The UK government decided to allow some international travel, including cruises, as well as reducing the restrictions to enter England for individuals that have received vaccinations.
Namely, from August, international travelers arriving from the US and European countries except France will no longer be required to quarantine in England.
However, they will still be required to complete both a pre-departure test for COVID-19 and a test two days after arrival.
Moreover, UK Transportation Secretary Grant Shapps also that the government decided to permit cruise ships sailing from England to visit international destinations. Cruise ships have been banned from international destinations since the summer of 2020.
The government is also relaxing the testing requirements for certain key workers, who do not mix with the public or leave their vehicles, thus freeing up running times.
The British Ports Association applauded the news of the relaxing of travel restrictions to England, with Richard Ballantyne, Chief Executive at the British Ports Association saying:
We are delighted the UK Government has today announced that international cruise can restart in England from August 2, after a lengthy 16 months of no international sailings. The successful restart of domestic cruises in England two months ago has demonstrated how ports, cruise lines, government, and health officials have been able to work together to ensure the health and safety of passengers, crew, and destinations are an absolute priority. We are hopeful that the devolved administrations will follow suit shortly as we begin the gradual move towards normality
