United Kingdom - Security
Security for Yachts visiting the UK
Overall Crime and Safety:
The UK is generally a safe country. Like anywhere, keep your belongings safe and concealed and lock your boat. If in a city centre be aware of pickpockets and in London choose a tube carriage with other people inside.
Maritime Issues:
England’s South Coast has seen a sharp increase in migrants crossing the Channel in small boats since 2021. Figures published by the Government for the last 7 days can be found here. See this report for more details and what do do if you encounter a migrant boat.
Border Force has partnered with Crimestoppers to create the Coastal Crime Line to keep the country safe. The Coastal Crime Line was established to give everyone the ability to contribute to the protection of UK maritime ports and coastal communities against illegal and hostile conduct that could put people at risk. Boaters are urged to report any shady behavior they spot around the nation’s coastline anonymously by calling 0800 011 3304 or by reporting it online.
Emergency Numbers:
- Coastal Crime Line (as above): 0800 011 3304
- 999 is the main emergency number for police, ambulance, fire brigade, coastguard, cliff rescue, mountain rescue, cave rescue, etc.
- 101 is the non-emergency number for police, when you don’t need an immediate response.
- 111 is the National Health Service help line.
- 112 is the Coastguard.
Last updated: April 2024
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I’m sailing from Norway to Britain with a dog. I’ve come to realize Shetland is a no go port. Is it at all possible for us to sail around Britain with a 35 kilo dog, that has all his relevant documents? He’s been to other European countries over the past 5 years with no problem. Any advice?
I’m looking of buying a yacht but looking to live on it within either a marina or at a mooring. The yacht would be around 40 foot in length. I’m have trouble finding a marina that allows live aboard while in a marina. Would be grateful if someone can point me in the right direction.
Many thanks Chris
Hi Chris, 100% recommend you join the Cruising Association (CA) and ask their advice. They have a huge membership base in the UK and will be able to let you know the score re. living aboard there.
From my own experience a week ago, I can add Yarmouth in the Solent as a port for supply/shelter during corona shutdown for yachts in transit.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YACHTS VISITING THE UK
It is important to remember that the UK is not part of the Schengen Area Agreement, so it is necessary for any boat with non-EU nationals on board to clear with UK Immigration (many non-EU visitors would be granted a 6-month visitor’s visa).
Failure to report means you are illegal immigrants!
EU citizens automatically have the right to stay (at the moment). The UK leaving the EU will change many regulations.
Non-EU citizens can only freely move within the Schengen Area (for 90 days in any 180 day period) once cleared into their first designated Schengen country. EU countries outside Schengen must be cleared into in the usual way.
It is not unusual for those from outside Europe do not understand the difference between the Schengen Area and the EU. For a full explanation see noonsite’s EU page – http://www.noonsite.com/General/EuropeanUnion