By
Alex Smith |
The UK Chamber of Shipping has collaborated with Cruise Lines Industry Association (CLIA) to release a set of framework documents detailing recommendations for the resumption of cruise operations from the UK after the extended pause caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The cruise sector is a vital part of the UK economy,” said Bob Sanguinetti, chief executive of the UK Chamber of Shipping. “This new UK Chamber of Shipping Framework gives the government, passengers, crew and operators the confidence that the very latest science and medical advice has been included in the industry's planning process. We are not talking about restarting the sector tomorrow, but it is a vital first step in the process to get cruises sailing again when conditions allow and government guidance changes.”
Three documents have been produced, focusing on operators, the management of seafarers and advice for passengers before embarking on a cruise. The documents for operators and crew advises which measures should be considered for implementation onboard, as well as information on how cruise lines should communicate with passengers throughout their journey. The passenger guidance details the considerations to be aware of when booking a cruise and information on the measures they will be expected to follow while onboard.
“This is the culmination of extensive dialogue and collaboration by representatives from across the maritime sector working together with government and national health authorities,” said Andy Harmer, director of CLIA UK and Ireland. “This is an industry that supports more than 88,000 jobs and generates £10 billion for the economy each year, and the industry is taking the necessary steps to be ready to restart in the UK when the time is right.”
The framework was produced over a period of six months and has been shared with the UK Government to help develop plans for the future of the cruise industry.
“Our cruise industry has been hit hard by Covid-19 and the government has worked alongside the sector to prepare for a safe and successful restart,” said Robert Courts, Minister for Aviation and Maritime at the UK Department of Transport. “This industry framework puts passengers and workers at its heart and is an important step forward to allow cruises to prepare to set sail when safe to do so.”