Crew changes in the UK: documents, visas and travel
The short answer
For captains and pursers: what joining and leaving crew need for a crew change in the United Kingdom, and what we arrange.
A crew change in the United Kingdom depends on the documents each crew member carries, and it is simplest when they are checked before anyone travels.
Joining crew
Crew joining a yacht in the United Kingdom need a passport or seaman's book, their contract, and a letter from the owner or agent confirming that the yacht will leave UK waters. Visa nationals also need a Joining Ship visa, unless they hold an ILO seafarer's identity document. Whether a joining crew member needs an Electronic Travel Authorisation depends on nationality and documents, and we confirm it before they travel.
Crew arriving with the yacht
Crew who arrive and leave with the yacht need neither an Electronic Travel Authorisation nor permission to enter. Guests who are not British or Irish need both.
Leaving crew
Crew leaving the yacht in the United Kingdom are normally given up to seven days to travel home.
What we arrange
We sign crew on and off, arrange Electronic Travel Authorisations and visas through a specialist where they are needed, and book travel, transfers and hotels for joining and leaving crew.