The Ministry of Health wants to introduce harsh penalties for kayaking or riding a pedalo under the influence of alcohol, with fines expected to reach 2,500 zloty (630 euro).

“We often undertake interventions on the water, but there is no law that would allow us to work effectively,” Anna Fic from the Olsztyn Police HQ told TVN24 news.

However, an amendment to Poland’s sobriety bill is expected to be passed before the end of the year.

The bill will also introduce fines for sailing while under the influence (0.02 – 0.05 percent of alcohol in the bloodstream), with penalties ranging from 20 to 5,000 zloty. If over 0.05 percent of alcohol is found, then a minimum fine of 2,500 zloty is to be incurred.

Police motorboats are to be equipped with breathalisers, and are to control water users for alcohol. Thus far, the only legislation in force to penalise drunk ‘seadogs’ are for speedboat skippers. (jb)