At our last TransEurope members’ meeting, managers aired theirs and their boaters’ frustrations at the lack of clarity in terms of entry and exit regulations for boaters crossing the Channel. With the Brexit veil now firmly down, and UK boaters inevitably subject to Schengen border control checks upon arriving in the EU, sailing is perhaps not as plain as it was a few of years ago. Reciprocally, EU sailors have also struggled to ascertain each of the procedures that need following in order to comply with the necessary UK Border requirements.
That said, TransEurope members are working hard with authorities to try and facilitate processes as far as possible and help visitors with advice on form completion, etc., when booking a berth and arriving in the marina.
To this end, and having consulted a number of resources, including the invaluable news section of the Cruising Association website, we have summarised procedures as we currently understand it. We will endeavour to update this page upon receiving more information although fully recognise that the proper authorities should be consulted in all cases.
UK boaters travelling to the EU
- Take a valid international passport
- Fill out the form C1331 (“Leaving the United Kingdom (UK) Pleasure craft on non-UK voyages”)
- Border Control:
- If visiting Belgium, complete the Schengen form: https://www.police.be/bordercontrol/en/pleasure-craft-declaration
- If visiting France, some TransEurope members have organised a Border Police Form (PAF) that can be completed at the marina to help with Border Police control procedures. Please check locally regarding further steps or contact the marina in advance for more information. Be aware that it may be necessary to complete and return the form prior to departure. See this example from Le Havre.
- Call the National Yachtline https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs/contact/national-yachtline (available 24/7) and check Notice 8 for pertinent customs regulations.
- People travelling with pets: Taking your pet dog, cat or ferret abroad: Overview – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
EU boaters travelling to the UK
- Take a valid international passport
- Hoist the yellow Q flag upon entering UK waters.
- Contact the National Yachtline upon arrival (+44 300 123 2012 – Available 24/7)
- Complete the C1331 form – Sailing pleasure craft to and from the UK – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) and check Notice 8.
- The destination UK marina may well also ask you to complete the Declaration of the disposal of catering waste from international means of transport
- People travelling with pets: Bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret to Great Britain: Overview – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Saint-Quay and Saint-Cast
Our fellow member marina Saint-Quay Port d’Armor in Brittany, has managed to organise some very favourable conditions for UK travellers heading to their marina. Download this advice sheet for more information. The entry form can be downloaded from the Saint-Quay website.
Covid Vaccination Status
Some countries may insist that visitors have evidence of the their Covid vaccination status before entering. Skippers of vessels should make their own enquiries as to whether such information is required for the country they propose to enter.
Further resources:
https://www.rya.org.uk/knowledge/abroad/entry-exit-formalities
Disclaimer: The above information is provided in good faith. Due to the evolving nature of the subject matter, no responsibility will be accepted for any inaccuracies in the information provided. Skippers of vessels should obtain up-to-date information prevailing at the time of their voyage.
27th May 2022
