Police officers to stay on board cruise ship in Cornwall for G7 summit
Around 1,000 will get to stay on the cruise ship in Falmouth
Last updated 18th May 2021
A cruise ship has been hired to help accommodate police officers during the G7 summit in Cornwall.
Devon and Cornwall Police will be using the MS Silja Europa which will be moored in Falmouth for 10 days and used by police for accommodation, catering and other "essential facilities".
It has around 1,150 passenger cabins.
A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson for G7 planning said: "We will be deploying over 6,500 officers and staff to this event and we are supporting a vast range of local businesses and suppliers as part of our extensive logistical arrangements.
"This includes using over 4,000 rooms at almost 200 venues across Devon and Cornwall which will support local communities and accommodate police officers and staff deployed from across the UK.
"In order to secure further essential capacity, we reviewed a number of options and recently agreed to hire the Silja Europa, operated by Tallink; taking into account impacts to the environment, community, the operational needs, and those of our officers and staff. "
Devon and Cornwall Police
The MS Silja Europa, which is usually used for Baltic cruises, has seven restaurants and coffee shops, a nightclub, live music venue and full spa and beauty salon.
But it is understood that the facilities will be closed, with only the restaurants available to officers.
It is also reported that the theatre may be used for daily police briefings.
“The vessel will remain static, moored in Falmouth, used for a 10 day period, with only the accommodation, catering and other essential facilities in use.
"We are working closely with the vessel owners, ports authorities and health partners to ensure the safe use of this accommodation.
"Those staying onboard will strictly follow all the applicable COVID safety guidelines, enhanced by daily testing - consistent with staff staying at all other accommodation sites across the force area."
Devon and Cornwall Police
6,500 officers will be policing the summit in Carbis Bay in June, with around 5,000 of those coming from outside of the force area.