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Updated FCO advice clears the way for river cruise return

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The Foreign Office has updated its advice against cruise ship travel to confirm that it relates to international travel on a “sea-going” cruise ship.

The FCO had previously confirmed its advice applied to all forms of cruising, but the updated guidance paves the way for UK travellers to return to river cruising.

The updated advice would also appear to exclude cruises in UK waters from the blanket ban, although it says those seeking information on such cruises should contact the Department for Transport.

Hurtigruten last week said it was in talks with the government after its plans to operate British Isles itineraries in September were impacted by the guidance.

The FCO advice now says: “The Foreign & Commonwealth Office advises against cruise ship travel at this time. This is due to the ongoing pandemic and is based on medical advice from Public Health England.

“Cruise ship travel means staying overnight for at least 1 night on a sea-going cruise ship with people from multiple households.

“Our advice against cruises applies to international travel on a ship that is exclusively for pleasure or recreation, providing overnight accommodation and other leisure facilities such as entertainment venues or swimming pools.

“Our advice does not include ferries or privately-rented boats.

“The government will continue to review its cruise ship travel advice based on the latest medical advice.

“If you have future cruise travel plans, contact your cruise line, travel operator, or the travel company you booked with, for further advice. For information on cruises in the UK, waters contact the Department for Transport: Maritimeengagement@dft.gov.uk.

“The Foreign & Commonwealth Office continues to support the Department for Transport’s work with industry for the resumption of international cruise travel.”

Travel Weekly has contacted the Department for Transport for clarification about advice for cruises in UK waters.

Andy Harmer, Clia UK & Ireland director, said: “This latest change to the Foreign & Commonwealth Office’s advisory regarding cruise ship travel provides a very welcome boost.

“We are seeing a gradual, phased-in approach to a resumption of cruise operations across Europe, initially domestic and regional. Clia is continuing its constructive dialogue with the Department for Transport and Public Health England to finalise the road map to the resumption of international cruise travel.”

Hurtigruten still in talks with the government over UK cruises

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Sneak peek at Hurtigruten's new hybrid ships | Hurtigruten UK

Two of Hurtigruten new Hybrid ships.

Hurtigruten remains in talks with the UK government over plans to run a series of short sailings around the British Isles.

The Foreign Office has updated its advice against cruise ship travel to confirm that it only related to international travel on “sea-going” ships.

The updated advice would appear to exclude cruises in UK waters from the blanket ban, although no further clarity has been given. The FCO’s guidance says those seeking information on such cruises should contact the Department for Transport.

The DfT has yet to respond to a request for clarification from Travel Weekly.

Hurtigruten’s series of UK cruises are set to depart in September and remain on sale as the cruise line continues to liaise with relevant authorities.

Anthony Daniels, general manager for UK and EMEA, said: “We are working with the authorities; the short breaks remain on sale, with the reassurance to customers of a full refund if sailings are cancelled.”

He stressed that he was encouraged by today’s news and was hopeful of “further positive discussions with the Department for Transport.

“We are encouraged by the news coming from the UK government regarding travel advice for cruise ships. We look forward to furthering, positive discussions with Department for Transport and PHE over the safe return of expedition cruising, with a specific focus on Hurtigruten’s short breaks series in UK waters departing in September.”

The short break expedition cruises come with a flexible booking policy to ensure guests receive a full refund if sailings are cancelled. The line said it would operate at a reduced capacity of 350 guests (roughly 65%).

Daniels added: “Health and safety of guests and crew is Hurtigruten’s number one priority, and we comply with all Covid-19 regulations and policies in the waters, coasts and ports we visit.”