VIEWING YACHTS SAFELY DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
The Association of Brokers and Yacht Agents – the professional association for yacht brokers in the UK – has issued its members with guidelines for viewings as everyone needs to take great care still and YACHTS.CO as a company are following these rules with some straightforward do’s and don’ts.
A boat cabin is a small enclosed space. Even though some easing of restrictions has started in some areas of the UK we need to ensure we don’t create a second wave. Our guidance therefore applies to all parties, so we keep you safe too.
Start by having a look at the videos of boats available on our website – they are a great way to get a better idea of what you like and could save you a number of journeys; when you have narrowed down your search we will be pleased to discuss your needs and advise you on the most appropriate boat to view; for your own safety you should not be booking viewings unless you are in a position to proceed with a purchase.
If a viewing in person is not advisable then we are able to also offer video viewings and 360 tours to help show you a better outline of any particular boat.
Our brokers are advised to allow 72 hours between viewings, giving any pathogens time to die; they are also advised not to accompany you on the viewing. The broker will open the boat up and close it afterwards. That way you/your family group, who must all be from the same household and usually a maximum of two people, can go onboard.
Do:
- Discuss your needs with the broker and book an appointment for an initial telephone call and possible video viewing before viewing in person
- Limit number of attendees to 2 people only
- Ensure you are in a position to proceed with the purchase
- Maintain a 2m social distance from anyone not in your family group
- Take and wear gloves and a protective face covering
- Take your own pen and paper to make any notes
- Take a bottle of water as you may not be able to buy one
- Take a bottle of sanitiser or anti-bac wipes
Don’t:
- Turn up announced – we are not not allowing turn-up viewings and if others have been on the boat in the last few hours it is not safe for you to go onboard.
- Touch anything if you can possibly help it.
- Put yourself at risk – if you are unsure about whether you are safe to view then it would be better to wait a few more weeks.
- Go on a viewing if you or anyone in your family group has Covid-19, or has symptoms or anyone in your family group is in the high-risk category.