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Sohar an option for Chinese nationals crew change

Photo: moto moto sc - Unsplash Crew on vessel
A requirement for two weeks quarantine for Chinese seafarers prior to taking flights back to China has made repatriation a headache, however, Sohar, Oman is an option according ship agency GAC.

GAC said that crew changes for Chinese nationals can now be handled the Oman port of Sohar “without restrictions”.

“Chinese crew must undergo 14 days’ quarantine before flying back to China, for which GAC can arrange a visa upon request, as well as local hospitals recommended by Chinese Embassy for testing,” the agents said.

As Seatrade Maritime News recently reported demand for Chinese national seafarers has soared to crew newbuildings leaving the country’s shipyards as it not possible to bring international seafarers into China.

However, the requirement for 14 days quarantine prior to flying back to China blocks many options for repatriation as a lot of countries require seafarers to fly out within 72 hours of leaving the vessel.