The State Duma of the Russian Federation has abolished the border control for Russian cruise ships in ports located in the areas of internal sea waters and the territorial sea of the Russian Federation in the Arctic zone and the Far Eastern Federal District.
"Now, the rules of the border control will not apply to cruise ships under our flag, if they enter Russian entry points and ports in the areas of internal sea waters in these territories," said Vasily Piskarev, chairman of the State Duma Committee on Security and Anti-Corruption.
"The only necessity will be to notify the border authorities about the route, passengers and crew members."
According to the parliamentarian, now domestic cruise companies and tour operators will be able to form more attractive routes compared to foreign companies.
"The Russian Arctic and the Far East will receive new opportunities for the economic development of touristic areas and the creation of new jobs," Piskarev said.
The law will enter into force 180 days after the date of its official publication.
Alex Shishlo for Rough&Polished
