/ 
CBD, a THC-free derivative of Cannabis, is now tolerated in our country. For this reason have flourished many outlets that pride themselves on offering consumers products that will help them relax and feel better.
Obviously, we are only talking about recreational CBD intake here, people who take this substance for therapeutic purposes must comply with their prescription.
What effects on board a boat?
CBD users do it to get different effects. They talk about relaxation, muscle relaxation and stress reduction. Some may experience hallucinations, too.
These intended effects will be, as with any psychoactive substance, enhanced by the simultaneous use of alcohol ( including in authorized doses ) or, again, of certain drugs, including the most classic ones. Thus, for example, the consumption of CBD at the same time as a very common antibiotic such as Josacin is particularly risky.
In our field, two categories of drugs are frequently found. Antiemetics (such as Mercalm) will see their sedative effects strongly increased and their effect against seasickness diminished by the possible appearance of loss of balance.
The second common family on board are the antifungals (Ketoderm for example). They act against mycoses and fungi that can develop on the body in a humid and hot environment like that of a boat. The same thing, the risks of drowsiness or even comas are extremely high with these treatments.
The direct side effects of taking CBD can be quite distressing on board a boat. We are talking about sedation, drowsiness, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or fever. More severe cases can occur and require a quick medical treatment of the victim (confusion, dizziness, drop in blood pressure in particular).
On the side of maritime regulations
" In case of an important event (collision, accident with personal injury ...) the investigation will lead to the detection of products that alter the lucidity "explains us the maritime gendarmerie of Saint-Malo. And this detection will be given to the judge, who will be able to estimate that the catch of CBD was an aggravating circumstance to the met accident.
For its part, the site Drogues Infos Services explains " In France, CBD itself is not detected by conventional screening tests. The only substance sought in cannabis testing is THC. The consumption of pure CBD products cannot lead to a positive cannabis test. "
However, we cannot conclude that taking CBD is allowed when you are at the helm of a boat. Indeed, even if it is not illegal to consume CBD, the fact of putting oneself, voluntarily, in a state of lesser vigilance, the supposed effect of the substance, represents an element capable of reducing the insurance coverage in case of an accident. More seriously, this consumption can become an aggravating circumstance in the event of passage to the court.
We contacted Ouest Assurance to get an insurer's opinion. The explanation is somewhat technical, but it leaves the door open to a real risk. " The insurer cannot ask each insured if he or she uses this or that substance, this is a matter of individual freedom. "explains the broker.
" However, if the state of consciousness is clearly altered and there is a serious loss, the insurer has the right to ask the judge for a lapse in coverage, based on the principle that the insured has taken a reckless risk. This is very rare and the insurer has to prove that the state of consciousness has been altered, but it is not inconceivable. "
The forfeiture of coverage means that the insurer, if it is upheld in its claim by the judge, will not will not cover the insured for the loss that has occurred. Whether it is the insured's own expenses ( on his own boat ) or others, the customer will be out of pocket.
Appeal to the common sense of the boater
Common sense as a sailor and, beyond that, as an adult, must govern the choice of the possible consumption of any psychoactive substance. Whether it is alcohol, CBD or medication, it is the responsibility of the skipper to assess whether he or she is still able to carry out the manoeuvres necessary for the safety of the crew, the boat and other users.
