COVID-19 Health and Safety Procedures

Updated November 7, 2020.

Procedures subject to change with implementations of new regulations or new information provided by the CDC or WHO.

Introduction

Born Free Fishing Charters has been part of the tourism industry within The Bahamas since the 1970’s specializing in sharing the Bahamian fishing and boating experience with guests from all over the world. As a small family-owned company in a very competitive industry, customer satisfaction and safety have always been at the forefront of our operations.

With the introduction of the COVID-19 pandemic we have decided to introduce additional safety precautions and sanitizing procedures in an effort to keep both guests and staff healthy. It is our goal to give peace of mind to our staff that work along with us everyday, as well as to give peace of mind to our guests before, during, and after their charter.

Please note these may change pending possible implementation of new regulations to our industry. We are taking into consideration suggestions published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) throughout this process.

Bow of boat overlooking beautiful water and sky

Check-in and Boarding

SELF CHECK-IN PROCESS

We will request guests to complete all necessary paperwork online and have it submitted prior to the charter date. In the case where guests are not able to complete this information online we will have a company representative at the check-in location to assist with finalizing any necessary check-in documents ie. liability waivers and credit card authorizations where needed. Guests that have booked on our website or over the phone will be emailed a link to our credit card authorization form to complete and return to us prior to their charter.

BOARDING PROCESS

Once guests arrive at their pickup location and have completed the steps for self check-in, they will board the boat immediately after a quick temperature check and hand sanitizing.

Guests and crew will be required to wear a face covering while on the boat. Guests are permitted to remove their mask at the beach or while swimming.

Guests and crew will have their temperatures

checked prior to the charter.

Physical Distancing

As our charters are for private groups only, guests do not need to worry about being in close quarters to other groups while on our boats. All boats also have areas of unrestricted access to ocean breezes.

While physical distance will not be required for groups amongst themselves, the crew will do their best to practice safe physical distancing as much as possible. Guests should keep in mind the crew will at times need to be close by to assist in passing rods to guests, assisting guests to board the boat etc.

Employee Health Standards

Healthy employees will allow us to ensure a healthy environment for our guests. Employees showing any signs of sickness will be encouraged to stay home.

Daily Temperature Screening - Employees will be checked prior to leaving on the first charter of the day. Temperatures must be recorded at less than 100.4 F (38.0 C).
Visual Health Inspection - A visual inspection of each crew member for any signs of illness will be done prior to leaving for the first charter of the day. Ensuring no coughing or shortness of breath.
Face Coverings - All crew will be required to wear a face covering or mask at all times during the charter.

Vessel Sanitizing

While the boat will be deeply cleaned and disinfected before each and every charter, frequently touched areas of the boat will be cleaned during the charter.

COCKPIT

Washed with soap and water then disinfected with approved disinfectant after every charter. Including seats and upholstery.

BATHROOMS

All areas washed with soap and water then disinfected with approved disinfectant after every charter. Including toilet, shower, sink, counter top, light switches, and toilet push buttons. Replenish soap and hand sanitizer when necessary.

CABIN

Fiberglass or other hard flooring to be washed and disinfected after every charter. Furniture to be cleaned and disinfected after every charter.

Countertops, microwave, and refrigerator to be wiped down with soap and water then disinfected with approved disinfectant after every charter. Replenish soap and hand sanitizer when necessary.

STATEROOMS

Bedding removed and laundered after every use. Side tables and light switches cleaned and disinfected after every charter.

FISH BOXES AND COOLERS

Fish boxes and coolers will be washed with soap and water then disinfected with approved disinfectant after every charter. Cooler interiors will be washed and disinfected at the end of each day.

Gear Sanitizing

FISHING RODS AND REELS

Hosed with fresh water then wiped down with approved disinfectant after every charter.

SNORKEL GEAR

Guests will retrieve snorkel gear from a sanitizing bin on the deck of the boat and will be instructed to rinse thoroughly in the salt water prior to use. After use, gear will be placed back in the sanitizing bin by the guests. Bins will contain a mixture of bleach solution and fresh water. Each bin has an attached measuring cup to ensure proper amount of cleaner is used.

SWIM NOODLES AND MISCELLANEOUS FLOATS