Ship-to-Ship Oil Transfers in Gulf of Oman Slow After Recent Vessel Attacks
Oil transfers between tankers in waters outside the Strait of Hormuz have slowed following a wave of recent attacks on vessels by Iranian forces, according to satellite analysis and sources.Since the start of the Iran war in late February, ship-to-ship (STS) transfers between tankers have helped enable oil to leave the Gulf despite the threats to commercial vessels sailing through the Strait of Hormuz.Under the practice, tankers using one of two makeshift routes close to either…
INTERCARGO Issues First Dry Bulk Ship-to-Ship Transfer Standard
INTERCARGO has published the first dedicated ship-to-ship (STS) transfer guidelines for dry bulk carriers, as such operations expand into new trading regions and offshore locations with limited port infrastructure.The ‘Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines for Bulk Carriers’ establishes a framework for dry bulk STS operations, covering planning, risk assessment, maneuvering, fendering, cargo handling and emergency response procedures.STS transfers are increasingly used in dry bulk shipping where ports cannot accommodate vessel size…
UK’s Portland Port Expands Services with LNG Transfer Capability
Portland Port in Dorset has been approved to carry out liquefied natural gas (LNG) ship-to-ship transfers, expanding its fuel handling capabilities.The port, which is already operational for oil and liquefied petroleum gas transfers, said the addition of LNG ship-to-ship operations enhances its service offering.“Our new STS licence means that we can now support LNG transfers directly at our port.“It will help reduce transit times and streamline operations for the LNG supply chain while providing access to a fully compliant and experienced marine infrastructure…
INTERCARGO Convenes Industry Leaders to Tackle Approach to Dry Bulk STS Transfers
INTERCARGO brought shipowners, charterers, insurers and service providers together in Athens on March 31 to tackle a growing issue in dry bulk shipping: how ship-to-ship (STS) transfers are actually carried out.STS in dry bulk is no longer occasional. It is becoming part of day-to-day operations as larger vessels and limited port infrastructure force cargo to be moved offshore. However, the sector has reached this point without a clear, shared way of performing STS safely and efficiently.In tanker shipping, STS follows established practices for over twenty years.