Intercargo Hosts Key Meeting on Dry Bulk Ship-to-Ship Transfers in Athens
The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (Intercargo) convened a significant meeting in Athens, focusing on the increasing prevalence of ship-to-ship (STS) transfers in the dry bulk shipping sector. This gathering brought together shipowners, charterers, insurers, and service providers to address the complexities and safety concerns surrounding STS operations. As larger vessels and limited port infrastructure necessitate offshore cargo movements, the need for a standardized approach to STS has become critical.
During the session, experts highlighted that STS transfers in dry bulk shipping are no longer rare occurrences but are becoming integral to daily operations. Unlike tanker shipping, which has established STS practices over the past two decades, the dry bulk sector has developed its own unique methods influenced by various factors, including cargo type and local conditions. This divergence has led to a lack of uniformity in executing STS transfers, raising concerns about safety and efficiency.
Intercargo Chairman John Xylas opened the session, followed by a comprehensive presentation from Dimitris Monioudis, Chair of the Intercargo Technical Committee. Contributions from industry leaders, including representatives from NYK Group, DYNAMARINe, Britannia P&I Club, James Fisher, Charterwell Maritime, Oldendorff Carriers, and Maran Dry Management, underscored the multifaceted nature of STS operations. The discussions revealed the challenges posed by varying resources, changing weather conditions, and inconsistent application of procedures, all of which can significantly impact the risk profile of each transfer.
New Guidelines Aim for Consistency and Safety
A key outcome of the meeting was the introduction of Intercargo’s newly developed ‘Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines for Bulk Carriers.’ These guidelines, created with input from industry stakeholders, serve as a foundational step toward establishing a more consistent and safe approach to STS operations in the dry bulk sector. The guidelines aim to promote uniformity in procedures, thereby reducing the risk of disruptions during transfers.
In his remarks following the event, Xylas emphasized the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders involved in STS activities. He stated, “What this event showed clearly is that STS in dry bulk is no longer a niche activity. It is something the industry is already doing and doing more of.” He called for continued engagement from all parties to enhance safety and consistency in STS operations as the industry evolves.
Captain Panagiotis Nikiteas, HSQE Manager at Maran Dry Management, also spoke at the event, highlighting the significance of the new guidelines in fostering operational consistency and minimizing risks. By bringing together diverse stakeholders from across the maritime value chain, Intercargo aims to facilitate a more integrated approach to STS transfers. As the industry anticipates increased activity in this area, the emphasis on collaboration and adherence to established guidelines will be crucial for ensuring safe and efficient operations in the future.
