A note from the Regional Secretariat for Tourism and Culture published in the Official Journal of the Autonomous Region of Madeira states that, "in the exercise of maritime-tourist activities, the maximum capacity of vessels is conditioned on two parameters: the capacity of up to 60 passengers and with more than 60 passengers ".
For vessels with capacity for up to 60 passengers, occupancy of up to 70% of their capacity is allowed, until the end of June, 90% during the month of July, and without any capacity restriction, from August onwards.
On the other hand, for vessels with capacity for more than 60 passengers, occupancy is allowed up to 70% of capacity until the end of July, 90% during August, and without any capacity restriction from September 2020.
These restrictions do not apply, however, to small boats without an engine and jet skis.
In relation to the provision of services by tourist entertainment companies or travel and tourism agencies, related to cultural tourism activities, open air tourism or mere transport within the scope of their own activities, the maximum capacity of the motor vehicles used is conditioned in the following terms: until the end of June, the occupation is allowed up to 70% of the capacity; during the month of July, the occupation is allowed up to 90% of the capacity; and, finally, from August, motor vehicles can drive with the maximum capacity allowed.
These restrictions, however, do not apply when only members of the same household are transported in the vehicle.
When the activities developed by tourist entertainment companies or travel and tourism agencies are pedestrians, whether in urban, rural or natural surroundings, each tourist information professional cannot accompany more than 25 people.
In all activities, whether in tourist maritime or tourist entertainment, all obligations related to the need to provide hand hygiene products, the use of protective mask by customers (at the entrance of the vessel) and employees, and cleaning and disinfecting the vessel's interior after each service provision.
It is encouraging to read that Madeira doesn't require tourism for its wellbeing. Otherwise the island would startup much sooner. I just hope that the EU doesn't send lots of money to those that are actually NOT in need.
By John Dough from Lisbon on 01 Jun 2020, 08:24
Despite the serious negative impact of the Covid-19 virus on Portugal tourism industry, which contributes around 16.5 % to the GDP, it is commendable to see the regional Madeira government (where tourism represents about 20% if the local GDP) taking a wiser approach by postponing the full reopening of the region economy to the tourism industry to September. It apparent that the Portuguese central government, motivated more by the money than the healthcare of its people, has other priorities and imprudently is opening the country too early to millions of people from many countries far from having reaching an acceptable stability in terms of proper management of this terrible pandemic! My praise and respect goes to the Madeira authorities for their wisdom and courage by putting people ahead of money!
By Tony Fernandes from Other on 03 Jun 2020, 12:57