The UK government has issued a Port Barring Direction against the oil tanker Lunar Tide (IMO 9277735).
The order legally prohibits the vessel from entering any UK port or receiving pilotage services within UK territorial waters.
The measure was confirmed on 11 February 2026 through an update to the UK sanctions register.
The restriction applies to all UK ports and territorial waters.
The action was published by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office under its sanctions enforcement framework.
Why it matters for maritime
– A Port Barring Direction carries immediate operational effect access to UK ports and services is withdrawn.
– Vessel operators, charterers, and insurers must ensure screening against updated sanctions lists to avoid exposure.
– STS counterparties and associated tonnage may face heightened compliance review.
– The measure reflects continued enforcement focus on vessels linked to sanctioned oil trades.
No additional detention, boarding, or enforcement steps related to this vessel have been reported at this stage.
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