UNDERWATER_SERVICES

The Importance of Underwater Services

by GreecePort AgencyShipping AgencyUnderwater Services

The Importance of Underwater Services

Underwater inspections play a vital role in maintaining vessel safety, optimizing performance, and meeting regulatory requirements. The need for thorough hull inspections and cleaning services is driven by various factors and from various stakeholders of each vessel such as the shipowner, ship manager, charterer, and Classification society. Some of the key items that all the above are interested in are Fuel Efficiency & Vessel Performance, Structural Integrity & Safety, Environmental Protection & Regulatory Compliance. ⚓🚢🛠️

Fuel Efficiency & Vessel Performance

Over time, marine organisms like barnacles, algae, and mussels adhere to the hull’s surface, a phenomenon called “biofouling”. Biofouling increases the hull’s hydrodynamic drag leading to higher fuel consumption. Depending on the extent, it can cause a fuel penalty of up to 40% therefore a reduced fuel efficiency translates to increased operational costs and higher greenhouse gas emissions. From a charterers’ perspective, this can be a defining factor for a low rating of the vessel’s performance, lower freight rate for the owner’s side as well as fewer annual trading days.🚢 

Structural Integrity & Safety

Without regular inspections, corrosion, metal fatigue, or mechanical damage might go unnoticed. That is why early detection of such anomalies can significantly reduce repair costs and prolong the ship’s life. Minor undetected damages can progressively become major issues, risking vessel integrity and leading to potential catastrophes. Moreover, a compromised hull can jeopardize the safety of the crew, cargo, and marine environment since some hull breaches can lead to water ingress, impacting buoyancy and stability.⚓🔍

Environmental Protection 

All stakeholders in the maritime industry must keep on top of their priority list every type of environmental precautional measurement. A clean hull ensures that risks such exchange of bio-organisms from different locations and regions are minimized, safeguarding the marine ecosystem. Also, a potential increased fuel consumption due to fouling leads to more CO2 emissions, impacting global climate change.🌍

Regulatory Compliance

Many international and regional bodies have established standards and guidelines to ensure that ships maintain their hulls to minimize environmental and operational risks. Regular inspections and cleaning are necessary to ensure compliance with these regulations and to avoid potential penalties. Classification societies surveyors usually attend on board to carry out In – Water Surveys (IWS) with live video cameras to ensure that each vessel is in line with the Class and the IMO’s regulatory framework as well as to prevent any upcoming damage or deterioration of the vessel’s underwater structure.

At Karval Shipping Agency, we are proud to have an esteemed team of approved divers hailing from distinguished Classification Societies such as ABS, DNV, BV, LR, RINA & NK, stands ready to cater to all diverse underwater needs. Operating across various locations in Greece,  our divers are armed with a robust arsenal of specialized equipment from motorboats to diving cleaning brushes and robots, resulting in comprehensive and efficient services. Safety is a paramount concern, and our increased safety measures reflect our unwavering commitment to the well-being of our team and the assets we serve.🛥️

Moreover, our divers bring with them the expertise of approved welding procedures (WPQR), a testament to our dedication to holistic solutions. Whether it’s undertaking hull inspections, conducting cleaning operations, or addressing structural concerns, our divers are equipped with the skills and knowledge to handle a multitude of underwater tasks.🌊

For a closer look at the comprehensive suite of underwater services that we offer, we invite you to explore the diverse range of solutions:

  1. Hull Inspection & Pre-Purchase Reporting: Experienced divers conduct thorough inspections, assessing the condition of the hull and providing detailed reports. These reports aid in decision-making for vessel purchases, sales, or ongoing maintenance.
  1. In-Water Survey (IWS) with Class Presence & Live Video Monitoring: Divers conduct inspections with class surveyors present, utilizing live video monitoring to ensure compliance with classification society requirements. This method allows for efficient evaluations and immediate feedback.🎥
  1. Hull Cleaning & Propeller Polishing: Specialized equipment and techniques are employed to remove marine fouling from the hull and propeller in designated areas. This process improves vessel performance, reduces fuel consumption, and extends the lifespan of antifouling coatings.
  1. Underwater Steel Plate Repairs & Crack Welding: Certified divers possess the expertise and approved welding procedures (WPQR) to perform underwater hull plate repairs and welding operations, addressing cracks and structural issues identified during inspections.
  1. Tail-shaft and Rudder Measurements: Accurate measurements of tail-shaft and rudder components are conducted to ensure proper alignment and optimal performance. Also, this service can be proactive planning before the vessel’s upcoming vessel’s Special Survey or Docking Survey to ensure surprises once dry.

If you are interested in our hull inspection and hull cleaning services complete our provided PDA form. Alternatively, you are welcome to initiate contact via email at karval@karval.gr. Your inquiry will receive our prompt attention and a dedicated member of our team will be at your service to address your requirements.

TOWING

Towing Services: Ensuring Safe and Efficient Port Operations

by GreecePort AgencyShipping AgencyTowing

Towing Services: Ensuring Safe and Efficient Port Operations

Towing Services: Ensuring Safe and Efficient Port Operations 🚢
 
When it comes to maritime transportation, ensuring safe and efficient port operations is of utmost importance. One crucial aspect of port services is towing, which involves the movement of vessels within the harbor. Towing services play a vital role in assisting ships with berthing, canal passages, and emergency situations, ensuring the vessel’s and the port’s safety. ⚓️
 
At Karval we take pride in providing our clients with safe and precise harbor towing services at every Greek port. With a strong commitment to excellence, we offer a wide range of suitable tug boats, pontoons, barges, and even mobile cranes manned by highly skilled professionals who adhere to strict standards for safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance. 🏗️🌊
 
One of the key benefits of our towing services is the ability to cater to vessels of varying tonnages. From small tonnage vessels to the largest ones calling Greek commercial ports, our experienced team is well-equipped to handle any towing requirement. Whether it’s assisting with berthing at the pier or navigating through transit canals, we ensure a smooth and secure operation. 🛳️
 
To ensure seamless coordination and minimize port shifting costs, we prioritize clear and convenient communication between the vessel’s captain, the local port pilot, and our tug boat captains. This collaborative approach allows us to maintain high safety standards while optimizing the efficiency of port operations. By working closely with all parties involved, we strive to provide a cost-effective and reliable towing service that meets the unique needs of each vessel. 🤝💼
 
When it comes to towing services, safety is always our top priority. Our highly skilled professionals undergo rigorous training and follow strict protocols to ensure the well-being of both personnel and vessels. We are committed to upholding the highest safety standards in the industry, mitigating potential risks, and ensuring a secure environment for all port operations. 🛑🔒
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SUEZ CANAL AUTHORITY READY TO BOOST MARITIME COOPERATION WITH GREECE

by GreecePort AgencyShipping Agency

SUEZ CANAL AUTHORITY READY TO BOOST MARITIME COOPERATION WITH GREECE

The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) is embarking on a new era of collaboration and economic growth as it seeks to strengthen ties and stimulate investments with Greece, as stated by Chairman Osama Rabie on July 6th. Rabie’s announcement was made during a significant meeting with the new Greek Minister of Maritime Affairs, Miltiadis Varvitsiotis, which took place amidst the backdrop of the inaugural Greek-Arab Maritime Conference held in Greece. The conference served as a platform for fostering dialogue and cooperation between Greece and Arab nations, with a particular focus on maritime affairs. During their meeting, Rabie and Varvitsiotis explored various avenues to enhance cooperation in the maritime domain. With both countries possessing a strong maritime heritage and an essential role in global trade, the potential for mutual benefits through collaboration is immense.

The Suez Canal, as one of the world’s most critical waterways, remains a strategic axis of the global trade movement. Its significance lies in its ability to facilitate the efficient transit of goods and commodities between Europe and Asia, effectively bridging the gap between the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea.

By collaborating with Greece, a nation with a rich maritime tradition and extensive shipping industry, the SCA aims to harness collective expertise and resources to enhance the efficiency and safety of maritime operations. This ambitious collaboration between Egypt’s Suez Canal Authority and Greece’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs holds the potential to generate positive ripple effects throughout the global trade landscape. By leveraging each country’s unique strengths and expertise, the partnership can create new avenues for businesses, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen diplomatic ties between the two nations.

This collaboration holds promise for unlocking new opportunities, facilitating international trade, and contributing to the growth and stability of the region and beyond.

Importance of global cooperation between maritime countries

Cooperation between countries is crucial for enhancing development especialluy in mutual interest fields:

  • Joint Port Development Projects: One effective way to enhance maritime collaboration is through joint port development projects. In the past, countries like Singapore and Malaysia collaborated on developing the Port of Tanjung Pelepas (Malaysia) and the Port of Singapore. This joint venture allowed both countries to leverage their strengths, attract larger vessels, and handle increased cargo volumes more efficiently.
  • Cross-Border Trade Facilitation: In the Øresund Region, the cooperation between Sweden and Denmark demonstrated the power of physical infrastructure in promoting cross-border trade. The Öresund Bridge, a remarkable engineering marvel, connected the two countries, creating a seamless link for both road and rail transport. This bridge facilitated smoother trade and transit between Scandinavia and mainland Europe, enabling businesses to expand their markets and access a broader customer base. The partnership between Sweden and Denmark was not just about building a bridge; it was about fostering a sense of economic unity and cooperation. The region saw increased business opportunities, as companies capitalized on the enhanced connectivity to explore new markets and attract investments. Moreover, the cultural exchange and people-to-people interactions that resulted from this collaboration contributed to a more interconnected and cohesive community within the Øresund Region.
  • Environmental Initiatives: The Clean North Sea Shipping project brought together several North Sea countries with a shared vision of sustainable maritime practices. Pollution from shipping had been a growing concern, impacting marine ecosystems and coastal communities. By joining forces, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, and Norway committed to implementing stricter environmental regulations, promoting the adoption of cleaner technologies, and sharing best practices across the region resulting a reduced maritime pollution and improved the overall sustainability of shipping operations in the North Sea area.
  • Training and Skill Development: The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Maritime Cooperation between Australia and Indonesia highlighted the importance of capacity building and skill development in the maritime sector. Australia recognized Indonesia’s potential as a strategic maritime partner in the region and decided to invest in enhancing the capabilities of Indonesian maritime professionals.Through various training programs and skill development initiatives, Australia contributed to improving maritime safety and security in Indonesia. This collaboration not only fostered better-coordinated maritime operations but also led to increased regional stability and strengthened ties between the two neighboring countries.
  • Promotional Events and Conferences: Karval Shipping’s active participation in the Norwegian Nor-Shipping exhibition, and the Posidonia international maritime exhibition in Greece represent prominent examples of international maritime exhibitions. A number of countries showcase their naval capabilities and promote their ports at these events, providing the opportunity to establish new business partnerships as well as showcase their maritime capabilities.

CONCLUSION: Drawing inspiration from these historical examples, the Suez Canal Authority and Greece have a valuable opportunity to forge a robust maritime partnership. By focusing on specific areas of cooperation, such as information sharing and coordination, cross-border trade facilitation, environmental initiatives, training and skill development, research and development collaboration, and participation in international promotional events, both countries can leverage their strengths and address challenges in their maritime sectors.

Through joint projects and knowledge sharing, they can collectively enhance efficiency, sustainability, and safety in their maritime operations. Moreover, promoting their collaboration through international events will attract global attention and establish their presence as important hubs in the maritime world. By taking proactive steps towards cooperation and mutual growth, the Suez Canal Authority and Greece can chart a course towards a prosperous and enduring maritime partnership.

Greece’s Piraeus port welcomes mega container vessel

Piraeus Port joyously welcomed the arrival of OOCL PIRAEUS, a magnificent new vessel constructed by Orient Overseas Container Line Europe (OOCL) and recognized as one of the largest container ships globally. Embarking on its inaugural 84-day round trip voyage, which connects Asia and Europe, this impressive container vessel reached the Piraeus Container Terminal S.A. (PCT) on Monday. PCT, a subsidiary of COSCO Shipping, proudly hosted the vessel’s arrival. OOCL PIRAEUS boasts remarkable dimensions, measuring 399.9 meters in overall length and 61.3 meters in molded width. With a nominal container capacity of 24,188 TEUs, this ship ranks among the largest container vessels in the world, as confirmed by a press release from PCT. During a special welcome ceremony, Zhang Anming, the managing director of PCT, highlighted the significance of the vessel’s presence, symbolizing the Port of Piraeus’ pivotal role in the new trade route bridging the Far East, Europe, and Africa. Today, Piraeus stands tall as one of the premier container ports in the Mediterranean and ranks among the top four essential sea trade hubs in Europe, reinforcing its strategic importance in global commerce, according to Zhang. Thanks to PCT’s takeover of Piraeus’ terminals II and III in 2010, the port has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as one of the most vital hubs for international freight transport in the Mediterranean and Europe. The arrival of OOCL PIRAEUS marks yet another milestone in Piraeus’ journey toward becoming a key player in the global shipping industry.

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Husbandry Services- Karval Shipping Agency Experts

by GreeceHusbandryPort AgencyShipping Agency

Husbandry Services- Karval Shipping Agency Experts

Karval Shipping Agency is a reliable professional ship-husbandry service provider at major Greek ports. We offer a wide range of services to ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of vessels during their port calls. These services are handled by dedicated husbandry agents specializing in non-cargo matters related to the ship.

Some of the main husbandry services offered include:

Hospitality arrangements: Assisting with hotel bookings, transportation, and permits for crew members during their stay in port.

Financial services: Facilitating cash-to-master transactions, ensuring that the ship’s financial needs are met.

Medical appointments: Coordinating medical assistance for crew members, including arranging appointments with local healthcare providers.

Mobs/demobs: Handling crew changes and providing support during crew transitions.

Documentation services: Assisting with the procurement of shore passes, visa applications, and letters of invitation for crew members.

Ship spare sourcing and delivery: Procuring and delivering necessary spare parts promptly.

Bunkering: Arranging the supply of fuel and lubricants for the vessel.

Ship and equipment repairs: Coordinating repairs and maintenance services for the ship and its equipment.

Underwater inspections: Arranging for commercial dive companies to conduct inspections and maintenance of the hull and rigging.

Towing service: Assisting with towing operations, if required.

Survey arrangements: Facilitating any type of survey needed for the vessel.

Choosing Karval Shipping Agency’s husbandry services offers several advantages. With our extensive experience and strong connections in the marine sector, we ensure efficient and reliable service delivery. Our agents are available in all Greek ports, making sure that they’re able to help whenever needed. We prioritize protecting our client’s interests and offer cost-effective solutions. By relying on a single point of contact, vessel operators and charterers can save time and money. Karval Shipping Agency’s commitment to professionalism and expertise makes them a trusted choice for maritime stakeholders.

Overall, ship husbandry services provided by Karval Shipping Agency encompass various essential tasks to maintain vessels, comply with regulations, and ensure smooth port operations.

Electricity demand for future ships –a power shock for ports

Increasingly, ports are under pressure to reduce the carbon footprint of vessels calling at their berths, and that means utilizing shoreside power.

While most operational efficiencies can only be achieved on ships themselves, away from ports, shore-based power can be highly efficient if ports accept their new role as green energy generators.

This is one of the best examples of high-performing shore power in California’s ports, which have strict regulations to reduce at-berth emissions. “Berth regulations at all California ports have driven the increased implementation of shore power systems,” Zabel said. Wärtsilä has installed its container shore power solution more than 150 times in California’s ports to connect cargo ships to local power sources.

To reduce emissions in its ports and cities, the Chinese government is also promoting shore power solutions. In 2019, China mandated that new domestic vessels be equipped with shore power. Europe will soon tighten its port regulations concerning emissions, accelerating the widespread adoption of shore connection systems, according to Zabel.

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Nor-Shipping Exhibition 2023

by EventsGreecePort AgencyShipping Agency

Nor-Shipping Exhibition 2023

Nor-Shipping is a prestigious event that has been attracting key players in the maritime industry for nearly 60 years. The event provides a platform for strategic deal-making, networking, and collaboration opportunities for leaders across the entire maritime value chain, including representatives from the press.

One of the primary focuses of Nor-Shipping is sustainable ocean development. The event aims to assist leading maritime players in charting profitable courses into the future while aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The event serves as a showcase for cutting-edge Norwegian and international companies to highlight their innovations that provide a competitive advantage to their customers. Nor-Shipping facilitates the convergence of the maritime, tech, finance, and broader business segments, fostering a platform for mutual learning, forging partnerships, and accessing new economic value-creation opportunities. Delegates and visitors have the opportunity to experience firsthand the products, services, and companies that are driving the new age of ocean industry development.

The European Union funds the Greek port of Alexandroupolis with $26.0m

An investment of 26 million euros has been secured by Greece to upgrade the port of Alexandroupolis in the Northern Aegean Sea. As announced by the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF), the funds will enhance the port’s facilities and transform it into a regional energy hub. Alexandroupolis, located near Bulgaria and Turkey, has previously been used by the US military to unload and transfer munitions to NATO’s western flank. European energy imports will be able to enter the port through this port. Additionally, a floating gas and regasification unit (FSRU) is being built near the city by Gastrade, which will store and transport liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Europe. As Greece and Bulgaria seek to revive a pipeline for transporting crude oil from the port to Burgas, the development is expected to benefit both countries. According to HRADF, EU funds will be used for dredging works and road infrastructure construction. Finally, end of last year, the Greek Government decided to cancel the sale of a 67% stake in Port of Alexandroupolis, citing the port’s strategic, geopolitical, and energy significance for the country, emphasizing the need for its control by the Greek government. In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, HRADF noted that the port had gained greater value as a weapons facilitation center

Bunkering services

Interested in Bunkering Services? Important points to keep in mind.

by Bubkering servicesGreecePort AgencyShipping AgencySTS Operation

Interested in Bunkering Services? Important points to keep in mind.

Bunkering services refer to providing fuel to a ship either afloat or while the ship on a bunkering station. Many components are covered by ship bunkering services. The purpose of this article is to highlight the importance of bunkering services, as well as the important factors to think about when providing a ship bunker.

What are Bunkering Services?

Bunkering is the process of providing fuel for propulsion, mainly by other ships’ use (called bunker ship), including the logistics of loading and distributing the fuel on board. A person dealing in the trade of bunker (fuel) is called a bunker trader. The term bunkering originated during the steamship era when coal was stored in bunkers. The term bunker nowadays refers to petroleum products stored in tanks and bunkering to the practice and business of refueling ships. In seaports, bunkering operations include the storage and supply of ship fuel (bunker).

The importance of Bunkering

A bunker is important since it powers a ship’s engine and moves it from point A to point B. When buying bunkers, it is important to choose the right counterpart in order to secure the agreed bunker specification, quality and quantity on delivery. The expense for bunkers represent a large portion of a vessel’s daily OPEX, so it’s critical it’s bought at the right time, supplied as agreed, so the vessel isn’t delayed, and the quality is right so that the vessel doesn’t have problems burning the oil or worse, breaks down.

What is the process of bunkering?

Bunkering can take place onshore or offshore, with the bunkers pumped into the receiver vessel through a bunker hose. Bunkers can be loaded onshore using a tank truck or pipeline station; onshore bunkering is handled by a bunker barge, called STS (ship-to-ship).

What is ship-to-ship (STS) bunkering?

An STS or ship-to-ship transfer refers to the transfer of a ship’s cargo, which can be oil or gas cargo, between two merchant tanker vessels positioned alongside each other. Either the ships can stand still or the STS operation can also be performed while ships are underway. But it requires proper coordination, equipment, and approval to perform such an operation. Both the masters of the ships are responsible for the entire STS operation.

The stages of bunkering operation

The bunkering procedure on a ship can be divided into three important stages:

  1. Preparation– Preparing for the bunkering operation which will involve the readiness of bunkering equipment, storage tanks, and bunkering safety
  2. Perform– Performing the bunkering operation in real-time as per the pre-decided procedure and receiving the marine fuel according to the bunker plan
  3. Wrap-up– Wrapping up the bunkering operation with utmost safety and ensuring the correct amount and quality of bunker fuel has been received onboard from the bunkering facilities (bunker ship or shore truck etc.)

What are the three main types of bunkers?

The most common types of bunkers are Low Sulphur Fuel Oil, High Sulphur l Oil, and Low Sulphur MFueGO.

What is the cost of bunker fuel?

The price for bunkers depends on what kind of product is required, which port it is required in, and the current price level of the crude oil at the given moment. The market price is traded globally and is altered on daily basis based on numerous factors on a macroeconomic level.

What is the bunker cost in shipping?

It is the cost of the bunkers a vessel consumes to move cargo from A to B. The cost depends on which type of bunker the vessel use, how much is used, and at what market level it has been purchased.

Why choose Karval Shipping Agency for bunkering in Greece?

Our team can undertake all necessary formalities and coordination with the physical bunkering supplier chosen by the owner’s or charterers’ side and arrange the delivery on board once all procedures have been conducted and reported to the Port & Customs Authorities.

In addition, we can provide you with independent Bunkering Surveyors to be on board the vessel during the bunkering operation and take necessary measurements, prepare the respective reporting, and take the necessary oil sample.

Also, bunker oil sample analysis can be carried out in certified laboratories in Piraeus, Greece or to be sent abroad to the designated labs of the owners’ or charterers’ desire.

We support the recent IMO regulations towards CO2 emission reduction and we are closely monitoring the renewable fuels updates to keep our clients informed.

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Hull cleaning and propeller polishing

by Port AgencyShipping AgencyUnderwater Services

Hull cleaning and propeller polishing

KEEP THE CHARTERERS HAPPY

Greece’s crystal clear waters are not beneficial only to the visiting tourists but also to the trading vessels in our region. Numerous cases also in November with In Water Surveys (IWS) with the presence of Classification Societies as well as Underwater Hull Cleaning and Propeller Polishing services were carried out in different anchorage areas around Greece. Our diving teams are well equipped to carry out within one full day all necessary services, subject vessel’s hull condition, even to larger Suezmax tanker vessels. Detailed reporting is provided to all concerned parties and our trustful ladies are able to continue their trade on a more efficient way. Let’s keep the charterers happy!

GREEN FUEL SHIPPING: GOVERNMENTS URGED NOT TO MISS THE BOAT

A new report published on November 15th from the Tyndall Centre at the University of Manchester highlights the major role the shipping sector will play in transporting the green fuels necessary to meet global climate goals. The report provides insights on the implications for the shipping sector of different global energy scenarios pushing to limit global temperature rise to 1.5˚C, in line with the Paris Climate Agreement and the opportunities for shipping to support the global low carbon transition.

To achieve the Paris Climate Agreement’s goals, the authors identify low-carbon hydrogen and sustainable bioenergy as essential. The study found that government policies, including guaranteed markets and prices for producers and consumers, were hampering investment in the shipping infrastructure needed to support the global energy transition.

According to the International Energy Agency, there is a huge gap between what is planned and what is needed for low-carbon hydrogen by 2030: already-announced projects will only produce 24 million tonnes by 2030. Only 4% of these projects have reached a final investment decision. Government policies must be strengthened to give low-carbon hydrogen producers, shippers, and consumers the confidence they need to invest. According to the report’s co-author, Professor Alice Larkin, the shipping sector is crucial in transporting green fuels to meet the Paris climate goals. To meet the Paris goals, we must scale up the production of green fuels. Bioenergy and hydrogen converted into ammonia are transported by shipping during this global energy transition. According to the study, ammonia and bioenergy could be transported by sea in the same way as gas and coal in the future. The green hydrogen supply chain would require around 20 large ammonia carriers every year. Due to the timeline of 2–3 years for building new vessels, shipping industry representatives said they needed certainty about hydrogen production as soon as possible. According to the report, governments should send “stronger market signals” to the shipping industry to reduce the fear of new ships not being used to transport low-carbon fuels. The International Chamber of Shipping commissioned and welcomed the report. In its report, the Tyndall Centre identified several ways that government policy can be made more effective at enabling investment. It may be necessary to create mandatory mandates for increasing the percentage of green hydrogen, to create production credits for hydrogen production, or to provide producers and consumers with guaranteed markets and prices. USA, Germany, and India have already tested such measures.

The International Chamber of Shipping Secretary General Guy Platten said: “The shipping industry knows it has a crucial role to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the coming decades. Governments must develop much stronger policies to de-risk green hydrogen production before we invest. Both imports and exports of hydrogen must be supported by national hydrogen strategies. Despite the industry’s readiness, stronger market signals and infrastructure investment are urgently needed to make this happen. If the shipping sector can energize faster growth in sustainable fuels, it will be playing a pioneering role in closing the gap between grand theoretical plans and a real-world fit for future generations.

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Peak summer time for Karval Agency

by Port Agency

Peak summer time for Karval Agency

Summertime has been more than positively overwhelming for our Port Agency

With congestion easing at key ports in the U.S., this problem remains a major concern in other parts of the world, especially Europe.

The congestion at many European ports has reached critical levels, and with that not being enough, major European Terminals are witnessing reduced productivity, mostly caused by labor shortages.

A statement by Hapag Lloyd read that congestion at two French ports had reached critical levels, therefore a congestion surcharge is to come into effect.

Very high yard densities at North European container terminals and inland transport bottlenecks are aggravating port congestion problems in the trade between the Far East and North Europe. Container ships deployed on this route currently need on average 101 days to complete a full round voyage.

At Antwerp’s port, although operations remain stable, the holiday season has resulted in a reduction in labor availability. Most of the storage at the port is occupied, as the average yard utilization stands at 80 percent. ECT, Rotterdam, has similar conditions, with yard space up to 85 percent full and reefers at 100 percent plug utilization. The pick-up rate has improved for transshipment and import cargo, despite long dwell times.

At some ports and terminals, the peak has passed, however, there is still a lot of port congestion in the UK. With the congestion at ports taking its toll on the region, in many parts of Europe, limited trucking availability has clogged the movement of goods.

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