Shotley foot ferry has resumed operations today.

Owner Christian Zemann revealed he was planning to restart the route from Felixstowe to Harwich and Shotley, on Saturday, May 16, provided official clearance is confirmed.

Passenger numbers will be restricted to 12 per journey with social distancing guidelines to be observed, tickets can be booked on the ferry's website here...

The Harwich Harbour Ferry Service was due to restart on April 1 following a winter break but was forced to delay that due to Covid-19.

Seal watching trips are under consideration with no new definite date set for that at the moment.

Shotley marina is also looking at returning to full operational activities and have put a number of measures in place to make it Covid Safe.

1. Social distancing is to be maintained at all times whilst you are here at the marina.
2. The ablution blocks will be fully open from the weekends. There will be a restriction of five people at any one time in the showers to maintain social distancing.
3. For the time being the Control Tower will remain closed until we have put in place screens for the reception area and then it will be only one member of the public permitted at a time. Hand sanitizer will be available.
4. We will no longer be accepting parcels on behalf of berth holders in the Control Tower. We will be asking delivery companies to place any parcels in storage boxes located outside the  entrance at the top of the stairs.
5. The workshop will be closed to the public for the time being. If you need work done please call or email Martin at [email protected].

Across the water, the public mooring at Ha'penny pier will remain closed until clearer clarification from the government has been given.

Meanwhile, Harwich Have Authority, which polices all sailing activity in the estuary between Felixstowe, Harwich and Shotley, has confirmed leisure sailing and fishing will be allowed to resume.

HHA released a statement which said: "We have been following the Government's advice in respect of Coronavirus and have put measures in place to limit risks to stakeholders, our staff, emergency services and the public.

"Over the past few days the government has announced, through  DEFRA and the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, that some leisure activities, including boating and angling could resume.

"The British Ports Association and the UK Harbour Masters' Association are seeking clarification on the detail of this announcement with the Government at national level.

"Specific guidance is expected shortly. Therefore, until we have confirmation of these details, the Authority's visitor pontoons at Ha'penny Pier will remain closed. Once clarification of any remaining government restrictions or provisions become clear we will review the decision as to whether we re-open the visitor pontoons.

"However, in line with the latest advice, the Authority can confirm that it is now permissible to use the waters of the Haven for boating and angling. If your boat is kept in a marina or other facility, then you will need to liaise directly with them to arrange access to your boat.

"Please be mindful that these facilities will need to put measures in place to ensure your and their own staff safety before granting access.  Safety of all stakeholders on the Haven's waters is paramount. If you do choose to venture out onto the water once again, please be mindful of your actions and make sure that they are not likely to increase risks to any other people using those waters.

"All leisure vessels users should also be advised that the Royal Yachting Association makes it clear in their latest statement that they are still 'engaging with the RNLI and representatives from the ports and leisure marine industry to help ensure a safe return to recreational boating activity. – www.rya.org.uk."