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DAILY COLLECTION OF MARITIME PRESS CLIPPINGS 2015 – 024

Distribution : daily to 32900+ active addresses 24-01-2015

Number 024 *** COLLECTION OF MARITIME PRESS CLIPPINGS *** Saturday 24-01-2015

News reports received from readers and Internet News articles copied from various news sites.

The POSH ENDEAVOUR anchored at the Selat Pauh anchorage in Singapore

Photo : Piet Sinke © CLICK on the photo and/or hyperlink in text

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EVENTS, INCIDENTS & OPERATIONS

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Stern view of Boskalis Semisubmersible transportbarge GIANT 5 arriving in Singapore last Wednesday

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Somalia has typically received the most attention in regard to pirate attacks, and a significant reduction in activity from pirates originating from that nation has contributed to an overall reduction in global piracy. The Seychelles News

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Did 2014 signal the end of physical piracy? Compared to the number of attacks that occurred between 2009 and 2013, 2014 was a relatively tempered year as far as oceanic piracy is concerned.

Statista noted 445 instances of ocean liners being infiltrated by pirates in 2010. Last year, that number decreased to 72 - a signal that the contentious environment that has stirred apprehension among procurement management officers and other professionals involved with the supply chain has largely decreased.The question is: Are distributors out of the water? In order to determine whether ships can freely traverse the globe's waters without taking precautions to protect themselves against pirate attacks, it's important to assess whether ocean-bound plunderers are simply employing new tactics or are hitting other logistics assets.

Statistics don't paint the whole picture

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Agency noted that consistent victories over al-Qaida-linked Somali terror group al-Shabaab by the African Union Mission has weakened the organization's hold over territories that have served as bases for Somali pirates.

Depending on who you speak with, a number of factors contributed to the rise of Somali pirates. The Telegraph reported that a lackluster fishing economy and the country's political collapse in 1992 spawned a nation berated by consistent clan wars. In the midst of a monetary environment that offers meager standards of living for those who choose to earn money through legitimate means, piracy presents itself as an attractive trade to up-and-coming denizens who want to rise out of the poverty they have been accustomed to. "Young people get attracted into this business because there is very high unemployment here, almost 100 percent, with no factories or industry," said former Puntland Interior Minister Mohamed Kalombi to the source. "But now they see the chance to make millions of dollars through crime. With their money, the pirates are buying weapons and even bribing the justice institutions so that they will not be caught."

While the election and acceptance of political moderate Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in late 2012 has brought a level of stability to the country, what precautions did enterprises take to deter pirates from disrupting their supply chains?

The rise of mercenary forces?

Reuters noted the Queen Mary 2, a British cruise liner that carries 2,500 passengers and 1,300 crew members, apparently hires armed private contractors to escort them through waters that are at risk of encountering pirates. This precaution has become routine for Cunard, a British ocean liner company. Although exact security measures were not disclosed to the news source, the company did confirm that mercenaries aboard other vessels regularly carry assault rifles similar to that of M-16s.

Despite the prevalence of private contractors, military networks are often leveraged for protection. Reuters referenced the establishment of the UK Maritime Trade Organisation, which allows British container ships, tankers, cruise liners and other vessels to register with UKMTO when they're traversing contentious waters.

Not out of the water yet

While these and other security measures have generally discouraged Somali pirates from conducting hijacks, Southeast Asia has not been exempt from such attacks. Maritime Executive noted that initiatives taken against small tankers throughout the region rose by almost 50 percent between 2013 and 2014. West African nations are also experiencing instances of piracy. The source noted that oil tankers have become the primary targets of Nigerian pirates. It appears, for the most part, these perpetrators are looking to steal the resource as opposed to holding vessels as ransom.

Regardless of these measures, consulting experts who keep a close on the wax and wane of piracy is advisable. Source : strategicsourceror

The RIDGEBURY ALICE M. inbound in Rotterdam Europoort – Photo : Peter Andriessen © www.tughunter.nl

FPSO to be evacuated More than 50 workers were due to be taken off Shell’s Curlew FPSO off Scotland on Wednesday after an apparent gas leak. Shell said an incident had taken place on Monday evening about 130 miles south-east of Aberdeen. There had been reports of “bubbling” on the sea surface, the Evening Express said. The oil major added: “A release of gas

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was detected several hundred metres away from the FPSO at approximately 11pm.“All personnel are safe and accounted for, but as a precaution we are preparing to carry out a down-man of non-essential personnel while we carry out further investigations."Bad weather has prevented crew from leaving so far. A total of 36 essential staff will have to remain on the vessel while investigations are carried out.“Producers into the Fulmar Gas Line have been asked to suspend exports of gas pending further investigation," Shell said. Source : tradewinds

POSH Terasea’s SALVANGUARD hooking up to the OCEAN CONCORD, waiting for the FAR SEA to pull it’s anchors

before heading for Turkey. Photo : Capt : Neil Johnston - master TERASEA FALCON ©

Dry Bulk Equities to Rebound Modestly Amid Fragile Earnings

In 2014, the value of equity market participants in listed Dry Bulk companies eroded massively, with many companies losing more than half of their market capitalisation. At the start of 2014, the market expected earnings to improve on the back of recovery in underlying freight markets, but optimism soon turned to pessimism as the companies failed to meet expectations through the year. DMER believes the depressed market could recover partly in 2015 and expects

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underlying earnings to improve marginally. Devanshu Saluja and Rahul Kapoor, analysts at DMER stated, “We see a fragile earnings outlook for the Dry Bulk sector with an uptick in demand pushed late into the year. However, moderating supply growth should see better fundamentals emerge through 2015-16 and the improving supply-demand balance should see stock prices stage a modest rebound in 2015.” DMER has rated Navios Maritime Holdings and D/S NORDEN as Attractive, while it classifies Scorpio Bulkers as a high-risk, high-reward proposition. Navios Maritime Holdings is DMER’s top pick because of its flexible asset ownership and interest in different businesses. We expect steady growth in its dry bulk shipping segment and stronger traction in its logistics segment over the next few years. While stakes in Navios Maritime Partners and Navios Maritime Acquisition Corp generate value for the company, Navios’ leverage is expected to remain high. We accord a fair value of USD 6.2 per share, which provides significant upside, in addition to a dividend yield of ~6% at the current share price. Navios Maritime Holdings scores a green and an orange light on DMER’s bespoke value and risk ranking, indicating an Attractive valuation and Medium risk.

Vroon’s 2011 built 229 mtr long 92.974 DWT bulker SIBERIAN EXPRESS arrived from Gladstone and anchored off Singapore last week before heading for Mormugao in Indonesia – Photo : Piet Sinke © CLICK on the photo or hyperlink in text D/S NORDEN, which operates a fleet of dry cargo and tanker vessels, is DMER’s second pick because its strong balance sheet and high tanker shipping rates will counterbalance the near-term softness in dry bulk shipping. It also has a large proportion of charter-in fleet that allows it to maintain an optimal fleet size depending on market conditions. DMER expect the company to narrow its loss in FY15 before it turns profitable in FY16. At the end of 3Q14, the company’s debt-to-equity ratio stood at 17%, which we expect will increase to 28% at the end of 4Q16.The stock offers a favorable risk-reward profile with our fair value estimate of DKK 171 per share. D/S NORDEN also scores a green and an orange light on DMER’s bespoke value and risk ranking, indicating an Attractive valuation and Medium risk. Scorpio Bulkers offers a high upside potential considering that accelerated vessel deliveries in FY15 and FY16 will prop up earnings. According to our estimates, the company’s EBITDA will increase to USD 144m in FY16 from negative USD 53m in FY14 because of higher TCE revenues and operational efficiencies of its modern fleet. However, investment in SALT is a high-risk, high-reward proposition considering the company’s limited operating history and investors’ skepticism after the value-dilutive equity issuance. DMER assigns a fair value of USD 2.9 per share to the company, and expects it to be a candidate for bottom-fishing. SALT scores a green and a red light on DMER’s bespoke value and risk ranking, indicating an Attractive valuation and High risk. DMER “Neutral” on Pacific Basin and Diana Shipping Pacific Basin is a market leader in the Handysize segment with a steady earnings stream and strong balance sheet. The company’s vessel fleet has been acquired at low cost and its diverse customer and cargo base enhances its utilisation and earnings. However, the company’s focus on small-sized vessels decreases its leverage to cyclical upturns. DMER expects the company to report a net loss in FY14, although it should return to the black in FY15 benefited by incremental contributions from newbuilds. We assign it a Neutral rating with a fair value of HKD 3.1 per share. Pacific Basin scores an orange light each on DMER’s bespoke value and risk ranking, indicating a Neutral valuation and Medium risk. Diana Shipping is a leading operator of large-sized dry cargo ships with presence in Capesize, Post-Panamax and Panamax segments. DMER does not see material upside to the stock price in the near term because of sluggish freight rates, especially for Capesize vessels, and expects the company to post losses between FY14 and FY16, although Diana Shipping has a strong balance sheet and balanced spot-market exposure. DMER assigns a Neutral rating with a fair value of USD 6.5 per share. Diana Shipping also scores an orange light each





on DMER’s bespoke value and risk ranking, indicating a Neutral valuation and Medium risk. Source: Drewry Shipping Consultants Limited

Seen from Rederij Doeksen’s FRIESLAND the TERSCHELLINGER BANK of Waddentransport company which serves the route between Harlingen and the Dutch Wadden island Vlieland en Terschelling. Photo : Jeroen Dijksman ©

Maersk Interceptor Starts Drilling at Ivar Aasen

Drilling rig MAERSK INTERCEPTOR has started drilling program at Ivar Aasen field in the North Sea. The campaign extends over three years and represents a total of 15 wells and three pilot wells. The Norwegian oil company (The Norwegian) is operator for Ivar Aasen field (001B, 028B, 242, 338 and 457).

The drilling program for Ivar Aasen field starts with three pilot wells to further map the subsurface. The drilling of pilot wells will be completed by summer 2015.

The three pilot wells we drill is important for licensees. We get obtained important reservoir information earlier. This will create added value for Ivar Aasen license says Inge Strait, head of drilling operations for Ivar Aasen.

Drilling on Ivar Aasen will be conducted with the drilling rig Maersk Interceptor, the world's largest jackup rig. The rig has a contract with the Norwegian in five years with an option for two years. Ivar Aasen field will be developed with a total of 15 wells, respectively eight production wells and seven water injection wells.

Ivar Aasen field consists of three instances; Ivar Aasen, West Cable and Hanz. Ivar Aasen is located west of the Johan Sverdrup field and contain 210 million barrels of oil equivalent. Planned production start the fourth quarter 2016. The economic life may be 20 years, depending on oil prices and production development.

The Norwegian oil company ASA is the operator of Ivar Aasen development and holds a 34.7862 percent in the field. The other licensees are Statoil, Bayerngas, Wintershall, VNG, Lundin and OMV. For more information, please visit: http://www.detnor.no/borestart-pa-ivar-aasen

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The ALDEBARAN in the Ijmuiden locks – Photo : Erwin Willemse ©

Oceaneering Secures Hess Stampede Project

Oceaneering International, Inc. announced that it secured a contract in December 2014 from Hess Corporation to supply the umbilicals and umbilical distribution hardware for the Stampede Project located in the Green Canyon area of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. This hardware will be used to transmit hydraulic control fluids, chemicals, and electrical power signals to operate and monitor subsea wells and manifolds. The order is for electro-hydraulic, steel tube umbilicals totaling approximately 14.3 kilometres (8.9 miles) in length, umbilical termination assemblies, hydraulic and chemical distribution units, electrical distribution units, flying leads, and junction plates. Oceaneering plans to manufacture the umbilicals at its plant in Panama City, Florida and to manufacture the distribution hardware at its facilities in Houston, Texas. Umbilical production is expected to commence in the second quarter of this year, with delivery scheduled for mid-2016. For more information, please visit: http://www.oceaneering.com/

Violent crime against seafarers: Complacency and simple acts of humanitarian

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The MPHRP highlights the hardship inflicted upon seafarers and families.

Responding to recent articles and reports on current levels of maritime piracy intentionally MPHRP highlighted the worrying trend that they appear to avoid the word "piracy" in favour of "new forms of criminality", specifically "attacks" and "hijacking". The technical differences denoted by these terms aside, a basic truth is veiled: that violent crime is committed against seafarers.

Of Somali-based piracy in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean - the one region where the term "piracy" is accurately applied - Hon. Abdalla Jama Saleh, the Minister for Maritime Transport, Ports and Counter Piracy for Puntland, states that the pirates are "not defeated but dormant." Jama Saleh is charged with leading Somalia's counter piracy efforts by working with the international community to fight piracy inland and along the coast of Puntland. He spoke to Defence IQ about the decline of piracy off the Somali coast and how that has now given rise to new maritime challenges in the Gulf of Aden. In tandem with his remarks, it must be noted that the international community's naval

operations in the Indian Ocean, "Atalanta" and "Ocean Shield" have been extended until the end of 2016 amid warnings that, while Somali-based piracy in the Indian Ocean is held in check by multinational naval operations, pirates retain their capability to resume attacks, hijackings and hostage taking. The United Nations’ Contact Group for Piracy off the Coast of Somalia has also been given an extended mandate by its members. Meanwhile, 30 seafarers are still being held captive by pirates on Somali soil, In its recently released 2014 piracy report, the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) announced that “ship hijackings” in Southeast Asia spiked in 2014. While there have been fewer overall reports of piracy attacks (245, according the International Maritime Bureau - IMB), the number of hijackings in 2014 totalled 21 compared to 12 in 2013. “The global increase in hijackings is due to a rise in attacks against coastal tankers in South East Asia,” said Pottengal Mukundan, director of IMB and Member of the MPHRP Board. “Gangs of armed thieves have attacked small tankers in the region for their cargoes, many looking specifically for marine diesel and gas oil to steal and then sell.” The IMB highlighted “the death of a crew member shot in an attack on a bitumen tanker in December as a possibility the incidents were becoming more violent." The UK Chamber of Shipping has warned that progress made in the Indian Ocean should not mask significant security threats to shipping and seafarers in other regions, both off West Africa and in South East Asia – where a violent "petro-piracy" is thriving. UK Chamber CEO, Guy Platten, said that in these regions violent acts of maritime crime take place within the waters of functioning states. “This new form of maritime criminality, which often has links to shore-based oil theft, is taking place within the jurisdictions of functioning nation-states, but ones that pay little attention to maritime security and governance," Platten said. "Put simply, these regions have become a breeding ground for future pirates." The MTISC (Gulf of Guinea) guidance adds that seafarers themselves are key to combating piracy in the region: “Experience has shown in other parts of the world that maritime security cannot be improved by the actions of law enforcement agencies and militaries alone; it requires the full support of seafarers operating in the region. This is more



important in the seas off West Africa where navies, coastguards and law enforcement agencies have limited resources.” It follows that seafarers need to be made aware and be adequately equipped to counter piracy. Similarly, the Asian Ship Owners Forum has “expressed its grave concern over the growing threat of piracy in the waters of West Africa”, adding that “experience has … shown us that prompt and decisive action must be taken to nip the threat of piracy and armed robbery in the bud, before a handful of incidents can grow into a regional or even global problem that threatens the lives and well-being of thousands of seafarers”. Roy Paul Programme Director of MPHP said, “At the end of last year our team in South East Asia were involved in responding to the death of Mr. Tran DucDat, 3rd Engineer of the Vietnam flagged M/T VP Asphalt 2, the seafarers were tied up and the pirates searched a number of crew cabins and stole personal effects. The pirates then left the vessel and made their escape. The third engineer was found in his cabin having been shot in the forehead. Welfare responders from MPHRP assisted the family through the repatriation and burial of their loved one. He leaves a wife and two young daughters and MPHRP also assisted other crew members after these violent events”. MPHRP is assisting nearly 500 seafarers and their families who have been affected by piracy and armed robbery. (Picture attached of the Ashphalt 2, the family of 3rd engineer and seafarers and friends gather round the coffin). The industry is already investing heavily in shore side solutions to piracy. In Somalia several projects focus on creating jobs for Somali's and intend to create and restore law and order infrastructure to prosecute criminality. It is sad then, to report that in comparison little is being done to address the hardship of seafarers and families who have lost their lives, their health, their freedom and livelihood to piracy while they were simply doing the job that they were legally employed to do. It is our seafarers who bear the brunt of these criminal acts, irrespective of what these crimes are called or how statistics are counted. Ultimately, violent crime at sea will affect the recruitment and retention of career seafarers. The MPHRP warns against complacency. The MPHRP encourages continued efforts to ensure the safety of seafarers. The MPHRP calls for seafarers to be made aware, to remain vigilant and to apply themselves to protective measures against piracy. The MPHRP highlights the hardship inflicted upon seafarers and families. The MPHRP pleads for simple acts of humanitarian support for already affected seafarers and families and it can be contacted on [email protected] or www.mphrp.org

Spliethoff’s ACHTERGRACHT moored in Vitoria (Brazil) – Photo : Capt Jan Plug – Master Seven Waves ©

MOL's newbuilding coal carrier Shin Yahagi Maru to serve Chubu Electric Power

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. announced the delivery of the coal carrier SHIN YAHAGI MARU, which will serve Chubu Electric Power Co., Inc. , was delivered at Imari Shipyard and Works of Namura Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. on January 22, 2015, the company said in its press release The vessel, which was jointly developed by Namura Shipbuilding and MOL,


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is a state-of-the-art coal carrier with a wide-beam/shallow-draft configuration and wide range of advanced safety and energy-saving features. The vessel is so-called "Hekinan MAX" which has characteristic 250 meters length to l maximize transport volume to the discharging port, Chubu Electric Power's Hekinan Thermal Power Plant. The new vessel succeeds the Yahagi Maru, a coal carrier that served Chubu Electric Power for 21 years starting in 1992. It will play a central role in supplying coal to the company's thermal power plants under a new long-term consecutive voyage service contract. Source : Portnews

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CSSC Leasing signs first resale of bulkers ordered on spec

CSSC Leasing has successfully resold the first of 12 bulkers it ordered speculatively in 2013, exemplifying a new business model for China-built vessels funded with independent investment. The Hong Kong-based CSSC subsidiary sold a 64,000-dwt bulker resale to a unnamed third-party buyer from the CSSC Chengxi Shipyard. The resale of the bulker was contracted in the first half of 2014, but has just been made public. CSSC Leasing ordered 12 such 64,000-dwt ‘eco’-type bulk carriers from CSSC Chengxi in 2013. The company has worked to combine financing for both industry and investment since its establishment in 2012, supporting both domestic yards and international leasing clients. In May 2013, CSSC Leasing inked a contract with CSSC Chengxi Shipyard to construct two 38,000-dwt bulk carriers, which will be leased to Ukrainian owner Aquavita International. CSSC Leasing has helped CSSC shipyards win over 6m dwt in newbuildings since 2013. Source : sinoshipnews

ABS awards AIP for next-generation HD12000 Drillship

ABS, the leading provider of classification services to the global offshore industry, has awarded approval in principle (AIP) for Hyundai Heavy Industries’ next-generation HD12000 heavy duty, wide beam drillship design. The drillship, which can accommodate a 20,000-psi blowout preventer system, has been designed in full compliance with the ABS Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems (CDS Guide) and other applicable ABS Rules and industry standards, ABS said in its press release. The HD12000 drillship will be capable of operating in 12,000 ft (3,658 m) water depth with a drilling depth to 40,000 ft (12,192 m). Featuring an innovative hull form, the design based on HHI’s proprietary technology includes enhanced dynamic positioning (DPS-3) capability through reduced hull resistance and thruster interaction, improved motion performance in maximum roll angle, and reduced wave resistance at field transit conditions. “Awarding AIP is an important step toward supporting the evolving needs of our clients as we collectively work to enhance safety and efficiency standards,” says ABS Executive Vice President, Energy Development Ken Richardson. “Addressing greater complexity in offshore drilling, the ABS CDS Guide provides a comprehensive approach to classing offshore drilling systems and their associated support systems and equipment.” “This is an important milestone toward meeting the applicable classification requirements for validating the structural integrity of HHI’s latest generation of

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drillships,” says Mr. Yun-Sik Lee, Senior Vice President, Initial Design Team at HHI. “Through the award of AIP, the design of HD12000 has been developed and verified with improved versatility and strength, increased deck space, benign motion characteristics and a reduced maintenance profile.” As part of the basic approval work scope, ABS reviewed the concept design and associated configurations interfacing with the drilling equipment and systems that will be installed on board the drillship. “It is essential to verify new design concepts by an independent party and it is also desirable to share experiences throughout the collaboration process that can improve on the design early on,” adds Mr. Yun-Sik Lee, Senior Vice President. “AIP provides HHI and the future owner with the additional confidence to carry out this innovative design and improve drilling efficiencies.” ABS was the first to provide classification services to the offshore and energy industry in 1958 and continues to support the development and application of innovative floating concepts around the globe. Source : PortNews

Appeal to launch for new Penlee lifeboat station

PLANS are being unveiled today to build a new lifeboat station at Penlee amid the launch of an appeal by the RNLI to raise £200,000 towards its cost. Lifeboat crews at the historic station in Newlyn will officially launch the station appeal next week for the much-needed new building.The Cornishman will join volunteers in their fundraising effort, which will deliver more space for the 25 volunteer crew of the two lifeboats, as well as shore crew and fundraisers.

It is understood the current lifeboat house, which was built in 1983, will be pulled down and the new facility built in its place. The appeal and details of the new lifeboat station will be officially unveiled to the public at the station's annual meeting at the Fisherman's Mission on Tuesday. Patrick 'Patch' Harvey, coxswain of the all-weather lifeboat, said: "The lifeboat crew are extremely grateful to the fundraisers for taking on this massive challenge. "They already have a proud history of successful fundraising so I know they can do it. As a station we are all part of one big team and the crew will make every effort to ensure that they do their bit to help the appea "With a number of exciting events already being planned, I know many of them are itching for it to get under way. The end result will be a fantastic new facility that we can all enjoy the benefits of." While the majority of the funds needed will be raised through the RNLI's Key Investment Team, which includes trusts, grants, philanthropy and corporate sources, local fundraisers will use their annual meeting on Tuesday to launch the public appeal to raise £200,000 towards the total cost. Guy Botterill, RNLI community fundraising manager, said: "This is a very exciting time for the RNLI team at Penlee; £200,000 is by no means a small amount of money to raise, but I know the dedication and commitment of the volunteers at Penlee will make it happen."

Penlee lifeboat house is the base of RNLI search and rescue operations for the whole of Mount's Bay. Source : Cornishman

Saudi plans 8 ports in eastern province

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Saudi Arabia’s eastern Ahsa province is planning to construct eight new ports and a 230-km-long rail network as part of a new master plan, the province’s mayor has said. “There are plans to build eight new sea ports and dry ports (inland ports) within the strategic development plan for the province to cope with the expected influx of investment,” Adel Al-Melhem told the Saudi Arabic language daily Al-Watan. He said two new sea ports would be built in Uqair, 55 miles south of Dhahran, and Ras Abu Kamis near the border with Qatar on the Gulf coast while six dry docks would be constructed along the coast with an area of around five square km each.Al-Melhem said the plan also includes the construction of a 230-km-long rail network linking the existing rail between the Eastern port of Dammam and the capital Riyadh.“The province’s secretariat is also studying the feasibility of building a local airport in south Ahsa as well as a regional airport on Uqair coast,” he added. Source: Emirates 247

The THUN GARLAND enroute Amsterdam – Photo : Simon Wolf ©

Shipowners post millions to avoid ship arrests after OW Bunker collapse

SHIPPING lines are placing millions into US accounts to prevent ships being detained due to non-payment of bills for fuel supplied by the bankrupt OW Bunker, reports Reuters. This is in response to OWB USA and North America aggressively pursuing ship arrests to recover receivables under their bunker supply contracts, reports New York's Maritime Advocate. Consequently, US$12 million has been paid into a New York District Court to pre-empt arrest of ships for non-payment of bunker which were arranged through OWB, said the report. In a move to prevent the arrest of the Cosco Piraeus, a New Jersey court ordered that $938,607 be paid into a law firm's trust account to cover bunker supply arrears. Similarly, shipowners and operators in Singapore have also deposited funds into court to avert the risk of their vessels' being arrested by parties seeking to enforce their claims for non-payment of bunker fuel bills.A bond for about US$180,000 has been paid into court on behalf of Hapag Lloyd to cover unpaid bunker bills, said Peter Gutowski, a partner in Freehill Hogan & Mahar. This indicates the growing impact from the collapse of the Danish firm and the biggest bunker provider was spreading. Amid allegations of fraudulent trading in Singapore, OW Bunker filed for bankruptcy in November after losing almost $300 million, leading to claims by distributors who sold bunker on behalf of OW Bunker but had not been paid. Some 13 cases involving bunker bills totalling about $12 million have been filed at New York's southern district court, a maritime lawyer said. US court documents show 11 firms, including Germany's Hapag Lloyd and European gas carrier Exmar, have agreed to pay about $10.3 million into court and a law firm's trust account since November. A New Jersey judge agreed last week that $938,607 be paid into a law firm's trust account to cover unpaid bunker bills and prevent the detention of the 49,997-dwt containership Cosco Piraeus. Robert O'Connor of law firm Montgomery McCracken Walker & Rhoads, which acts for OW Bunker USA and OW Bunker North America and took action against Cosco Piraeus, said: "The ship is no longer under threat of arrest." Source : Schednet



CASUALTY REPORTING

U.S. naval ship grounded off Japanese

coast An American naval cargo ship has run aground off the Japanese coast, east of Okinawa, and efforts are underway to refloat it, the U.S. Navy said Thursday. "The safety of the civilian crew members and the environment are our top priorities. So we're taking this situation very seriously and will continue to investigate the situation until it's resolved," said Cmdr. William Marks, spokesman for the U.S. Navy 7th Fleet. Last mission for storied class of warships

The U.S. Navy identified the ship as the Military Sealift Command prepositioning vessel USNS SGT. MATEJ KOCAK and said it was stuck 6 nautical miles off the coast of Uruma on the island of Okinawa.Tugs were at the location, assessing the best way to free the vessel in conjunction with the Japanese.The ship carries 131 crew members, and all were unhurt and still on board, while no leaks or hull damage was reported, the Navy said source : CNN

NAVY NEWS

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jan. 21, 2015) Lt. Cmdr. David Garrett, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS AMERICA (LHA 6), uses a flag to signal the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS HENRY J KAISER (T-AO-187) during an underway replenishment. America is the first ship of its class and is optimized for Marine Corps aviation. Photo : US Navy – CLICK on the photo !

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China launched its 4th Type 071 LPD, its 21st Type 054A Frigate and its 5th Type

815G ELINT vessel Hudong-Zhonghua

Shipbuilding, a wholly owned subsidiary of China State

Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC, the largest shipbuilding group in China), launched on the same day near Shanghai three new vessels for the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN or Chinese Navy): The fourth Type 071 landing platform dock (Yuzhao-class LPD), the twenty-first Type

054A Frigate (Jiangkai II class) and the fifth Type 815G ELINT/SIGINT vessel. On the same day China launched 3 military vessels (representing over 32,000 tons combined) showing to the world its naval shipbuilding industry's might. Type 071 landing platform dockType 071 (Yuzhao-class) LPD are the main amphibious platforms of the PLAN. They displace 20,000 tons, measure 210 meters long and 28 meters wide. The ship complement is 120 sailors. Each Type 071 has the capacity to accomodate one marine battalion, including 500 to 800 troops, and 15 to 20 amphibious armored vehicles. The well deck may hold four Yuyi-class LCAC. The ship is armed with one 76 mm gun and four 30 mm close-in weapon systems. The head of Type 071 class, Kunlun Shan (hull number 998), was launched in December 2006 and commissioned in November 2007. The second vessel of the class, Jinggang Shan (hull number 999), was launched in November 2010 and commissioned in October 2011. The third Type 071 LPD Changbai Shan was launched in September 2011. All three vessel are deployed with the PLAN's South Sea Fleet. Type 054A Frigate Based on the Type 054 Frigates, the Type 054A incorporated a larger number of more-advanced indigenous systems. The first of class entered service with the PLAN in 2007. Type 054A Frigates are fitted with 32 VLS (Vertical Launch System) cells for HQ-16 surface to air missiles, 8 C-803 anti-ship missiles, a H/PJ-26 76mm main gun, two Type 730 30 mm CIWS guns (for frigates 1 to 16 in the series), two triple YU-7 torpedo launchers and anti-submarine rocket launchers for ASW warfare. Source : navyrecognition



SHIPYARD NEWS

Arrival of oil rig in Belfast welcomed for jobs boost

Photo : Gavin McGregor (Belfast) ©

The jobs boost created by the refurbishment and refit of a monster oil rig in Belfast has been warmly welcomed by local councillors. Weighing in at more than 11,000 tons, the BYFORD DOLPHIN could create up to 1,000 contracted jobs at Harland & Wolff for workers with the appropriate skills.

The multi-million pound contract is also expected to have a trickle-down effect, with the hospitality industry benefiting from an influx of workers from outside Northern Ireland. The massive, floating structure arriving in the city is the sister of the BLACKFORD DOLPHIN - a rig which spent six months being refurbished at the shipyard last year. East Belfast councillor John Kyle said the announcement was a much-needed boost - especially with its job opportunities for newly-qualified young local welders. “Belfast Met, Harland & Wolff and DEL set up a welding academy and now the first graduates will be getting valuable experience on site,” he said“ We now have a training pathway for young people to

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gain work experience in Harland & Wolff.“It’s great news and it also has a cascade effect for other local businesses,” the PUP representative said. DUP councillor Adam Newton is also pleased at the rig’s arrival.“It is great news and if they can continue to get these rigs in then it is nothing but good news for the local economy.”The 355ft BYFORD DOLPHIN was originally built in 1974 and is owned by Aberdeen-based Dolphin Drilling. It can drill down to around 6,000 metres and can operate in water as deep as 460 metres. Its owner is one of the longest-established companies of its kind. The rig’s arrival in the shipyard had been delayed for several days due to adverse weather.It was eventually guided along Belfast Lough by tug boats on Saturday after waiting at the mouth of the lough.The same rig previously visited Belfast for repair work back in 2004. Source : newsletter

Saab and Damen Team for Walrus Future Submarine Replacement Programme

Swedish defence and security company Saab is teaming with Dutch shipbuilder Damen Shipyards Group to explore future opportunities in the international submarine market. The companies have signed an exclusive teaming agreement to work together in pursuit of the potential Walrus-class submarine replacement programme for the Netherlands. In addition to this project, Saab and Damen will also explore ways in which they might bid jointly on other submarine procurement programmes. Through the acquisition of Kockums Saab has extensive experience in the design and manufacture of submarines and surface vessels for a global customer base, integrating advanced systems and using a range of ultra-modern materials and construction techniques. Key technology includes Saab’s unique Air Independent Propulsion System based on the Stirling engine. In addition, Saab delivers many complex defence programmes in cooperation with governmental and commercial partners in customer nations worldwide.

Damen delivers about 160 vessels annually and is known for its unique ship-design concepts, due to its sharp focus on research and development, standardisation and modularisation. Its defence and security portfolio includes vessels ranging in size from 7 m to over 200 m. Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding (established in 1875) supplies major surface vessels to navies worldwide. Saab and Damen, both independently-owned companies, are confident that their combined skills, expertise and substantial R&D capacity will accelerate submarine development. Hein van Ameijden, managing director of Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding, says:“we are convinced that with Saab we have found the ideal partner to realise a successor to the present Walrus class; a vessel that will set a new standard for non-nuclear submarines. The complementarity of both our companies opens up the potential for a successful cooperation in more submarine programmes worldwide.” GunillaFransson, head of Saab business area, Security and Defence Solutions says:“Saab Kockums is looking forward to cooperating with the experienced shipbuilders at Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding. We have the full support of our Swedish customer in broadening our customer base to include a new demanding high-end customer.”

Halifax's Irving Shipbuilding to lead $26-billion frigate replacement program

OTTAWA -- Days after signing a contract to build its long-anticipated Arctic patrol ships, the Harper government has quietly indicated it will designate Halifax-based Irving Shipbuilding as the prime contractor on the planned replacement program for the navy's frigates Several defence and government sources say the word came during a closed-door presentation Tuesday to defence contractors looking to bid on the yet-to-be designed $26-billion Canadian Surface Combatant program The ability to designate which company will be the prime contractor was contained in the national



shipbuilding strategy, which designated Irving as the go-to company to construct the navy's future warships. The yard had already been designated as the prime contractor on the Arctic ships, which are not as sophisticated as the surface combatants will need to be. A government source said a contract for Irving to oversee the frigate replacement has yet to be signed and will require the approval of the federal Treasury Board when it is drafted. It's unclear how much the contract will be worth. The Conservatives have said they're interested in building as many as 15 warships, but experts have warned the corrosive effect of delays and inflation means they will likely won't end up with that many. Being designated as prime contractor on the next generation of warships is a powerful position, given the money involved, that allows the company a say in designating sub-contractors, including those doing the design and installation of weapons systems. A leaked Public Works slide presentation also shows it will allow the company to work with the federal government to "reconcile draft requirements" for the warship with the government's proposed budget. Irving -- under the name Saint John Shipbuilding -- was the lead contractor on the construction of the existing frigates in the late 1980s and throughout the 1990s. Other defence contractors, all with much more recent experience in major warship projects, had been quietly vying behind the scenes to take the lead on the Canadian project. The French-shipbuilder DCNS and U.S. defence giant Lockheed Martin were among those interested, although they could now end up as sub-contractors. Phillippe Lagasse, a defence policy expert at the University of Ottawa, said Irving's lack of recent experience in building warships won't be a handicap if the company goes out and hires the proper talent. However, he said the federal government's decision to commit itself to the Irvings in such a way will require very stringent oversight. "I do worry about the federal government's willingness to actually exercise its contractual rights," said Lagasse -- a reference to the delays that plagued the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter contract, delays for which the Harper government was hesitant to punish the manufacturer, Sikorsky. "You just want to get the thing built -- so much so, you're willing to bend. You're stuck with a contractor to a certain degree and you're going to be stuck with Irving for the surface combatants now. "Even if you put in protections and incentives, if it comes to the point that you really need the ships, how much are you willing to compromise to get it done?" Source : atlantic.ctvnews

Naval Ship Repair Yard's 70th Anniv Fete The Naval Ship Repair Yard (NSRY), Kochi, celebrated its 70th anniversary on Wednesday. The month-long

anniversary celebration, marked by various activities focusing on social causes, also came to an end with a colourful cultural programme which was presided by the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, Vice Admiral S P S Cheema and attended by a number of senior officers of the command and the employees of NSRY.

Marking the anniversary, various events were conducted which included an organ donation campaign in association with the Society For Organ Retrieval and Transplant(SORT) wherein 300 employees and their families pledged to donate their organs. Commemorating the milestone, the Postal Department released a

special cover on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, Vice Admiral S P S Cheema, appreciated the efforts put in by all the employees of the yard, and exhorted them to rededicate themselves to ensure ‘quality repair on time’ so as to prepare themselves for the upcoming challenges and imminent growth into a full-fledged Naval Dockyard during the coming years. NSRY, the premier ship repair organisation of the Southern Naval Command, was originally established

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as a modest ‘Base Engineering And Electrical Workshop’, post World War II in 1945, to maintain the sea worthiness of the ships based at Kochi. Source : The new Indian Express

Daewoo Shipbuilding wins $800 mln worth of orders for LNG carriers

Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co., the world's second-biggest shipyard, has signed deals worth a combined $800 million to build four liquefied natural gas carriers, the shipbuilder said Thursday. Under the deals signed Wednesday with Korea Line Corp. and Hyundai LNG Shipping Co., the shipbuilder will deliver the LNG carriers by May 2017, the company said in an e-mailed statement. The latest orders are the first for Daewoo Shipbuilding in 2015.The state-run Korea Gas Corp. had placed orders in October for six LNG carriers to bring in shale gas from the United States. Four of the orders went to the two local shippers. Daewoo Shipbuilding had obtained orders for 37 LNG carriers in 2014. Source : Yonhap

4 crushed to death by falling structure at Busan shipyard

Four workers were crushed to death by a falling structure at a shipyard in this southeastern port city Wednesday, firefighters said The operator’s cabin attached to a 40-ton crane used for shipbuilding broke away around 9:46 a.m., the Busan Fire Department in this southeastern port city said. The cabin fell about 20 meters and rolled over on its side, crushing one person inside and three people who were standing on top of it. Three of them died instantly with the remaining one being trapped under the debris for about two hours. The man was later pronounced dead, firefighters said.The victims were all in their late 50s or early 60s. “I heard a loud bang and turned around to see that the cabin had fallen. I heard screaming and people saying someone had fallen,” one of the workers at the scene said. Police said the victims appeared to have been trying to take the crane apart to free up the

space for other purposes. A total of five workers had been deployed, with four of them tasked with severing the link between the cabin and the crane. The fifth worker had stayed on the ground and survived.“It appears that they were trying to disconnect the cabin without proper safety equipment,” a police officer said.The shipyard is owned by Geochung Shipbuilding Co. It had belonged to Dae Sun Shipbuilding & Engineering Co. until last December. Police said witnesses and construction officials will be called in for questioning to determine whether proper safety procedures had been followed. Source: Yonhap

Hindustan Shipyard and Hyundai sign MoU to build Indian submarines

India-based Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) and South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to construct submarines for India. The agreement includes a 40-year programme that will bolster India's naval forces. A senior HSL official was quoted by the Times of India as saying: "HHI will help us in the building of submarines, as they are the biggest shipyard in the world and have scientific equipment and methodology."The agreement includes a 40-year programme that will bolster India's naval forces." "India offers a huge potential for the South Korean company. India has a 40-year submarine construction programme and Hyundai doesn't have a stronghold in our sub-continent as of now. It's a win-win situation for both HSL and Hyundai." HSL has also formed a consortium with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited and Mishra Dhatu Nigam to bid for the Indian Ministry Of Defence's $9.7bn order for the construction of six submarines, under project 75 (I). Korea Joogang Daily quoted a HHI spokesperson as saying: "Since HSL wants to be a part of the submarine manufacturing project by the navy, they asked us for help."Because they are the largest shipbuilder in their country, the possibility that they will win the order is big."Indian shipbuilder Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd recently launched the navy's third landing craft utility vessel, which is part of an eight-vessel programme for the MkIV project.



Duqm shipyard targets global market after major conversion job

Oman Drydock Company (ODC), which operates the Duqm shipyard in the sultanate, plans to target the global market in a major way following the completion of its first major conversion contract and 300th drydocking.

The $1.5-billion shipyard, which is one of the biggest and best equipped in the world in the world for new build, conversion and repair, was launched in 2011 in Oman's new ports and logistics city of Duqm. The shipyard recently completed the conversion of Greek-owned crude oil carrier Olympic Luck belonging to Springfield Shipping. ODC chairman Dr Abdulmalik Bin Abdullah Al Hinai said the shipyard is developing a formidable reputation for shiprepair and conversion services and is now gearing up to attack the global shipbuilding market. "We are extremely proud to announce the completion of this project which saw the Olympic Luck converted from an Oil Bulk Ore carrier to a Very Large Crude Carrier," said the ODC chairman. "This was the first major conversion job we have undertaken and is a terrific showcase for the world class infrastructure, facilities and workforce we have."The vessel weighs more than 319,000 tonnes and is close to 314 metres in length. More than 1,000 men worked on the job which involved 3,000 tonnes of steelwork and was completed in around 80 days.”

ODC chief executive Yong Duk Park said the conversion was helped enormously by the highly sophisticated expertise of Korean shipbuilding giant DSME which is ODC’s partner. Park said few other shipyards in the region can match the level of conversion and ship building skills at ODC’s disposal because of its partnership with DSME. "We removed bulk head covers and installed new swash bulk heads, making the vessel multi-functional for more efficient loading,” he said. “We used DSME's broad knowledge of precision engineering and design innovation to inform our construction methods. For the Olympic Luck we fabricated close to 40 blocks between 50 and 80 tonnes. This enabled us to build in larger portions, reducing on time and cost.”

Springfield Shipping Company general manager Dimitris Patrikios said ODC's ability to deliver the highly complex conversion project could lead to future work with the yard. “This was a unique project which helped to show the professional expertise of ODC,” he said. “It was the first time ODC has taken on a project of this scale. Our decision to award the contract was based on ODC's promise to complete the project with high quality. Dr Al Hinai said ODC is looking to capitalise on its unique selling points to catapult itself further into the global multi-billion pound ship repair, conversion and build industry.“Our ambition is to be renowned as the best drydock in the Middle East," he said. "ODC, the port of Duqm and the maritime sector, more widely, have fundamental roles to play in Oman’s future economy. We encourage young people in Oman to grasp the glittering opportunities that the maritime sector offers for long term fulfilling careers. It is important emphasise that the maritime industry offers opportunity for people of all academic backgrounds."More specifically ODC’s geographical location in Duqm thrusts it into pole position for the Asia to Europe shipping route as well as the East African and Indian off shore industries. Duqm’s location means vessels do not have to greatly deviate their course helping to slash costs and the time required for drydocking. This can save days in time, and a huge amount of money, which is such a key factor for shipping operators balancing tight budgets," he said.

"ODC has a number of very strong unique selling points that give us a competitive edge. Our dry docks can accommodate any size of vessel. The shipyard has one of the longest docks in the Middle East at 2.8 km. If desired we still have the space and planning permission to double in size," said Dr Al Hinai. "Furthermore ODC has unrivalled painting services and the ability to deal with sludge and slops disposal. Our climate provides a perfect environment for painting that few other yards can offer. The slops and sludge terminal has a capacity of 10,000 cu m which is the largest in the Middle East. We can save up to three days sailing time as we can deal with it all here on site, there is no need to sail to another location,” he added.ODC has carried out work on a wide variety of ships from VLCCs to container ships, LNG and LPG carrriers to chemical carriers, dredgers, RO-ROs and barges. ODC forms a centre piece of His Majesty the Sultan’s ambitious 10-year $15-billion masterplan to transform the town of Duqm into ‘an economic powerhouse’. Source : TradeArabia News Service

Court to auction off four Rushan Shipbuilding vessels

Dalian: Qingdao Maritime Court announced that it will auction four chemical tankers at Shandong Rushan Shipbuilding on January 28, under the request of Agricultural Bank Of China in a loan dispute. One 21,000dwt tanker and one 15,900dwt tanker were ordered by Italian owner Marnavi, and two 6,500dwt tankers were ordered by Danish company



Erria in 2007.The vessels were abandoned by the owners due to delayed delivery and have been controlled by the bank in a loan dispute with the shipyard. The four vessels are set to be delivered in 2015. Source : Sinoshipnews

ROUTE, PORTS & SERVICES

The UOS PATHFINDER arriving in Willemstad (Curacao) bound fror the Curacao Droogdok Maatschappij Photo : Kees Bustraan – http://community.webshots.com/user/cornelis224 (c)

Bourbon Offshore expands business foothold

Bourbon Offshore Ltd., a leading French offshore major, has expanded the business foothold with two strategic partnerships. The company has bought a 20.5 pc stake from Garware companies, which mainly consist of Garware Marine having 6.5 pc stake. The company has also entered into a share purchase agreement with India Star Ltd., a US based PE having 29.6 pc stake in Global Offshore Ltd. The deal is sensed to be finalized at around Rs 270 Cr. to Garware Marine, for its 6.5 stake in Global Offshore Ltd.. The source further added that Ravi Pratap Singh, CEO of India Star was in France in the first week of JAN to give the final shape to the transaction. "The legal advisors from London and investment bankers M/s Clarksons were not available for comments but according to the source close to the transaction said that the deal is happening at 700 mn USD. In Rupee term, the open offer could come at Rs 1420 per share. The source further added that initially the deal was supposed to be finalized in November but the deal got delayed due to the pending SEBI case against INDIA STAR, which got a clear chit in November. SEBI in their order clearly held that Mr. R P Singh is not liable for disclosures issues in the open offer made in 2008 at Rs 230 per share. Even the merchant banker HSBC was just reprimanded without any cause of action," read an official statement. December is the month of holiday in Europe and US, hence the ball started rolling early in January this year. A source also says Bourbon has been advised to take FIBP approval first before signing SPA due to uncertainty regime of Indian regulators.FIBP is likely to meet in last week of JAN and hence the deal will go through in February. The share price of Global Offshore is trailing at life time high and closed at Rs 776 (market cap of Rs 18700 mn) Source : newkerala

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MPI WTIVs continue work on E.On’s Amrumbank supported by new MPI

Offshore Tees Base MPI Offshore’s wind-turbine-installation vessels are enjoying a positive start to 2015, supported by the newly acquired Tees Base. MPI ADVENTURE recently completed her mobilisation and left the Tees Base earlier this week. She is now in Esjberg for loading of the Siemens 3.6MW WTGs for the first installations in the next stage of the E.On Journey – the Amrumbank Turbine

installations. Preparation work for this WTG installation campaign was undertaken at the modern MPI Offshore Tees Base, a facility that MPI has now taken over permanent residency of. The complete process of sea-fastening design, subsequent local construction and installation on board the WTIV was managed from Tees Base by a dedicated project management team, working in close cooperation with E.On. The Tees Base provides MPI Offshore’s expanding fleet with quay frontage for project mobilisation/demobilisation, plus

warehousing space for specialist equipment and customer components. The quayside and frontage have access to hard-standing and lay-down areas suitable for offshore wind components.We look forward to increasing MPI Offshore’s presence at the Tees Base in the months to come. Since September 2014, sister vessel MPI Discovery has been installing monopiles and TPs on the Amrumbank site, with the work being carried out by MPI’s own installation and heavy-lift crews. Co-ordinated management of construction crews on board MPI Discovery has guaranteed effective use of the integrated gripper assembly and the vessel’s SPMT multi-wheel trailers, whilst simultaneously deploying NMD (noise-mitigation devices) to comply with noise restrictions for piling offshore. This has ensured effective progress throughout the winter months. MPI DISCOVERY is scheduled to complete the foundation phase of the project this Spring. The vessel will then return to Tees Base for demobilisation or - with her spread of installation tools and equipment - to be made available for other offshore installations through 2015.

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21st of January after glorious completion of trenching & backfilling works in Ajman the Mv “SWORDFISH ANN built 1969” and the mighty BHD “GOODWIN SAND , built 1977” cast off from Sharjah Al-Hamriyah Port, UAE with destination Boskalis jetty in RAKMC. Photo : Christian Niemeyer ©

260’ Former Google Barge Purchased After concluding two 3,500HP tug sales on 30th December, Marcon International Inc. is pleased to start off the New Year already with three ocean barge sales. We hope to report on several additional sales before the end of this month. Five 4,500 – 6,000HP tugs, one 5,150BHP AHTS and two 3,200 – 5,500dwt ocean barges continue to be fixed on previously arranged long-term charters.

The most recent transaction is the purchase by private U.S. West Coast Buyers of the former “Google” barge “JMC 262” (ex-BAL0001, CIB 721) from Cashman Equipment Corp. The 260’ x 72’ x 16’ ocean deck barge was built in 2010 by C & C Marine & Repair of Belle Chasse, Louisiana and best known as one of the four proposed four-story “mystery” barges owned by By and Large LLC, a company affiliated with Google. The barges were reportedly being outfitted as floating “studios” and “temporary technology exhibit spaces” providing an interactive experience where people could learn about the tech company’s newest technology and products. After various questions arose regarding building permits and U.S. Coast Guard safety concerns, the project was put on hold and conversion halted.

The double-raked, ABS +A1 Ocean Deck barge can carry abt. 5,107 long tons on a 12.58’ draft and has a 9/16” plate deck with a uniform deck load of 5,000PSF. The ½” plate hull is divided by six transverse watertight, two longitudinal watertight and one centerline mid-body non-watertight bulkheads forming 15 epoxy coated watertight compartments. Marcon International acted as sole broker in the sale. In 2014 Marcon brokered six ocean and inland deck barges totaling 25,658dwt capacity. Over the past 34 years Marcon International has sold or chartered a 216 ocean and inland deck barges with an aggregate deadweight capacity of over 1 million tons.

Zim axes Asia-northern Europe container shipping route

Tel Aviv: Israeli container carrier Zim Integrated Shipping has terminated its monthly ad-hoc sailings between Asia and northern Europe, according to a report from Alphaliner. Zim has been operating a semi-regular service on the route every four to six weeks since June 2014 with ships of between 4,600 and 10,000 teu. Sustained losses on the competitive route forced Zim to cancel its liner service last April and terminate its slot charter arrangement with CSCL.



Instead, Zim has deployed its ships on the Asia-US East Coast trade, Alphaliner says, where spot rates have reportedly surged in response to a shortage of slots. Source : gulfshipnews

Government and bosses praise Hoegh Osaka recovery

The HOEGH OSAKA towed by the tugs MULTRATTUG 4, THORAX and VORTEX into the Southampton Docks.

Photo : Jack Gaston ©

The Government and shipping bosses have tonight praised those who have worked on recovering a stranded ship in Southampton water. It comes as the HOEGH OAKA car transporter will be handed over to its grateful owners after successfully berthing in Southampton. Teams from salvage firm Svitzer are preparing to hand over the 51,000 tonne vessel to owners Hoegh after it docked at berth 101 in the port at 6.15pm tonight. Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin congratulated the team who oversaw the operation.

He said: “I congratulate all those who have worked tirelessly day and night to bring this ship back to port. I would like to pay particular tribute to Hugh Shaw who oversaw the operation, with the help of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, salvage operators, and the pilots and tugs of the port of Southampton. "They battled exceptionally difficult weather conditions with extraordinary dedication and courage. A full investigation into how the incident occurred is ongoing.” And the man in charge of the mammoth operation, which is one of the biggest ever held in the region, echoed his praise and thanked salvors for their “exceptional” work in bringing the ship in and avoiding disaster.

The Secretary of State’s representative for maritime salvage and intervention Hugh Shaw said that crucial work carried out by crews aboard the ship last night was key in meeting the vital weather window this afternoon. He said: “This operation has been a real team effort. Working on a vessel listing at over 50 degrees is very difficult and without their expertise we wouldn’t have been able to deal with it."They have been instrumental in getting safe access and a working platform for the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) to carry out investigations. I would like to thank everyone for their commitment.” Svitzer salvage master Bram Sperling said: “We experienced challenges and difficulties in working conditions but people worked hard and managed to control the situation and get the best procedure.”

He thanked teams who worked overnight on the vessel with very few facilities in preparing it for the move today. He said that the teams were very tired but had a chance to celebrate tonight: “We will have a beer but we need to be in port again at 7am.” Hoegh head of short sea and logistics Øyvind Ervik said the firm is “extremely grateful that the vessel is now moored." He said: “we thank everybody involved and we are impressed with the skill of all those



involved. They had spent a short amount of time this evening looking at the vehicles but Øyvind said it was too early to tell what condition they were in.

Øyvind said: “We need to handle the vehicles and get them off the ship and not add insult to injury, then there will be a proper survey to see if the cars can be refitted or whether they will be sold as they are. There was just a small window of time today when tidal and wind conditions were considered safe enough to raise the ship’s anchor and toe it into Southampton port using four tugs. Owners Hoegh will begin assessing the cargo which is still onboard and discussing what repairs are needed on the ship to see if it can be brought back into service. The HOEGH OAKA's arrival back in port marked the end of a huge operation that lasted almost three weeks.

The 51,000-tonne Singapore-registered vessel, which was carrying a cargo of 1,400 cars and 105 pieces of construction equipment, was beached deliberately on Bramble Bank sandbank, near Southampton, on January 3 after it began listing as it left the Hampshire port. It floated free from the sandbank on the high tide on January 7 and has since been anchored at a spot two miles (3.2km) east called Alpha Anchorage, near Lee-on-the-Solent.

The operation to salvage the 15-year-old ship has been hampered by heavy winds, which even caused one of the tugs to collide with the vessel during one of the storms. It was only on completion of the water pumping that salvage firm Svitzer was able to complete ballast management and bring the vessel back to a list of only five degrees. The 591ft (180m) ship listed at 52 degrees as it became stranded on the sandbank. The condition of the cargo, which includes 1,200 Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles, 65 Mini cars and 105 pieces of JCB construction equipment, is not clear but further inspections are due once the ship has berthed. Source : Dailyecho

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Global economy’s growth prospects appear challenging in 2015, in what could dent

demand for shipping Demand for the shipping industry comes from a booming global economy and trade. As such, any dent placed in the world economy’s growth prospects is, in essence, potentially curbing shipping prospects as well. In its latest note, shipbroker Intermodal mentioned that “the World Bank has lowered its forecast for global growth in 2015 to 3% down from its previous level of 3.4% amid rising concerns over the economic prospects of several economies. The traditional engines of global economic growth with the exception of the United States and the United Kingdom seem to be running out of steam while at the same time a number of emerging economies are also entering troubled waters”. Intermodal’s Research Analyst, Mr. Vassilis Logothetis noted that “the Eurozone economies are suffering from anaemic growth rates, low inflation and a prolonged inability to coordinate their policies in order to overcome their current predicament. Similarly the Japanese economy is also suffering despite the extended monetary stimulus implemented by the Bank of Japan. Among the emerging economies, Russia and Brazil have seen their economies stall as they are affected, among other factors, by falling commodity prices. The latter are expected to remain soft in the years to come, significantly hitting those economies that depend heavily on natural resources. Besides the much talked fall in oil prices, iron ore and coal prices have also seen significant decreases during the last months”. According to Mr. Logothetis, “among the key factors for this drop is China’s slowing economy. Although the latter is still growing, it has entered a path of gradual deceleration that already affects the world trade. The latter is expected to remain week during 2015 far away from its pre-crisis levels”. As he noted “at the shipping industry we have already seen the implication of this deceleration especially in the dry sector. The current adverse situation is reflected in the BCI index where we are reaching historical lows almost on a daily basis. During the last weeks the index has lost significant ground and the prospects remain dim as further drops in China’s GDP growth rate are expected to have additional negative implication for the world economy both for


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developed and developing economies”. He added that “although the world outlook for 2015 does not look so good, pessimism should not dominate the market sentiment. We have entered a point in time where the much anticipated policy actions by governments and central banks to support economic activity are ante portas and the results can be nothing but positive. The ECB is anticipated to expand its balance sheet with purchases of sovereign bonds to support Eurozone economies and the economies of the United States and United Kingdom are expected to remain on the positive path. China has already adopted measures to avoid financial distress and a number of other policy instruments are available to support its economy. In addition, low oil prices are expected to boost economic activity helping several emerging economies to improve their output outlook. Among them, India, which according to the World Bank is expected to overtake China as the world’s fastest growing big economy within the next two years, has seen its coal imports rise significantly since last year as the country tries to meet its growing power demand. To sum up, despite the current difficulties that the world economy faces, a closer look suggests that there is room for significant improvement during 2015″, Logothetis concluded. Meanwhile, in the newbuilding market this week, Intermodal said that “despite the fact that we have now entered 2015, it seems that time has stopped in the newbuilding front, with both prices and activity offering no excitement or signs that the market is due to see witness a substantial improvement anytime soon. The notable lack of dry bulker and tanker orders is still setting the tone here, while as we get closer to the Chinese New Year we expect things to slow down further as far as dry bulk orders are concerned. Even in the tanker sector where fundamentals are currently way more positive, we observe that those who are ready to invest continue to “snob” newbuildings and chose to go for secondhand tonnage, while the unusual spark in container orders that was reported last week was in its bigger part against specific tenders and not representative of an ordering spree in the sector. In terms of recently reported deals, Greek owner Kyklades Maritime, has placed an order, for three firm and three optional Suezmax tankers (158,000dwt) at Sungdong, in S. Korea, for a price of $ 65.0m each, which is in line with the market and delivery set during 2016 and 2017″. Source : Nikos Roussanoglou, Hellenic Shipping News Worldwide

The SPIRIT OF SINGAPORE IMO 9362396, 2008/41483gt in to Melbourne off Portsea, 19-1-2015

Photo : Andrew Mackinnon – www.aquamanships.com ©

Petrobras plans $3.9 billion asset writedown for third quarter - Globo

Brazilian state-run oil company Petrobras will take a charge of about 10 billion reais ($3.9 billion) in its delayed third-quarter results to write down overvalued assets, the O Globo newspaper reported on Thursday, citing an unnamed government source. Petroleo Brasileiro SA, as Petrobras is formally known, also plans to cut investment by 30 percent as part of a plan to preserve cash as a contract-fixing, bribery and political kickback scandal cuts it out of financial markets and falling oil prices crimp revenue, the paper said. Petrobras had committed itself to investing an average of $44 billion a year under its $221 billion investment plan for 2014-2018 announced last year, but it warned in December that it would cut spending.

The company will write down the value of five refineries and two natural gas pipelines, the paper said. Petrobras did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the story. The results, originally scheduled for release in November, were delayed after a probe of corruption at Petrobras led auditor PricewaterhouseCoopers to refuse to certify the company's accounts. The company's board will meet on Jan. 27 to discuss and approve third-quarter financial data, Globo said. Police, prosecutors and suspects arrested in the case said Petrobras executives conspired

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with construction and engineering companies to inflate the value of contracts for refineries, ships and other goods and services. They said some of the excess charges were then kicked back to executives, politicians and political parties as bribes and campaign contributions. Reuters reported on Jan. 6 that Petrobras' third-quarter results were likely to reflect the full amount of write-downs from the scandal.About 40 have been arrested in the case, including three former Petrobras senior executives and senior executives of some of Brazil's largest construction and engineering companies. Source : Reuters

MARITIME ARTIST CORNER

The latest work of maritime artist Nico M. Peeters “Oilpainting of the landing of herring in Lowestoft” This canvas was a commission from a former herring trader and has been painted after an old sepia photograph from

(estimated) between 1912 – 1914. It took a lot of research to find out about colours and history, etc. The size is 120 x 100 cm.” See more work of Nico at www.nicompeeters.nl

Click HERE for the LIVE STREAM WEBCAM in Hoek van Holland

Berghaven

…. PHOTO OF THE DAY …..

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The FAR SEA anchor handling for the OCEAN WORKER off Macae which rig the TERASEA FALCON is towing to Gulf of Mexico Photo : Capt : Neil Johnston - master TERASEA FALCON ©

photo : piet sinke © click on the photo and/or hyperlink...

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