Cruise ship health protocols in place as vessel welcomed in Manx waters

Mon, 02 Mar 2020

The Fridtjof Nansen from Hurtigruten Cruises arrived in Manx shores today.

Fridtjof Nansen is the first cruise ship of the 2020 schedule to visit the Island.

The Manx Government has reassured members of the public about protective measures in place for cruise visits to the Island in relation to COVID-19. The government is continuing to work closely with Public Health England on measures to contain coronavirus infection, including following clear guidance and procedures for cruise ships. This includes embarkation protocols for staff and guests.

Guidance from Public Health England and the Cruise Line Association, implemented by cruise companies, states that people who have visited a list of high-risk countries will not be allowed to board, and that screening is being undertaken where appropriate.

Consequently, there is no need for additional screening for passengers coming ashore to the Isle of Man.

Passengers travelling to and from the UK and Ireland via air and sea links are also not required to be screened.

At present the risk from COVID-19 to the Isle of Man remains low, with a cross-government working group regularly reviewing the situation.

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