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The UK Government has brought new Covid-19 travel-related rules into force from 15 February.
Currently, there is no change to the current Seafarer exemptions, meaning seafarers will continue to be exempt from having to present a negative test before flying to the UK. However, it is important to note this should be checked with local travel providers as even transiting through certain countries, or travelling on certain airlines, may have a blanket stipulation for a negative Covid-19 test before being allowed to board.
The new quarantine rules slightly differ between the home nations. As the situation currently stands these will hopefully not affect seafarers arriving in the UK to join a vessel.
Crewing departments and/or travellers are strongly urged to check with their local travel agent or airline directly on the exact requirements needed to board a flight and be granted entry into the UK. Every airport may be operating slightly different rules, so although the seafarer would be legally granted access into the UK with relevant SID they could still potentially be stopped from boarding their flight if they don’t have a negative test.
There is currently no requirement for seafarers to self-isolate in the UK, however they are required to complete an online health check form 48 hours before arrival or departure. There are also some restrictions in place to limit launch and taxis passenger numbers and hotel rooms can carry extra cost in comparison to normal operations. GAC UK can arrange Covid-19 testing and isolation rooms in hotels on a case-by-case basis.
It is also advisable, but not mandatory, that crew carry a letter from their employer stating details such as employer, vessel, rank, working location and period of employment.
If you are planning to perform any crew changes, including on-signing non-ship crew (Inspectors, Engineers, Superintendents etc) please contact your local GAC branch in advance with all the details. They will check with their local Border Force office to ensure compliance with all the latest rulings.
The below ports currently have some restrictions in place for crew change. All other UK & Irish ports are currently permitting crew change operations:
- Braefoot Bay: no crew changes unless emergency
- Flotta: crew changes not permitted
- Ineos LPG & Hound Point: crew changes not permitted (Ineos J & E Jetties still permitting)
- Milford Haven: crew changes only permitted at VPOT via Boat. Crew changes permitted via jetty at Puma. Crew changes permitted at Dragon LNG & South Hook LNG
- Pembroke: crew changes permitted at Valero via Boat only
- Sullom Voe: crew change considered on a case by case basis
For further details and updates, as well as information about operations in the United Kingdom, contact GAC UK at [email protected]