WILLEMSTAD — During the activities of Bonaire Regatta 2012 the Coastguard will hold strict controls and uphold the prevailing regulations and permits for the boats.

Many boats from Curaçao will also sail to Bonaire. There will be much traffic between both islands from October 5^th to October 14^th. To maintain the safety at sea the Coastguard together with Customs, police, Immigration and Royal Military Police will hold strict controls. These controls will mainly focus on the necessary ship’s papers, safety means on board the boats and the public order and safety at sea.

Jet ski’s will be controlled without exception. The drivers will be addressed and are to present valid permits, owner’s papers and an ID. If drivers can’t present these they will be booked and their jet ski confiscated. It is absolutely prohibited to sail to Bonaire with a jet ski alone, in groups or under escort. The Coastguard will take action if this prohibition is ignored. Jet ski’s will be confiscated without exception with reckless behavior.

Regulations

Both sides of the boat are to have the registration letters and numbers; captains are to have the correct papers and permits; reckless sailing near swimming areas or jetties is prohibited, apart from a case of force majeure; all boats must have a registration card not older than five years and captains are not allowed to sail under the influence of alcohol or drugs.