Following the BTN update in last week’s BTN The Foreign & Commonwealth Office has tried to clarify the situation regarding river ships.  

It declares that cruise ship travel means staying overnight for at least one night on a sea-going ship with people from multiple households.  It says nothing about river craft, nor the use of British waterways.

“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.”

In the meantime the major sea cruise companies are working hand-in-hand to ensure common health requirements, and to introduce new programmes towards the end of the year.  The BTN issue 6 July provides a quick link to all seagoing operators and this will be amalgamated with the river ship companies for the 3 August issue.

www.gov.uk/government/organisations/foreign-commonwealth-office