May Newsletter, COVID-19 update and some special offers.
Given the signs that some of the most restrictive elements of the COVID 19 lockdown are beginning to be eased we thought that now would be a good time to update clients as to our expectations for the coming season. We have assembled some special offers including walked up Grouse in Perthshire, Dove and Pigeon shooting in Argentina and Fly fishing in Patagonia , details are below. Clearly, we do not know how events will unfold but we are heartened by the fact that it looks increasingly possible that shooting will take place this season. It is true that we have seen some UK based shoots pull in their horns and take the decision now, that they will not shoot this season. But equally, we have shoots on our roster who have taken a somewhat more optimistic view and concluded that not only is shooting likely to occur but also that demand can be expected to exceed supply. One advantage that our sport has in the current situation is that it will have had around half a year to prepare for operating in the “new environment” whatever that may be. We have spoken with shoots who already have a clear idea of how for instance, they will manage any social distancing requirements for both shoot day operatives and clients. It may look and feel a little different, but the core-essence of camaraderie, sportsmanship and a shared appreciation of the countryside and our quarry will be undiminished. From a practical perspective the shoots and ancillary providers that we deal with are seeking to share COVID 19 related risks with guns in a fair and equitable manner. We can discuss specific terms for individual bookings. But in the event of a COVID 19 related cancellation, by and large guns can expect to receive an offer of either a roll over of their deposit to a date in the future or a refund of their deposit. We have said before that shooting is no different to other industries in that it requires confidence to allow it to flourish. These arrangements seem to us to provide confidence for both shoot operators and clients. We are fortunate to have many International clients. For them there is an additional layer of complexity, but we note that there are already some airlines who are offering pre boarding testing. We might reasonably expect this to increase in prevalence as the travel industry does what it can to increase participation. Our Spanish partridge shoot owners are if anything more optimistic than their UK counterparts. That country is emerging from its lockdown earlier than the UK and had signalled more clearly that it recognises the importance of tourism. To quote the owner of one of our flagship estates; “I don’t think we have any problems hunting from October to March”. They are also unequivocal, that if COVID 19 prevents shooting, then clients can elect to receive either a replacement date or a refund.
We look forward to you joining us for your next hunting adventure
Vernon P Waters