on jet ski operators is pure foolishness.”