Council-run ports and harbours in the Outer Hebrides have been closed to non-essential vessels to meet government guidance during the pandemic.
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar said the advice to stay at home and go out only for essential food, health and work reasons applies to waterborne activity as well as that on shore.
The closure of open port access specifically applies to recreational vessels at the 48 ports, piers and harbours run by the council.
Facilities now remain open only for lifeline ferries, local fishing and fish farm vessels or those landing catch or taking on supplies, commercial ships operated in support of local communities, vessels seeking a port of refuge and medivacs, marine casualties or other similar emergencies.
A council spokesman said: “Due to the Covid-19 health crisis, and in light of recent government announcements, there is now a need to impose control measures on vessel movements and implement restrictions on normal open port access to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar ports, harbours and facilities.
“Protecting our communities being a priority for the Comhairle, mariners are informed that with immediate effect the restrictions are now in force at all CNES facilities.”
The restrictions will remain in force until further notice.
