The following information has been provided by Border Force UK and is published by BHA to assist visitors in understanding the compliance requirements given to Recreational Craft post leaving the EU.  Since the United Kingdom left the European Union at the end of 2020, new customs and immigration procedures have been adopted by the UK Government, with effect from 1st January 2021.

Display ‘Q’ Flag on arrival

If you arrive from outside the UK (and this includes the Channel Islands) the ‘Q’ flag must be flown, where it can readily be seen, as soon as you enter UK waters (the 12 nautical mile limit). Do not take down the flag until you have finished reporting to the customs authorities. Failure to comply will make you liable to a penalty.

Customs Notification

Visitors are required to call the National Yacht line on +44 (0) 300 123 2012 to declare their vessel status (VAT paid, goods). See the National Yachtline website for more details.

Immigration Notification

Visitors seeking entry into the UK (including visitors from the European Economic Area) must call the regional Border Force office; Border Force South on +44 (0)7557 205925 upon arrival or ahead of arrival for immigration purposes. Visitors are not permitted to leave their craft until they have been granted permission to enter the UK. Border Force Officers will be available from 05:30 till 02:00 GMT every day to answer calls.

For full details see the UK Government website: Visiting the UK as an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen

Departing the UK

Before leaving the UK (which includes going to the Channel Islands), you must advise the Border Force of your intentions by posting form C1331 (the address it must be posted to can be found on the form). See Declare pleasure craft on voyages leaving or arriving in the UK website.

Full details of the new procedures can be found on the UK Government website Notice 8: sailing your pleasure craft to and from the UK


UK Government Covid-19 restrictions

From 0400 on 18th March 2020 the UK Goverment removed all Covid-19 regulations on international travel.

There is no longer a requirement for international arrivals to complete a passenger locator form, or to take a Covid-19 test either before or after travel.  The easing of restrictions applies to all international travellers arriving into England regardless of their vacination status.

All travellers are advised to continue to check UK Government travel advice as well as foreign travel advice to keep up to date with other countries requirements.