Never ending story, Speed limits, wash and Windermere.

[morgandoyle]

I came across a comment on a mailing list (usual topic of speed and wash inland) claiming that since the speed limits were introduced on Windermere, boat use has actually increased. Can this be true? My impression was that the opposite was happening there.

 

[Lakesailor]

Far too early to tell. The limit was introduced on March 29th when there weren't that many boats about anyway.
Each day there do seem to be more yachts, under sail, on the lake, but that is subjective and can only really be compared to the same period -and same weather - as last year and before.
The boat registrations and moorings figures don't relate very closely to boat use as testified by the many boats covered in green growths bobbing about on moorings.
On Saturday there were 6 mid to large sized yachts at the Miller Ground public jetties. Something not seen for a long time. You couldn't get close for jet skis.
The sail count does seem a bit higher whenever you go down to the shore, but without comparative figures that may just be an impression.
There are certainly more dinghies and canoes on the lake on a daily basis. This is no doubt due the new small craft hire and tuition businesses that have sprung up.
May Bank Holiday and the July Air Show are going to be the time to tell.

 

[Twister_Ken]

Mebbe the lack of wash is encouraging out more of the "Eee Father, can't you stop the boat rocking so much" crowd?

 

[Lakesailor]

Perhaps so, but at the moment we are having "Bloody hell, Mother, where did that gust come from!" weather, so wash wouldn't be a first consideration.