We also asked Swaso about the commercial vessels, the ones that before Covid used to make runs to Chetumal, Mexico and Puerto Cortes, Honduras, and whether they'd be allowed to resume their runs. Here's how he answered that one:
Cherisse Halsall "Do you know with the opening of maritime activities does it mean the tourists boats will resume runs to Chetumal and to Puerto Cortes?"
Major H. Gilbert Swaso - Belize Ports Commissioner "At this time what we are focussing on are the arrival and the departure of those private yachts. We at this time are not contemplating the other voyages from Belize in terms of commercial passenger craft from Belize to the neighbouring countries at this time. That wasn't the idea that we had in the first instance, but it is something that I'm sure will be considered. One of the biggest issue is to ensure that the health of our nation is certainly the highest priority. So, by first focusing on the private yachts, you have minimum of personnel and then we can also adjust our strategy in particular the health strategy to ensure that we contain the virus from spreading within Belize."
Swaso also told us that reopening of our maritime borders requires the strict following of health and safety guidelines and adherence to established boarding protocols.
