Dominica resumes Ferry services under strict protocols

Roseau, Dominica: The government of Dominica on Tuesday announced the resumption of Ferry services to the country. Parliamentary Secretary Chekira Lockhart-Hypolite stated the decision had been taken under approved protocols. The services are allowed to resume on a phased basis, and in the initial phases, only 50 persons are allowed to disembark in Dominica per trip.Due to the pandemic, the government of Dominica had closed down Ferry services in March 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic; since then, people have been demanding resumption. Parliamentary Secretary Chekira Lockhart-Hypolite said Dominica has a long history of social and trade connectivity with neighbouring French islands via Ferry. "Dominica is very happy to welcome back our neighbours via Ferry," said Hypolite during a press conference on Tuesday.Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, International Transport and Maritime Initiatives Chekira Lockhart-Hypolite also stated that the French islands contribute highly to stay-over visitors in Dominica. She said the tourism department worked closely with the ministry of health to ensure that new protocols are introduced as Ferry services start operations.The protocols for Ferry passengers are the same as those travelling to Dominica by air. Protocols for Ferry passengers

• A Negative PCR test taken 72-hours prior to arrival 
• Health notification of approval to travel to Dominica
• Completion of health questionnaire upon arrival
• Vaccination certificate (if present)

For Vaccinated Passengers- Upon arrival, vaccinated travellers will undergo antigen tests, and if negative, the person will be medically cleared.Non-Vaccinated Passengers-  Antigen test followed by a five to seven days mandatory quarantine.