Image credit – Namport
It is with profound pleasure that we inform you of the resumption of Passenger vessel services at the Namibian Ports Authority, as we will be welcoming the MS Europa on 25 November 2021. The Passenger vessel will be docked at the Port of Walvis Bay for two (2) days before sailing off to the Port of Lüderitz. The same vessel is expected to make a return call to the Port of Walvis Bay on 05 December 2021. The Europa passenger liner boasts a capacity of 408 passengers, 275 crew members, sporting eleven (11) decks with the length of 199 metres.
Background
As you are aware, since the outbreak of COVID-19 in early 2020, Namport have put in various measures that included the temporary suspension of Passenger vessel services at our ports, as a way of curbing the potential spread of the COVID-19 virus, in line with prevailing international practices.
After assessing the situation locally and globally and in consultation with our stakeholders such as Health and Immigration Authorities, we are pleased to inform you, the Namibian ports are once again ready and open to receive Passenger vessels subject to meeting the approved health protocols.
With the above in mind, the Ports Authority has put the following extra reinforcements measures in place, not only for the safety of the passengers but for the ease of mind of all citizens;
Covid-19 Handling Process:
- International cruise ships will be allowed only in the ports provided “Free Pratique” has been issued by the Port Health Officer (PHO) from the Ministry of Health & Social Services
- Port Health Officer (PHO) will carry out thermal screening of all the passengers and crew onboard the vessel. Alternatively, this activity can be carried out by the cruise medical personal with the assistance of the PHO. Until such time clearance by PHO is completed, passengers will not be allowed ashore. Port / Local hospital to assist PHO by supplying additional doctors and medical staff and logistics etc.
- Shipping Agent/Master of Vessel to submit all documents related to crew and passengers regarding their travel to/from the COVID-19 affected countries. No sick passengers/crew allowed on board the vessel by Shipping agent/Master of Vessel.
- If any passengers/crew show symptoms of the disease, disembarking of such passengers/crew is not permissible. Samples of the patient are sent for lab testing, if the outcome of the sample tests positive, the passenger is taken to an isolation facility attached to the Port and the vessel will be required to leave. If the outcome of the sample is negative, the passengers and crew may disembark the vessel. A declaration to follow this procedure must be adhered to by all vessels before entering Namibian ports.
The Namibian Ports Authority is confident that the measures put in place are adequate and will be able to give our visitors a safe and enjoyable Namibian experience. As an entity, our first responsibility lies with ensuring the safety of our workforce, port users and the Namibian community at large.
Namport remains appreciative that the tourism industry is a key player in Namibia’s economy and we continue to be committed to advancing the country’s drive of economic recovery.
During the month of December the following passenger liners are expected to call the Port of Walvis Bay; the MSC Lirica 09, 15, 20, 24 and 31 December respectively and the final passenger liner, Norwegian Jade will arrive on 31 December 2021.
Should you have further enquiries on this matter, kindly liaise with our Manager Corporate Communications, Ms Taná Pesat on T.Pesat@namport.com.na
