How we inspect vessels and ship sanitation certificates
What do we do
Although King's Lynn Port is not a Border Inspection Post, food stuffs such as wheat, barley and pulses may be exported as ingredients.
We inspect vessels to check:
- they are free from rodents
- the kitchen and living conditions are safe and hygienic
- the water supply is safe to drink
We'll also ask questions about:
- illness aboard the vessel
- controls in place to minimise the risk of infection spread
Ship sanitation certificates
If there is no evidence of a risk to public health a 'Ship Sanitation Control Exemption Certificate' will be issued. This will be valid for six months.
The costs
The cost will depend on the tonnage of the vessel:
Gross tonnage:
| Up to 1,000: | £100.00 |
| 1,001 - 3,000: | £135.00 |
| 3,001 - 10,000: | £205.00 |
| 10,001 - 20,000: | £265.00 |
| 20,001 - 30,000: | £340.00 |
| Over 30,000: | £400.00 |
Exceptions
Where the charges may be different:
- vessels with the capacity to carry between 50 - 1,000 persons: £390.00
- vessels with the capacity to carry more than 1,000 persons: £665.00
- extensions to the certificate: £65.00
We may add extra charges, based on actual costs incurred such as launch hire, out of hours duty, travel, or re-inspection of ships due to control measures.
Other agencies
Where we deem it necessary, we may also work with other agencies:
- to determine seaworthiness and welfare of visiting vessels
- to control potential outbreaks of infectious diseases, including the restriction of persons and animals being brought into port