Coronavirus (Covid-19)
Steps we’ve taken at the port
Our aim is to enable you to sail with confidence from Portsmouth International Port. These are just some of the measures that we have put in place to ensure the safety of passengers and staff.
We are verified by the accredited classification society DNV GL in accordance with its My Care methodology. This verification demonstrates our capability to manage and prevent infection risks, including Covid-19.
Temperature scanner
The port has a contactless temperature scanner available, should operators want to use it for their passengers.
Hand sanitiser
We’re encouraging passengers to wash their hands as often as possible. In addition we have added hand sanitiser dispensers to all public areas, which are topped-up regularly.
Minimal touch points
Our modern terminal building is equipped with automatic doors which reduce physical contact. Our washrooms are fitted with hands-free flushes, washbasin taps and driers.
Social distancing
We’ve put social distancing measures in place within the port and terminal, which includes clear signage to help everyone keep a safe distance. Passenger seating areas have also been segregated.
Enhanced cleaning
We have always ensured that our terminal is cleaned to a high standard, but now we’ve enhanced the frequency even further using virucidal cleaners and paying extra attention to high-touch areas.
Parking
Our on-site multi storey car park allows passengers to maintain safe distancing, with passengers able to self-park within walking distance of the terminal. Alternatively, valet parking options are available.
Transfer buses
The drivers aboard our dedicated transfer buses are trained in Covid-19 precautions. They have reduced capacities to maintain social distancing, and are providing hand sanitiser.
Air supply
The terminal air supply is through environmentally friendly wind catchers, which ensure a continuous natural supply of fresh air.
Security controls
Physical contact is minimised through the use of screening equipment, including walkthrough metal detection arches, hand-held metal detectors and X-ray machines
Face coverings
Everyone should wear a face covering when inside the terminal, following the rules set by government.
Protective shields
Sneeze guards have been installed at passenger check-in desks and also at security control points.
Friendly staff
Our staff are looking forward to welcoming you and your customers with a smile.
Travel advice
Leaving the UK
There are restrictions and requirements in place to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Check the rules that apply to you in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Are there health checks before I board my ship?
Your sailing operator will let you know in advance if a temperature check or health screening questions will take place. We have a temperature camera, but this will only be used when requested by the ship operator. However, you should always take sensible precautions before leaving home to make sure you aren’t travelling with Covid-19 symptoms. Please make sure you’ve followed Public Health England guidance.
What restrictions are in place for hauliers heading to the EU?
You must test negative for Covid-19 before you cross the border into certain EU countries. Check if you need to get a test, and when you should get one at GOV.UK.
What will I need to do on arrival in my destination?
Our destinations have different requirements on arrival, and also different conditions for entry.
- For guidance on what you need to do and who can travel to France, check the Foreign Office website.
- If you are travelling to Spain, check the Foreign Office website to find out entry requirements.
- For the Channel Islands, please either check the Government of Jersey or States of Guernsey coronavirus information pages.
The entry requirements for my destination says I need to have a negative Covid-19 test result. Where can I get one?
The guidance we’ve been given by the UK government is that you need to order a private test from one of the companies on their list, ready for when you arrive in your destination. Please check with your travel operator for further information on services and bookings.
Do I have to wear a face covering?
To keep staff and other passengers safe, we request that you wear a face covering whilst in the terminal building, unless exempt. Please check with your travel operator for specific requirements on their services.
Do I need to do anything in advance?
Always check with the company you’re travelling with for more information on the requirements you need to follow. Our terminal building is open, and we many toilets available on site, before and after security, that you can use.
Why are security searches still being conducted?
The security threat level has not changed, with the checks being conducted mandated by the Department for Transport in compliance with the ISPS code. We are using non-contact equipment wherever possible to conduct these checks, but it may still be necessary to conduct a hand body search.
How can you safely manage close contact security checks?
Our staff carrying out security checks will be wearing appropriate levels of PPE, to protect both you and them. This includes gloves, which will be disposed of after each search where they come into contact with a passenger, and they’ll be wearing full face visors too.
Arriving in the UK
I’m a haulier, what do I have to do?
The latest guidance for hauliers is available from GOV.UK here.
Do I have to wear a face covering?
To keep staff and other passengers safe, we request that you wear a face covering whilst in the terminal building, unless exempt. Please check with your travel operator for specific requirements on their services.
What happens when I arrive as a passenger from France or Spain?
The latest requirements for testing and quarantine, are available on the GOV.UK website. Please contact your travel operator if you need further information. Portsmouth International Port staff are unable to answer specific queries.
What happens when I arrive in the UK from the Channel Islands?
You do not need to complete the form or self-isolate if you were there for 14 days or more. Please refer to border control guidance on what to do if you were there for fewer than 14 days here.