Hong Kong has relaxed restrictions on crew changeovers imposed because of coronavirus.
Shipowner organisation Bimco called the moves a "pragmatic approach", after the Maritime Department confirmed information on the new rules provided by the Hong Kong Shipowners Association (HKSAO).
Seafarers whose vessels are not involved in scheduled cargo operations will now be able to change shifts.
Outgoing crew members who have completed their service on board will be required to stay on the vessel during their stay in Hong Kong and travel directly to the airport for repatriation, to minimise contact with the local community.
Incoming seafarers should arrive in Hong Kong only when their ships are berthed in the territory and should get on board immediately upon arrival.
If there is a genuine need for them to stay in Hong Kong while waiting to board, shipping companies or agents should arrange accommodation for self-isolation.
Point-to-point transfers should be carried out to and from the vessel.
Others could follow lead
Bimco said it "applauds the work done by the HKSAO and welcomes the pragmatic approach taken by the Hong Kong administration.
"The acceptance of crew change on ships without scheduled cargo operations in Hong Kong is a milestone achievement in the maritime industry’s shared ambition to perform crew change during the Covid-19 pandemic. Hopefully, this deed will encourage other administrations to take similar steps."
About 150,000 crew are still stranded on vessels globally.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation's grace period allowing extensions to crew contracts expires on 16 June.
This applies for seafarers working under the International Bargaining Forum's collective bargaining agreement contracts.
