UK issues updated Guidance for Inspections of Cruise vessels

UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency has issued a Merchant Information Notice (MIN) that sets out the expectations for UK Expanded Inspections of Cruise vessels operating out of UK Ports with UK resident passengers on board.

As the cruise industry resumes operations due to the reduced impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the MCA continues with Expanded Inspections to provide a level of assurance to the traveling public. All cruise vessels operating from UK ports with UK passengers on board will be subject to inspection by surveyors of the MCA prior to the commencement of operations, regardless of previous inspection history.

During the Expanded Inspections, the MCA will verify that the vessel holds a COVID-19 Management Plan and that the plan has been subject to external verification in accordance with the framework.

The inspections will preferably be conducted by arrangement with the local MCA Marine Office and should be planned in advance to enable them to be appropriately resourced. Vessels must be presented for inspection in a fully operational condition.

The MIN expires on 31 December 2022.

RELEVANT DOCUMENT (AVAILABLE ONLY TO SUBSCRIBERS):

Cruise Restart - Vessel Inspection Guidance