Stowaways remain a persistent challenge for ship security and crew safety, resulting in significant financial costs for the industry. With global migration by sea on the rise, encounters with distressed individuals are becoming more common. Prevention measures are crucial to avoid stowaways accessing ships, especially in regions prone to stowaway issues.
Nigerian stowaways were found on a vessel’s rudder in the Canary Islands after a dangerous journey from Africa. Detained by Salvamento Maritimo, they claimed to have boarded in Abidjan. Despite harsh conditions, they were in good health. Spanish authorities have seen an increase in migrants attempting to reach the Canary Islands by sea.
Britannia’s Club has been informed by Van Ameyde Marine about UK Immigration guidelines affecting seafarers receiving medical treatment in the NHS. New legislation emphasizes payment efficiency, with outstanding debts potentially impacting a seafarer’s immigration status. Qualifying debts over £500 could lead to visa refusal, affecting UK crew changes for shipowners.
