Antisocial behaviour and marine traffic violations are to be targeted by the Royal Bermuda Regiment Coastguard over the Cup Match holiday period.

An advisory has been issued to remind boaters to keep safety at the forefront.

A spokesman said: “The coastguard will work to address antisocial behaviour over the holiday weekend. There will be heightened focus on offences such as operating a vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

“There will be a focus on the dangerous operation of vessels, and particularly speeding within no-wake zones or in areas where there are swimmers and raft ups. The unsafe operation of jet skis has been a problem in the past and will be a focus this weekend.

“While understanding the wish to party whilst out on the water, we urge the boating public to be considerate to other boat operators and houses nearby when playing music, especially late at night.

“To help in keeping our marine environment pristine we would like to remind the public not to litter and to dispose of trash properly when they return to shore.”

The coastguard reminded boaters that Covid-19 regulations are still in force including gatherings limited to 50 people.

Jet skis are not permitted to enter or operate in certain areas from 5am on Thursday, July 29 to 10pm on Sunday August 1.

These areas include: Somerset Long Bay; Cambridge Beaches; Mangrove Bay; and Paradise Lakes – specifically, the waters confined by Hawkins Island, Nelly Island, Ports Island, Long Island, Beta Island, Gamma Island, Delta Island, Epsilon Island, Zeta Island, Iota Island, Eta Island, Marshalls Island, and Fern Island.

The spokesman added: “Vessel operators are also advised that in the interest of safety, they are not to cross buoy lines placed at Clarence Cove at Admiralty House Park, and Shelly Bay Beach, which are placed to create safe swimming zones.”

Boaters are also being reminded to file a float plan with a friend or the Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre before leaving shore.

They must adhere to the following regulations: Boaters are to not to exceed the five-knot speed limit and must operate at a speed that does not create a wake within 100 meters from shore; boaters must carry appropriate safety equipment for the size of the vessel; boaters must have a life jacket for every person on board; a working VHF radio must be carried where required; navigation lights must be in working order.

The spokesman added: “Finally, we thank the public for their consideration and in keeping with the celebratory nature of the holiday to moderate their behaviour and keep the health and safety of their fellow Bermudians in mind. Help us keep Bermuda safe this holiday.”