Well, although not too well publicised, the new law which we have mentioned on the front page and page 4 will cause some consternation.
I was very surprised that yachts going further than 12 miles offshore were not, until this law, obliged to have a life raft!
These new regulations that will be policed by the Guardia Civil covers Spanish flagged and ´commercial´ vessels (this includes charter yachts) only at the present time but it is expected to encompass ´all yachts in Spanish waters´ sometime in the future.
It seems illogical that ´foreign dirty water´ is any less unwanted than ´Spanish dirty water´ in the coastal seas!
Already Spanish yacht owners are scratching their heads (excuse the pun) because in many small boats there just isn’t the room to retro-fit a holding tank.
Their choice is to do away with their toilet or make room somehow!
The result of non-compliance is the probable arrest of the boat and a very hefty fine.
In true Spanish form there is absolutely no provision (except discharge at least 4 miles out) for any pump-out facilities.
In fact I remember asking those responsible for building the newest marina on the Paseo in Palma if they intended to put in piping for such discharges- I don’t think they ever gave me an answer!
I have to congratulate the organising team and all the helpers etc for yet another terrific Pinmar yachtsman’s Golf Tournament.
An incredible total of 260 players were catered for with way over 600 at the prize-giving bash at Pirates.
All in all a massive 27,500 Euros was collected, in one-way or another (the Islander quiz pulling in 2,440), for charity.
This year this will be split three ways; Joves Navegants; The Professional Yachtsman’s Trust and Encompass.
Take a bow all who gave so generously.
Regards,
John Rule