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Felixstowe Wins RFG Awards P4 // of passes 70m TEU milestone P5 // BG Freight launches new Thamesport Service p6 // Felixstowe offers cheaper gateway into UK says study p6 // FCPS Expands Services p7 // Sloman Neptun Celebrates 10 Years at p7 // short but sweet p8 - 11 // Keeping it deep p12 - 15 // Towing the line p16 - 17 // secretary of state p18 - 19 // always looking ahead p20 - 21 // neil glendinning p22 - 23 SHIP2SHORE #14

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Bg FREIgHt laUnCHES nEw lOndOn FElIxStOwE OFFERS CHEaPER gatEway Felixstowe has a further advantage, mDS tHamESPORt SERvICE IntO UK SayS StUdy said, in that it can offer economies of scale for onward transport by rail. The port has 30 B.g. Freight Line B.V. has launched a new service A new study undertaken by specialist different rail services each day to a total of 17 providing an additional weekly feeder link between consultants mDS Transmodal has confirmed inland destinations. London Thamesport and Rotterdam. that Felixstowe continues to offer the cheapest gateway in the South East of the UK. Taken together, the consultants calculated The new service provided by the 800 TEU that inland transport costs from Felixstowe per containerships Doris Schepers & Jork Ruler calls at The consultants found that “considering both one-way container were £312 versus £321 via London Thamesport each Friday. inland and maritime costs together, Felixstowe London gateway and £322 via Southampton. has an overall cost advantage of £26 per Commenting on the commencement of the service, container”. To that £9 differential, the consultants added Andrew Harston, Chief Operating Officer of Harwich another £17 for the “diversion costs” to London FCPS ExPandS SERvICES LAtESt International Port and London Thamesport, said: The consultants said “the inland distribution gateway from the key Benelux shipping lanes of import cargoes is based upon the location — an extra 76 miles. Felixstowe Port Container Services (FPCS) have “London Thamesport specialises in offering its of large warehouses and not population”, with diversified into bespoke container conversions, customers a highly efficient tailor-made service and most of the big warehouses located in the Basing calculations on a 10,000TEU mega- demonstrating that the versatility of the steel we look forward to working with Bg Freight line. midlands or the north. London and the South ship unloading 2,200 boxes at a UK port, the shipping container knows no bounds. FPCS are taking The introduction of their new service complements East have only 11pc of such warehouses, consultants said such diversion costs were a advantage of the growing market by converting the range of deep-sea and short-sea connections despite accounting for 30pc of the population. key factor because “without exception, deep- containers into anything from basic storage to hot we already provide at the port offering a greater sea ships serving the UK also call at a Benelux shower blocks and changing rooms. range of options to importers and exporters.” “London is itself effectively served via port”. Among the many uses of containers are as offices, warehouses that themselves can lie up to storage units, garages, laboratories, sheds, café/ dEVELOP- London Thamesport is one of the UK’s leading 200km north of the capital” mDS found, adding In terms of maritime access, the consultants restaurants, site offices, club houses, canteens, deep-sea and short-sea container . Situated that some alternatives on the Thames faced said: “We estimate that Felixstowe offers a shower blocks, changing rooms, workshops, just 35 miles from London, it boasts a depth of 15 extra costs from road congestion around the £17 advantage per container handled over conference rooms, classrooms, stables and exhibition metres of water alongside, and the 655 metres of capital. London gateway and a £7 advantage over stands. quay provides 2 operational berths equipped with 8 Southampton.” ship-to-shore gantry cranes, allowing high intensity The skilled, on-site, fabrication team, supported by operations and excellent operational performance. contract tradesmen, work closely with customers to deliver unique container conversions from initial design conception, through to completion of the unit. MEntS Depot manager Barry Capon said: “From only a few dozen simple conversions in 2012, this sector of our business has grown significantly PORt OF FElIxStOwE PaSSES 70m tEU Right Honourable Patrick mcLoughlin, celebrating rich maritime history, supported by key financial throughout 2013. With enquiries coming in daily, by FElIxStOwE wInS RaIl FREIgHt awaRd ambition the port has for rail, and the innovative The level of rail traffic being moved through mIlEStOnE this achievement with us today. services and a productive partnership between the end of this year we expect to have carried out solutions we have introduced to ensure that Felixstowe means that over 50% of containers government and industry, has helped make over 200 successful conversions.” The Port of Felixstowe has won again at the Rail Felixstowe stays well ahead of the game. We moving to the West midlands and north-West The Port of Felixstowe has passed another “Our continued commitment to investment has shipping a real success story for Britain – the

Freight group’s annual award ceremony. The port, offer our customers a frequency of service and now go by rail, saving millions of tonnes of CO2 milestone with the handling of the 70th million ensured that we have the capacity to support volume of goods coming through UK ports has In addition, FPCS also provide facilities for container which has twice been named Rail Business of a range of destinations that are not available every year. TEU since container operations began at the port the economic growth of this country, and the tripled in the past ten years. and reefer damage inspection and repair; application the Year, was recognised for its new north Rail anywhere else.” in the mid-1960s. equipment and operational excellence to provide of anti-condensation coatings; re-sprays and decal Terminal. our customers with a fast and efficient service.” “It is fitting for Felixstowe to reach this landmark renewal/replacement; empty container storage; The landmark container was loaded aboard the in the run up to London International Shipping document storage; as well as reefer monitoring and SlOman nEPtUn CElEBRatES 10 yEaRS at Speaking after the presentation, Andrew Harston, The new terminal is equipped with a Traverser, 13,800-TEU mSC Bettina by the Rt Hon Patrick Transport Secretary Patrick mcLoughlin said: Week, when the shipping world’s attention will pre trip inspections. HaRwICH Chief Operating Officer of Harwich International the only one of its type at an intermodal terminal mcLoughlin mP, UK Secretary of State for be focused on us. Shipping is an engine for Port, said: in the UK, which shunts locomotives sideways Transport, driving a huge container crane under “I’m proud to help celebrate this milestone growth and we want to ensure the UK builds on For more information and a quotation please contact A ceremony has been held to mark the tenth between tracks to allow them to exit the terminal the guidance of one of the port’s crane driving for the port – 70 million containers is a truly its position as a global leader.” Depot manager Barry Capon at FPCS on 01394 anniversary of the commencement of services by “We are delighted to mark this important after pulling in a full train. The initiative to instructors. staggering amount and is a testament to the 602741. E-mail – [email protected] Sloman neptun Shipping & Transport gmbH from anniversary of the relationship between Sloman design and fit the traverser won the Technical important role Felixstowe continues to play in As a critical piece of national infrastructure, the Harwich International Port. neptun and Harwich International Port. Both Development of the Year award. The north Rail Commenting on the port’s achievement, driving growth. Port of Felixstowe has a key role to play as the UK are multi-purpose operators catering to a wide Terminal itself was runner-up in the Project of the Clemence Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of moves towards economic recovery. Whilst at the The Bremen-based company first called at the port variety of cargo types and both are committed to Year category. Hutchison Ports (UK) Limited, owners of the Port “Shipping and maritime are big business for the port the Secretary of State met with key players in on the 18 August 2003 with a call by the 8,000-ton providing their mutual customers with the highest of Felixstowe, said: UK – the sector is already worth up to £14bn per the logistics industry and users of the port to get a Sloman Trader. Sloman continues to offer regular levels of service and cargo care that is second- Commenting after collecting the awards, Andrew year to the economy and, most importantly, it is first-hand understanding of how important the Port sailings from the Essex-port with four modern to-none.” Harston, Port Development Director, said: “Passing this latest milestone underlines the Port steadily growing. of Felixstowe is in facilitating UK trade with the multi-purpose vessels to ports in morocco, Tunisia, of Felixstowe’s position as the Port of Britain rest of the world. (see page 18-19) Algeria and Libya. In addition to serving north Africa, Sloman vessels “The new north Rail Terminal is the first terminal and highlights its long record of achievement. “The greenwich meridian makes us, quite call at Leixoes in Portugal and Cartagena in Spain of its type designed for trains of over 30 wagons Felixstowe has been the UK’s leading container literally, the centre of the shipping world and The Port of Felixstowe handled a record 3.7 To mark the event, Captain Victor Kolomarenko, en route which provides the opportunity for UK in length. It will double rail capacity at the port port for over 30 years and we have the pleasure our central time zone means we can do business million TEU in 2012, over 40% of all containers master of the Sloman Producer, was presented shippers to load cargo north- or south-bound to and the awards recognise both the scale of the of having the Secretary of State for Transport, the with both sides of the world in one day. Our moved through UK ports. with a framed photograph of the vessel at the port. Spain and Portugal. NEWS P4-7 // 4 // // 5 // // 6 // // 7 //

SHIP2SHORE #14 SHIP2SHORE #14 SHIP2SHORE #14 SHIP2SHORE #14 What’s important is our ability to turn round vessels very SHORt quickly.”

“The net result is that for a 10,000 teu has to be balanced with our exposure to the container ship exchanging 2,200 containers at weather,” says Paul Wallace. “But in fact, the a UK port, we estimate that Felixstowe offers port is rarely closed for wind and if we do get but a £17 advantage per container handled over into any kind of weather delay, we can depend London gateway, and a £7 advantage over on the speed and commitment of our workforce Southampton.” to get back on schedule. We have disconnected our yard operations from our quayside Considering both inland and maritime costs operations to ensure no knock-on delays. It’s fair together, the Port of Felixstowe has an overall to say that all ports, because of their proximity cost advantage of £25 per container, compared to the sea, are subject to weather issues at to London gateway, says mDS. And even if a some point. What’s important is our ability to shipping line were to offer a shipper the same turn round vessels very quickly.” quay-to-quay rate, the shipper should still make a SwEEt saving of £8 per container on inland costs, it adds. tHE Inland FaCtORS The inland distribution of import cargoes is THE mARITImE ADVAnTAgE “An overriding priority for the major container based upon the location of large warehouses shipping lines is that they don’t want to be and not population, mDS emphasises. The great unnecessarily diverted,” says Paul Wallace, majority of import containers are destined for Hutchison Ports UK commercial director. national distribution centres generally located “Felixstowe’s huge advantage is its proximity in the midlands and the north. to the international shipping lanes, and that is even more the case with ever-increasing bunker “Felixstowe’s location of being some 100 kms ard facts and real figures Felixstowe offers users a mean cost advantage has just arrived at the Sunk pilot station out prices. The last thing shipping lines want to do from the m25 is not a handicap because London – difficult to argue of £25 per container per direction relative to in the – this is where the deepsea is add extra costs by adding longer steaming is itself effectively served via warehouses that with. And in a major London gateway, rising marginally if fuel prices pilot climbs aboard, ready to guide your vessel distances, higher pilotage charges and higher themselves can lie up to 200 kms north of the cost analysis study by increase,” says mDS Transmodal. to its designated berth. From the ship’s bridge conservancy costs. capital.” leading consultants mDS you can actually see Felixstowe’s ship-to-shore Transmodal, the conclusion And it concludes: “In so far as maritime cranes. At this point, you can take advantage “Vessels want to get in and out of port as Added to that is Felixstowe’s unrivalled strength is clear. Felixstowe offers access costs are concerned, Felixstowe has a of Felixstowe’s short approach channel and get quickly as possible. Any way that they can in terms of rail facilities and connections – the lowest cost gateway significant advantage.” quickly to your berth – or you can add another reduce their time in port and get on with their currently the port is served by 30 trains in and solution of all the south- 76 miles of steaming (and 76 miles of pilotage), journey at sea is a way of increasing efficiency 30 trains out, every day. That scale is important, east UK container ports, The facts speak for themselves. Deepsea if you were to choose London gateway instead. and saving money. It doesn’t make sense to offering choice and cost-effectiveness. for imports and shipping lines. Felixstowe, container ships serving the UK also call at key add an extra six hour round-trip when you don’t Hwithout question, has the marine advantage. mainland European hubs – including, without How does that translate into real costs? The need to.” Road congestion is another issue; the mDS exception, a Benelux port. These ships are on report compares the marine costs of using says a detailed survey of more than 1,000 road This is a report with real attention to detail. tight schedules and looking for the minimum Felixstowe, Southampton and London gateway. The Port of Felixstowe has focused strongly on haulage trips showed that congestion and other Both marine side and land side costs were deviation from their route – time is money and Ship’s dues (conservancy and navigation) and productivity and performance to ensure that factors adds half an hour to the journey time rigorously calculated, analysed and compared, so, of course, is any additional fuel burned. also pilotage charges in the Solent or the Thames once vessels are berthed, they are unloaded, of containers from the lower Thames than from and the results confirm the unbeatable are much higher than in the Haven to reach loaded and sent on their way again as quickly Felixstowe. And with quantity comes even more advantage of Felixstowe’s location. Felixstowe, by far the largest UK container port, is Felixstowe, it says. There are further potential as technical and safety considerations allow. choice, with Felixstowe offering a higher chance also the closest port to the main shipping lanes. delays in reaching London gateway because of of a container being back-loaded, because The figures? “Taking into account all inland and tidal restrictions or the risk of missing a tide. “There’s a popular belief that our position of a high number of potential export loads – maritime costs, we estimate that the Port of Imagine you are on a huge container ship that nearest to the international shipping lanes reducing haulage costs even further. MAIN FEATURE P8 // 8 // // 9 // // 10 // // 11 //

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as much as three million cubic metres of silt a disposal ground. The volume dredged each year. This work is carried out by a joint venture year is usually around 2.5 million cubic metres, “wE wORK between two major dredging companies – and there are usually four or five campaigns Boskalis Westminster and Van Oord UK – in a throughout the year. StRatEgICally contract that has been running since January 2009. Each campaign takes approximately three wItH PaRtnERS weeks, with a trailing suction hopper dredger The Authority’s harbour engineer, John Brien, (TSHD) of around 10,000 cubic metres capacity tO dElIvER is responsible for ensuring that these dredging on site for a significant period. Put simply, operations are carefully planned and managed a TSHD pumps up soft mud from the seabed tHE CRItICal throughout the year, as efficiently and cost- through a suction pipe, then carries the load effectively as possible. out to sea for disposal. A plough vessel is InFRaStRUCtURE” used to bring material from the berth faces to a KEEPIng There are two distinct sides to the programme. location that can be accessed by the TSHD and to assist in maintaining Harwich International, First there are the major works, which involve Harwich navyard, mistley and other port dredging in the approaches and berth pockets channels and jetties. The trailer dredgers are to Felixstowe and Harwich, and disposal of also occasionally deployed in the outer sections It dEEP the dredged material at the Inner gabbard of the approach channel. mAInTAInIng nAVIgATIOn CHAnnELS

roviding the vessel traffic infrastructure? Airport runways tend to stay chief executive, Stephen Bracewell. “We work services (VTS) function in a where you put them. marine access channels strategically with partners to deliver the critical Second, there are the minor works – the the harbour, this must also be balanced with busy harbour has been likened have a habit of shifting, thanks to day-to-day infrastructure – the marine access – just as Beneficial Sediment Replacement Scheme defending the unique environment, wildlife and Felixstowe to running air traffic control siltation, storms and tides, amongst other others plan for road or rail maintenance.” designed to feed mobile sediments back into habitats of the Stour and Orwell estuary. The operations at a busy airport – factors. the estuary and rivers to maintain the natural entire dredging programme is subject to some is one of but with massive tidal changes It is Harwich Haven Authority’s responsibility ecological balance. The material is generally very tight restrictions and monitoring in order to and currents thrown in, just to “The deepwater channel we maintain is like to keep the channels and berths within its dredged from the Felixstowe berths and achieve this. the busiest and most add a bit of interest. the runway and approaches for the ports – the jurisdiction clear for commercial traffic. To approaches, for disposal at two locations on the big difference is that our ‘runway’ is moving achieve this, regular maintenance dredging is River Stour and two on the River Orwell. How, where and when the dredged material challenging ports in But what about the all the time,” says Harwich Haven Authority’s required, and that involves removing can be disposed of is controlled and licensed by In a very strictly timed and monitored programme, the marine management Organisation. One of which to operate in P the works are carried out using a shallow draft the conditions is to ensure that all reasonable THSD over the winter period (november to April), precautions are taken to prevent the disposal of the UK” to minimise any disturbance to wildlife. manmade debris at sea. The Authority carries out a wide range of environmental monitoring to operate all over the world with extensive In another facet of the works, WID – water assess any impacts on the habitats and species fleets of vessels which are highly flexible and injection dredging – is used in restricted, shallow in the estuaries and this monitoring is reported to versatile – and this wide-ranging experience areas, where space is tight and there’s a need to a group of regulators and advisors every year. is shared and implemented in Felixstowe and dredge close to structures. Harwich. It probably goes without saying that effective Surveying during the dredging campaigns is a coordination is at the heart of the entire dredging “Felixstowe is one of the busiest and most very intensive exercise, say the joint venture programme. The dredging operators have daily challenging ports in which to operate in the partners. The main dredge area, stretching over contact with Harwich Haven Authority, to ensure UK,” they say. “When carrying out operations about 1.5 million square metres, is surveyed the smooth execution of the works. They must in the port and channel, the captains and every day. The survey information, including that also coordinate with the ports and other shipping crew need to maintain full concentration of adjacent areas, is updated and supplied to activities in the channel, to ensure safe working during the dredging whilst navigating around the dredger, plough vessel and harbour engineer practices while also being able to access the commercial traffic and pleasure crafts. The every afternoon. areas of the port and channel that it needs to JV is continuously investing and developing dredge, to avoid delays to the programme. new methods and technology, which in turn While it’s vital to maintain the required increases the efficiency and effectiveness of depths for the commercial shipping accessing Boskalis Westminster and Van Oord both the operations.” FEATURE 2 P12 // 12 // // 13 // // 14 // // 15 //

SHIP2SHORE #14 SHIP2SHORE #14 SHIP2SHORE #14 SHIP2SHORE #14 tOwIng SEcREtARy tHE LInE Of StAtE TUgS AnD TECHnOLOgY ROUnD TABLE

hen did you last “We operate with three-man crews on our tugs he Secretary of State for route. Work has been identified as part of the really notice a – a master, mate and chief engineer. A lot of our It’s the old Transport, the Rt Hon Patrick rail planning process and it is important that tug? Perhaps mates are qualified to take over from the master. mcLoughlin mP, visited government delivers on these schemes. Future “I HOPE HE FOUnd when it was The crew do a week on / week off rotation and story of Felixstowe recently to mark the electrification was seen as a priority. involved in we have flexibility built in; if we have gone 70 millionth TEU handled at the • Both train operators and retailers would tHE ExCHangE OF some sort of to the maximum hours per crew, we need to going about your daily UK’s leading container port (see like a longer regime for the revenue support celebration, be able to call in others on duty. All crew are page 5). Whilst there, he took grants scheme than the current three year vIEwS HElPFUl” taking centre trained to work on all four tugs. Even though two business unnoticed” the opportunity to meet with period to help business planning. Seven stage to spray of the tugs are identical sister boats, they still a number of logistics industry years was proposed as a more realistic water fountains have their own quirks – so all crew must have leaders at an event hosted by timeframe. • The industry is looking at ways to while fireworks went off behind? Well, it’s only familiarisation throughout the fleet, so they can between crews. The actual manoeuvres they Hutchison Ports. • The proposals to tackle the bottleneck on the decarbonise the supply chain. Any Wright that our tugs and their crew catch the limelight jump in and get to work straight away.” carry out are pretty much the same whatever Often, new recruits have previously worked on T A14 at Cambridge were warmly welcomed assurances on the tax position of alternative sometimes. most of the time, they are distinctly the vessel size – what’s important is excellent fishing vessels, wind farm support boats and Senior executives from shipping lines, haulage but there is concern about the impact of the fuels, or even government support for the in the background, eclipsed by the enormous ships The Felixstowe fleet comprises three tugs built communication with all those involved. other smaller vessels. “We train them onboard companies, train operators, retailers and port proposed tolls on the freight industry. adoption of low-emission fuels, would be they guide to and from their berths. by Damen Shipyards and one built at Kangawa and at college. They have to complete a lot users met with the minister to discuss their • The proposals by Defra to designate certain very helpful. Dockyard in Japan. ‘Dynamic berthing’ means “It is a case of liaising with the pilot on board and of sea time and achieve their qualifications transport policy priorities and to give him direct areas as marine Conservation Zones are • The shipping industry is still affected by “It’s the old story of going about your daily business the tugs push and pull together, an operation discussing the power needed and the number of under the international Standards of Training, feedback from the freight operators’ perspective. causing some uncertainty. There are areas the imposition of Light Dues in UK ports. unnoticed,” says Kevin Boyd, managing director that requires expert handling and coordination tugs,” says Kevin. “We are there to optimise the Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). All that already benefit from a very high degree of Comparable charges are not paid at South East UK for Svitzer Europe. “Quite a lot of the vessel’s turnround. The faster the ships can get in training must be signed off by a registered The meeting was chaired by Clemence Cheng, environmental protection and have a history Continental ports and can render calls by time our tugs are overlooked as something in the and out of port, the more they are able to exercise nautical college – and even after that you have to HPUK Chief Executive, who opened by presenting of undertaking developments in a way that certain services in the UK as not viable. background – but, in fact, they play a critical part. ‘slow steaming’ between ports, saving money, fuel sit in front of a maritime and Coastguard Agency mr mcLoughlin with a pictorial history book of the are sympathetic to the environment. The If the tugs weren’t there, the ships couldn’t berth. and emissions. It is all about availability, slots and (mCA) examiner and do an oral exam, which is Port of Felixstowe which contains a photograph of environmental benefits of some designations Commenting after the meeting, Clemence Cheng We are one of the vital cogs in smooth berthing and timing – to get it right is vital.” very tough.” his previous visit to the port as a junior minister are likely to be limited but the socio-economic said: departing.” in 1990. consequences are potentially significant. While today’s tugs are far more technically Interestingly, another ‘traditional’ aspect of During an open and honest exchange of views, the government must ensure the correct balance “We were very pleased that the Secretary of Svitzer has a fleet of four tugs based at Felixstowe, advanced than just a few years ago, towage the towage industry is the high level of family following key points were raised: is struck between the environment and the State made time in his schedule to discuss these providing a 24-hour service throughout the year. A itself remains a fairly traditional operation, he involvement. “There are a lot of old-fashioned economy. issues with people who are at the coal-face of the total of 36 crew members work on a roster system says. “And in that, you need real experience elements to this job and you can trace many • Although there is an appreciation of the work • Management of the road network is a concern transport industry day-in and day-out, and that he that ensures round-the-clock availability while also and expertise. A lot of our crew have been in families back several generations,” says Kevin. government and network Rail are currently for the haulage industry. greater planning of recognised the importance of this area to the UK complying with the European Working Time Directive, the business for a very long time. I find it isn’t Based at Svitzer’s gravesend office, he is the undertaking to improve rail connections road use, similar to that which occurred in transport network. I hope he found the exchange that requires flexibility and expertise all round. uncommon to be handing out 40-year service fifth generation of his own family to be involved at the port, there is a need for further London during the Olympics, could facilitate of views helpful and that they will be reflected in awards.” in towage on the Thames. improvements to the Felixstowe to smoother and quicker journeys. future transport policy.” FEATURE 3 P16 // 16 // // 17 // // 18 // // 19 // FEATURE 4 P18

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your role in the Haven ports? Q As Harbour master, I bear functional a responsibility for the safe navigation of a wEEK In tHE lIFE... vessels within Harwich Haven Authority’s statutory area. Essentially, that boils down to ensuring that the 08:00 Authority’s operational procedures comply with statutory Arrive at work – I cross to Harwich by launch from Felixstowe. my first requirements – encompassing personnel, resource issues and equipment. In this respect, the Authority places the port of call is the ops room, where I touch base with the duty officer and highest emphasis on compliance and good practice as per check on the night’s work, find out about any incidents or delays, check on

ng the Port marine Safety Code. I have overall responsibility the status of the launches, pilots, etc., and check whether there are any for pilotage, vessel traffic services (VTS), surveying, problems with the weather. ALwAyS marine engineering and marine services. We have regular meetings with all the stakeholders, including the ports of Felixstowe, and Harwich. Each port has its 08:30 own operational procedures, so it’s important to discuss Dealing with the day’s emails and letters and with any unfinished business. operational and communication issues to make sure our Q&A operations dovetail and there is no clash. 09:30 Chairing a meeting of the navigational Safety Committee (navSafCom), Biggest challenge of your job? which brings together all the marine departments and considers all aspects Q meeting the needs of all port users and a providing the services that ensure ships arrive of navigational safety. Topics could include the arrival of a new class of and depart safely and on time – and, the overriding thing, vessel and how we are going to deal with that, or recent CPD and simulator in all weathers. The weather plays a very large part in our studies, proposed changes to buoyage, or recent changes in legislation and

LOOKIng nn I lives. Essentially it is all about making sure our operation how it might affect our operation. moves vessels as slickly, efficiently, expeditiously and safely as possible, whatever the weather throws at us. 11.00 n A UTHORITY most satisfying about your job? Internal marine team meeting. We’ll discuss progress on the construction Q Spend some time at the new viewing point at of our new pilot launch number four, dredging and any areas of notable a Landguard Point, and you can expect to see siltation, and VTS updates, amongst other things. the world’s largest containerships, most glamorous cruise ships and most efficient ro-ro ferries making their way to and from the Haven ports. But all of that doesn’t just 13.00 happen! I head up the ‘backstage team’, all the people Lunch at my desk while I catch up on phone calls and emails. A halfway AHEAd who work every day to make sure this busy estuary is a check in the ops room. BY STEPHEn BRACEWELL, CEO, HARWICH HAVEn AUTHORITY place of safety, efficiency and environmental protection. To put it into context, last year there were about 18,000 vessel movements within Harwich Harbour. It is almost a 14.00 Reading through papers and doing prep for two meetings tomorrow – the his year Harwich Haven Authority is In recent months we have embarked on a series of major dredger to the surface, where geotechnical surveyors cliché but coming in in the morning and hearing that there Port marine Safety Code steering group and the Port Skills & Safety steering celebrating 150 years since it was studies as we plan for another major channel deepening photograph, record and take samples, so that a full is nothing to report is really the best report you can get. group which is looking at certificates of competence for marine pilots. It is set up by government to secure, – to prepare for future generations of vessels and to detailed report can be delivered. enjoyable being involved in policy and procedure development. maintain and improve access to improve accessibility. what do you like best in your role? Harwich Harbour, in recognition of All of these studies will cost up to �1.5 million in total 1973: Started a career at sea which took me absolutely all over the Q That is easy to answer – it’s the variety. I the strategic value to the nation of There are four activities to be undertaken in what is and take until the end of 2014 to complete. We applied a interact with a whole spectrum of people 15.00 in my job, from speaking to the owner of a leisure craft this important location effectively a pre-planning application. to the European Commission for fi nancial support from Chairing the watch coxswains’ meeting, discussing operational matters, world, working my way up to master. I served on a variety of that has got in the way and impeded a container vessel the TEn-T programme and are delighted that funding of ships, including cargo ships and container ships, and latterly coming in, to liaising with Port of Felixstowe operational any difficulties, etc. We might have a particular vessel presenting problems So, 2013: A cause for celebration? Of • A complete modelling of the water fl ows, tidal 50% of the total cost is being recommended. managers, all the way up to delivering presentations to with pilot ladders – we discuss how we are going to deal with that. And we course! An excuse to look back with levels, waves and sedimentation; anchor handlers, survey vessels and others in the offshore shipping ministers. There is no such thing as a boring always remember a pat on the back for a good job done. pride on the Authority’s achievements? Defi nitely! Time • Site investigation operations and seismic survey After completing the pre-application, a full planning day! But actually, I consider myself incredibly fortunate in to talk about how much our role has changed? Well, not analysis; application could be ready for submission early in 2015, support sector. that every job I have ever done I have loved doing. going T gLE nd I to work has never been a problem – it has always been 16.00 exactly. • Soils testing and investigation; leading to consent in the same year. exciting and challenging. Checking on the expected vessel movements overnight, looking at the • Environmental studies, including a full 1990: Came ashore as a pilot at Lowestoft. duty roster and the weather forecast. Are we expecting bad weather or Yes, the scale, size and speed of today’s shipping detailed environmental impact assessment – And the work itself? Of course we need funding in fog and how are we going to deal with that? The weather is a constant activities would stagger our forefathers but, in essence, encompassing water sediment water quality, place – and we will be seeking further support through Favourite Film: Best day? The Shawshank A busy day when everything goes theme for us. Are there any vessel conflicts – for example, when several our core job remains the same as it was in 1863. And ornithology, coastal processes, noise, vibration, air the TEn-T regime. But we also need to engage dredging Q Q large vessels are due to be moving at the same time – and how are we just like our forefathers 150 years ago, we are still quality and archaeology. contractors with the availability of time and suitable 1998: Joined Harwich Haven Authority as a pilot, later becoming a Redemption a smoothly and everything goes to plan – even though the plan can change regularly! going to plan for this? looking forward, as we anticipate and plan for the future equipment to handle this signifi cant job. We estimate senior pilot, bringing in some of the biggest ships being Ideal dinner guest: needs of all our stakeholders. The physical work has been largely completed. What it will take 20 months to remove in excess of 20 million Q Boris Johnson. sort of ground structure and substance lies beneath the cubic metres, to achieve the likely improvements to the handled at Felixstowe at that time. a Whatever you think Favourite Book: 17.00 of his politics, he’d keep the A book about Lord Cochrane, probably meeting with Deputy Harbour master Operations, when we discuss the The current main approach channel serving Felixstowe current channel bottom? The only way to fi nd out is to channel. conversation flowing! Q a the real ‘Horatio Hornblower’. progress of our latest two VTS recruits and consider any VTS issues. and Harwich is 14.5 metres deep, takes just one hour dig down and take a look. “2013: a CaUSE FOR First Record Bought: Favourite meal: to transit and is already handling the largest vessels Bearing in mind the planning timeframe, we need to 2009: Became Deputy Harbour master (Operations). Q Slade Alive, by Slade planned and in service, including maersk’s most recently A barge fi tted with backhoe dredger has dug 117 ‘trial act now. We must make sure we are in a position to a – how embarrassing! Q Anything spicy LATER … introduced ‘Triple E’ vessels. Its proximity to the main pits’ in pre-determined locations along the entire 12-mile deliver any necessary enhancements to the harbour last Cd Bought: a I am always on call so it won’t be unusual to get a call in the night if there ocean trading routes has long been recognised as one length of the navigational channel, from the outer limits and its approaches. Over the decades, the foresight and 2011: Appointed Harbour master and marine manager. Q An album by Seasick Ideal Holiday destination: are any issues to be resolved or there’s something I need to know about. of the major attractions to port developers and shipping through to the berths. planning of Harwich Haven Authority has been critical in a Steve, an American Q Anywhere with plenty of sunshine and After a career at sea, I’m used to that. It goes with the job! blues musician. half decent wine – preferably by the sea lines. maintaining the harbour’s leading role as a hub port for CElEBRatIOn” H ARBOUR mASTER A n D mARI E mA g ER , ARWICH AVE a In this process, material extracted is brought up by the global shipping lines. We intend to keep it that way. nEIL OPINION P20 - PEOPLE P22 // 20 // // 21 // // 22 // // 23 //

SHIP2SHORE Commercial Enquiries Published by: Commercial Department Hutchison Ports (UK) Limited Issue #14 Tel: (01394) 602591 Tomline House, The Dock November 2013 E-mail: [email protected] Felixstowe, IP11 3SY Editorial Corporate Affairs Department Tel: (01394) 602064 E-mail: [email protected]

For further information on any of the three HPUK ports, please visit: www.hpuk.co.uk SHIP2SHORE #14

The last few months have seen a number of exciting developments at Hutchison Ports and within the wider shipping industry. At the Port of Felixstowe, we became the first UK port to pass the 70 million TEU mark, and in the last few weeks have become the first port in the country to handle an 18,000 TEU vessel, the biggest container vessel afloat today.

Amongst the world’s major shipping lines we have seen signs of further cooperation with the announcement by Maersk, MSC and CGM-CMA of the P3. With a combined fleet of 255 vessels and over 2 million TEU slot capacity, P3 will represent a step-change in the demands upon port operators.

The emergence of this new alliance will inevitably result in a number of winners and losers within the ports sector. The larger number of containers exchanged per vessel will exacerbate the spikes in demand for port operations and ports will need to up their game to provide the necessary levels of service.

The news that the P3 will be headquartered in London has provided a timely boost for the British shipping industry and for the UK as a centre of maritime excellence. It follows the success of the inaugural London International Shipping Week in September which we were proud to support.

Separately, I was delighted to recently chair a business forum at Felixstowe involving a number of leaders from shipping lines and logistic industries as well as end users, with the Rt Hon Patrick McLoughlin MP, Secretary of State for Transport, as our guest of honour. The Secretary of State was keen to hear from key voices in the industry how Government can help ensure the right facilities and climate is created to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the supply chain.

The sound bites from the Forum were useful from our perspective, allowing us to work closely with our partners to constantly change, innovate and improve to ensure that we remain the operator of choice for shippers, forwarders and shipping lines serving the UK.

Clemence Cheng Chief Executive Officer Int ro duct io n

// 3 // SHIP2SHORE #14 LATEST DEVELOP- MENTS

Felixstowe Wins Rail Freight Award ambition the port has for rail, and the innovative The level of rail traffic being moved through solutions we have introduced to ensure that Felixstowe means that over 50% of containers The Port of Felixstowe has won again at the Rail Felixstowe stays well ahead of the game. We moving to the West Midlands and North-West

Freight Group’s annual award ceremony. The port, offer our customers a frequency of service and now go by rail, saving millions of tonnes of CO2 which has twice been named Rail Business of a range of destinations that are not available every year. the Year, was recognised for its new North Rail anywhere else.” Terminal.

The new terminal is equipped with a Traverser, the only one of its type at an intermodal terminal in the UK, which shunts locomotives sideways between tracks to allow them to exit the terminal after pulling in a full train. The initiative to design and fit the traverser won the Technical Development of the Year award. The North Rail Terminal itself was runner-up in the Project of the Year category.

Commenting after collecting the awards, Andrew Harston, Port Development Director, said:

“The new North Rail Terminal is the first terminal of its type designed for trains of over 30 wagons in length. It will double rail capacity at the port and the awards recognise both the scale of the

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Port of Felixstowe passes 70m TEU Right Honourable Patrick McLoughlin, celebrating rich maritime history, supported by key financial milestone this achievement with us today. services and a productive partnership between government and industry, has helped make The Port of Felixstowe has passed another “Our continued commitment to investment has shipping a real success story for Britain – the milestone with the handling of the 70th million ensured that we have the capacity to support volume of goods coming through UK ports has TEU since container operations began at the port the economic growth of this country, and the tripled in the past ten years. in the mid-1960s. equipment and operational excellence to provide our customers with a fast and efficient service.” “It is fitting for Felixstowe to reach this landmark The landmark container was loaded aboard the in the run up to London International Shipping 13,800-TEU MSC Bettina by the Rt Hon Patrick Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: Week, when the shipping world’s attention will McLoughlin MP, UK Secretary of State for be focused on us. Shipping is an engine for Transport, driving a huge container crane under “I’m proud to help celebrate this milestone growth and we want to ensure the UK builds on the guidance of one of the port’s crane driving for the port – 70 million containers is a truly its position as a global leader.” instructors. staggering amount and is a testament to the important role Felixstowe continues to play in As a critical piece of national infrastructure, the Commenting on the port’s achievement, driving growth. Port of Felixstowe has a key role to play as the UK Clemence Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of moves towards economic recovery. Whilst at the Hutchison Ports (UK) Limited, owners of the Port “Shipping and maritime are big business for the port the Secretary of State met with key players in of Felixstowe, said: UK – the sector is already worth up to £14bn per the logistics industry and users of the port to get a year to the economy and, most importantly, it is first-hand understanding of how important the Port “Passing this latest milestone underlines the Port steadily growing. of Felixstowe is in facilitating UK trade with the of Felixstowe’s position as the Port of Britain rest of the world. (see page 18-19) and highlights its long record of achievement. “The Greenwich Meridian makes us, quite Felixstowe has been the UK’s leading container literally, the centre of the shipping world and The Port of Felixstowe handled a record 3.7 port for over 30 years and we have the pleasure our central time zone means we can do business million TEU in 2012, over 40% of all containers of having the Secretary of State for Transport, the with both sides of the world in one day. Our moved through UK ports.

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BG Freight launches new London Felixstowe offers cheaper gateway Felixstowe has a further advantage, MDS Thamesport Service into UK says study said, in that it can offer economies of scale for onward transport by rail. The port has 30 B.G. Freight Line B.V. has launched a new service A new study undertaken by specialist different rail services each day to a total of 17 providing an additional weekly feeder link between consultants MDS Transmodal has confirmed inland destinations. London Thamesport and Rotterdam. that Felixstowe continues to offer the cheapest Gateway in the South East of the UK. Taken together, the consultants calculated The new service provided by the 800 TEU that inland transport costs from Felixstowe per containerships Doris Schepers & Jork Ruler calls at The consultants found that “considering both one-way container were £312 versus £321 via London Thamesport each Friday. inland and maritime costs together, Felixstowe London Gateway and £322 via Southampton. has an overall cost advantage of £26 per Commenting on the commencement of the service, container”. To that £9 differential, the consultants added Andrew Harston, Chief Operating Officer of London another £17 for the “diversion costs” to London Thamesport, said: The consultants said “the inland distribution Gateway from the key Benelux shipping lanes of import cargoes is based upon the location — an extra 76 miles. “London Thamesport specialises in offering its of large warehouses and not population”, with customers a highly efficient tailor-made service and most of the big warehouses located in the Basing calculations on a 10,000TEU mega- we look forward to working with BG Freight line. Midlands or the North. London and the South ship unloading 2,200 boxes at a UK port, the The introduction of their new service complements East have only 11pc of such warehouses, consultants said such diversion costs were a the range of deep-sea and short-sea connections despite accounting for 30pc of the population. key factor because “without exception, deep- we already provide at the port offering a greater sea ships serving the UK also call at a Benelux range of options to importers and exporters.” “London is itself effectively served via port”. warehouses that themselves can lie up to London Thamesport is one of the UK’s leading 200km north of the capital” MDS found, adding In terms of maritime access, the consultants deep-sea and short-sea container ports. Situated that some alternatives on the Thames faced said: “We estimate that Felixstowe offers a just 35 miles from London, it boasts a depth of 15 extra costs from road congestion around the £17 advantage per container handled over metres of water alongside, and the 655 metres of capital. London Gateway and a £7 advantage over quay provides 2 operational berths equipped with 8 Southampton.” ship-to-shore gantry cranes, allowing high intensity operations and excellent operational performance.

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FCPS Expands Services

Felixstowe Port Container Services (FPCS) have diversified into bespoke container conversions, demonstrating that the versatility of the steel shipping container knows no bounds. FPCS are taking advantage of the growing market by converting containers into anything from basic storage to hot shower blocks and changing rooms.

Among the many uses of containers are as offices, storage units, garages, laboratories, sheds, café/ restaurants, site offices, club houses, canteens, shower blocks, changing rooms, workshops, conference rooms, classrooms, stables and exhibition stands.

The skilled, on-site, fabrication team, supported by contract tradesmen, work closely with customers to deliver unique container conversions from initial design conception, through to completion of the unit.

Depot Manager Barry Capon said:

“From only a few dozen simple conversions in 2012, this sector of our business has grown significantly throughout 2013. With enquiries coming in daily, by the end of this year we expect to have carried out over 200 successful conversions.”

In addition, FPCS also provide facilities for container and reefer damage inspection and repair; application of anti-condensation coatings; re-sprays and decal renewal/replacement; empty container storage; Sloman Neptun Celebrates 10 Years at Speaking after the presentation, Andrew Harston, document storage; as well as reefer monitoring and Harwich Chief Operating Officer of Harwich International pre trip inspections. Port, said: A ceremony has been held to mark the tenth For more information and a quotation please contact anniversary of the commencement of services by “We are delighted to mark this important Depot Manager Barry Capon at FPCS on 01394 Sloman Neptun Shipping & Transport GmbH from anniversary of the relationship between Sloman 602741. E-mail – [email protected] Harwich International Port. Neptun and Harwich International Port. Both are multi-purpose operators catering to a wide The Bremen-based company first called at the port variety of cargo types and both are committed to on the 18 August 2003 with a call by the 8,000-ton providing their mutual customers with the highest Sloman Trader. Sloman continues to offer regular levels of service and cargo care that is second- sailings from the Essex-port with four modern to-none.” multi-purpose vessels to ports in Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Libya. In addition to serving North Africa, Sloman vessels call at Leixoes in Portugal and Cartagena in Spain To mark the event, Captain Victor Kolomarenko, en route which provides the opportunity for UK master of the Sloman Producer, was presented shippers to load cargo north- or south-bound to with a framed photograph of the vessel at the port. Spain and Portugal.

// 7 // SHIP2SHORE #14 Short but sweet the maritime advantage

ard facts and real figures Felixstowe offers users a mean cost advantage has just arrived at the Sunk pilot station out – difficult to argue of £25 per container per direction relative to in the North Sea – this is where the deepsea with. And in a major London Gateway, rising marginally if fuel prices pilot climbs aboard, ready to guide your vessel cost analysis study by increase,” says MDS Transmodal. to its designated berth. From the ship’s bridge leading consultants MDS you can actually see Felixstowe’s ship-to-shore Transmodal, the conclusion And it concludes: “In so far as maritime cranes. At this point, you can take advantage is clear. Felixstowe offers access costs are concerned, Felixstowe has a of Felixstowe’s short approach channel and get the lowest cost gateway significant advantage.” quickly to your berth – or you can add another solution of all the south- 76 miles of steaming (and 76 miles of pilotage), east UK container ports, The facts speak for themselves. Deepsea if you were to choose London Gateway instead. for imports and shipping lines. Felixstowe, container ships serving the UK also call at key Hwithout question, has the marine advantage. mainland European hubs – including, without How does that translate into real costs? The exception, a Benelux port. These ships are on report compares the marine costs of using This is a report with real attention to detail. tight schedules and looking for the minimum Felixstowe, Southampton and London Gateway. Both marine side and land side costs were deviation from their route – time is money and Ship’s dues (conservancy and navigation) and rigorously calculated, analysed and compared, so, of course, is any additional fuel burned. also pilotage charges in the Solent or the Thames and the results confirm the unbeatable are much higher than in the Haven to reach advantage of Felixstowe’s location. Felixstowe, by far the largest UK container port, is Felixstowe, it says. There are further potential also the closest port to the main shipping lanes. delays in reaching London Gateway because of The figures? “Taking into account all inland and tidal restrictions or the risk of missing a tide. maritime costs, we estimate that the Port of Imagine you are on a huge container ship that

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// 10 // SHIP2SHORE #14 What’s important is our ability to turn round vessels very quickly.”

“The net result is that for a 10,000 TEU into any kind of weather delay, we can depend container ship exchanging 2,200 containers at on the speed and commitment of our workforce a UK port, we estimate that Felixstowe offers to get back on schedule. We have disconnected a £17 advantage per container handled over our yard operations from our quayside London Gateway, and a £7 advantage over operations to ensure no knock-on delays. It’s fair Southampton.” to say that all ports, because of their proximity to the sea, are subject to weather issues at Considering both inland and maritime costs some point. What’s important is our ability to together, the Port of Felixstowe has an overall turn round vessels very quickly.” cost advantage of £25 per container, compared to London Gateway, says MDS. And even if a “Wind delays are, in reality, very few and far shipping line were to offer a shipper the same between and when they do happen they are quay-to-quay rate, the shipper should still make a usually limited to a few hours. Diverting to saving of £8 per container on inland costs, it adds. another port could add at least 6 hours delay to every call.” “An overriding priority for the major container shipping lines is that they don’t want to be The inland factors unnecessarily diverted,” says Paul Wallace, The inland distribution of import cargoes is Hutchison Ports UK Commercial Director. based upon the location of large warehouses “Felixstowe’s huge advantage is its proximity and not population, MDS emphasises. The great to the international shipping lanes, and that is majority of import containers are destined for even more the case with ever-increasing bunker national distribution centres generally located prices. The last thing shipping lines want to do in the Midlands and the North. is add extra costs by adding longer steaming distances, higher pilotage charges and higher “Felixstowe’s location of being some 100 kms conservancy costs. from the M25 is not a handicap because London is itself effectively served via warehouses that “Vessels want to get in and out of port as themselves can lie up to 200 kms north of the quickly as possible. Any way that they can capital.” reduce their time in port and get on with their journey at sea is a way of increasing efficiency Added to that is Felixstowe’s unrivalled strength and saving money. It doesn’t make sense to in terms of rail facilities and connections – add an extra six hour round-trip when you don’t currently the port is served by 30 trains in and need to.” 30 trains out, every day. That scale is important, offering choice and cost-effectiveness. The Port of Felixstowe has focused strongly on productivity and performance to ensure that Road congestion is another issue; the MDS once vessels are berthed, they are unloaded, says a detailed survey of more than 1,000 road loaded and sent on their way again as quickly haulage trips showed that congestion and other as technical and safety considerations allow. factors adds half an hour to the journey time of containers from the lower Thames than from “There’s a popular belief that our position Felixstowe. And with quantity comes even more nearest to the international shipping lanes choice, with Felixstowe offering a higher chance has to be balanced with our exposure to the of a container being back-loaded, because weather,” says Paul Wallace. “But in fact, the of a high number of potential export loads – port is rarely closed for wind and if we do get reducing haulage costs even further.

// 11 // SHIP2SHORE #14 Keeping it deep maintaining navigation channels

roviding the vessel traffic infrastructure? Airport runways tend to stay Chief Executive, Stephen Bracewell. “We work services (VTS) function in a where you put them. Marine access channels strategically with partners to deliver the critical busy harbour has been likened have a habit of shifting, thanks to day-to-day infrastructure – the marine access – just as to running air traffic control siltation, storms and tides, amongst other others plan for road or rail maintenance.” operations at a busy airport – factors. but with massive tidal changes It is Harwich Haven Authority’s responsibility and currents thrown in, just to “The deepwater channel we maintain is like to keep the channels and berths within its add a bit of interest. the runway and approaches for the ports – the jurisdiction clear for commercial traffic. To big difference is that our ‘runway’ is moving achieve this, regular maintenance dredging is P But what about the all the time,” says Harwich Haven Authority’s required, and that involves removing

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// 13 // SHIP2SHORE #14 as much as three million cubic metres of silt a disposal ground. The volume dredged each year. This work is carried out by a joint venture year is usually around 2.5 million cubic metres, “We work between two major dredging companies – and there are usually four or five campaigns Boskalis Westminster and Van Oord UK – in a throughout the year. strategically contract that has been running since January 2009. Each campaign takes approximately three with partners weeks, with a trailing suction hopper dredger The Authority’s Harbour Engineer, John Brien, (TSHD) of around 10,000 cubic metres capacity to deliver is responsible for ensuring that these dredging on site for a significant period. Put simply, operations are carefully planned and managed a TSHD pumps up soft mud from the seabed the critical throughout the year, as efficiently and cost- through a suction pipe, then carries the load effectively as possible. out to sea for disposal. A plough vessel is infrastructure” used to bring material from the berth faces to a There are two distinct sides to the programme. location that can be accessed by the TSHD and to assist in maintaining Harwich International, First there are the major works, which involve Harwich Navyard, Mistley and other port dredging in the approaches and berth pockets channels and jetties. The trailer dredgers are to Felixstowe and Harwich, and disposal of also occasionally deployed in the outer sections the dredged material at the Inner Gabbard of the approach channel.

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Second, there are the minor works – the the harbour, this must also be balanced with Beneficial Sediment Replacement Scheme defending the unique environment, wildlife and Felixstowe designed to feed mobile sediments back into habitats of the Stour and Orwell estuary. The the estuary and rivers to maintain the natural entire dredging programme is subject to some is one of the ecological balance. The material is generally very tight restrictions and monitoring in order to dredged from the Felixstowe berths and achieve this. busiest ports in which approaches, for disposal at two locations on the River Stour and two on the River Orwell. How, where and when the dredged material to operate in the UK” can be disposed of is controlled and licensed by In a very strictly timed and monitored programme, the Marine Management Organisation. One of the works are carried out using a shallow draft the conditions is to ensure that all reasonable THSD over the winter period (November to April), precautions are taken to prevent the disposal of to minimise any disturbance to wildlife. manmade debris at sea. The Authority carries out a wide range of environmental monitoring to operate all over the world with extensive In another facet of the works, WID – water assess any impacts on the habitats and species fleets of vessels which are highly flexible and injection dredging – is used in restricted, shallow in the estuaries and this monitoring is reported to versatile – and this wide-ranging experience areas, where space is tight and there’s a need to a group of regulators and advisors every year. is shared and implemented in Felixstowe and dredge close to structures. Harwich. It probably goes without saying that effective Surveying during the dredging campaigns is a coordination is at the heart of the entire dredging “Felixstowe is one of the busiest ports in very intensive exercise, say the joint venture programme. The dredging operators have daily which to operate in the UK,” they say. “When partners. The main dredge area, stretching over contact with Harwich Haven Authority, to ensure carrying out operations in the port and channel, about 1.5 million square metres, is surveyed the smooth execution of the works. They must the captains and crew need to maintain full every day. The survey information, including that also coordinate with the ports and other shipping concentration during the dredging whilst of adjacent areas, is updated and supplied to activities in the channel, to ensure safe working navigating around commercial traffic and the dredger, plough vessel and Harbour Engineer practices while also being able to access the pleasure crafts. The JV is continuously investing every afternoon. areas of the port and channel that it needs to and developing new methods and technology, dredge, to avoid delays to the programme. which in turn increases the efficiency and While it’s vital to maintain the required effectiveness of the operations.” depths for the commercial shipping accessing Boskalis Westminster and Van Oord both

// 15 // SHIP2SHORE #14 Towing the Line tugs and technology

hen did you “We operate with three-man crews on our tugs last really – a master, mate and chief engineer. A lot of our It’s the old notice a tug? mates are qualified to take over from the master. Perhaps when The crew do a week on / week off rotation and story of it was involved we have flexibility built in; if we have gone in some sort to the maximum hours per crew, we need to going about your daily of celebration, be able to call in others on duty. All crew are taking centre trained to work on all four tugs. Even though two business unnoticed” stage to spray of the tugs are identical sister boats, they still water fountains have their own quirks – so all crew must have while fireworks went off behind? Well, it’s only familiarisation throughout the fleet, so they can between crews. The actual manoeuvres they Wright that our tugs and their crew catch the limelight jump in and get to work straight away.” carry out are pretty much the same whatever sometimes. Most of the time, they are distinctly the vessel size – what’s important is excellent in the background, eclipsed by the enormous ships The Felixstowe fleet comprises three tugs built communication with all those involved. they guide to and from their berths. by Damen Shipyards and one built at Kangawa Dockyard in Japan. ‘Dynamic berthing’ means “It is a case of liaising with the pilot on board and “It’s the old story of going about your daily business the tugs push and pull together, an operation discussing the power needed and the number of unnoticed,” says Kevin Boyd, Managing Director that requires expert handling and coordination tugs,” says Kevin. “We are there to optimise the South East UK for Svitzer Europe. “Quite a lot of the vessel’s turnround. The faster the ships can get in time our tugs are overlooked as something in the and out of port, the more they are able to exercise background – but, in fact, they play a critical part. ‘slow steaming’ between ports, saving money, fuel If the tugs weren’t there, the ships couldn’t berth. and emissions. It is all about availability, slots and We are one of the vital cogs in smooth berthing and timing – to get it right is vital.” departing.” While today’s tugs are far more technically Svitzer has a fleet of four tugs based at Felixstowe, advanced than just a few years ago, towage providing a 24-hour service throughout the year. A itself remains a fairly traditional operation, he total of 36 crew members work on a roster system says. “And in that, you need real experience that ensures round-the-clock availability while also and expertise. A lot of our crew have been in complying with the European Working Time Directive, the business for a very long time. I find it isn’t that requires flexibility and expertise all round. uncommon to be handing out 40-year service awards.”

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Often, new recruits have previously worked on fishing vessels, wind farm support boats and other smaller vessels. “We train them onboard and at college. They have to complete a lot of sea time and achieve their qualifications under the international Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). All training must be signed off by a registered nautical college – and even after that you have to sit in front of a Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) examiner and do an oral exam, which is very tough.”

Interestingly, another ‘traditional’ aspect of the towage industry is the high level of family involvement. “There are a lot of old-fashioned elements to this job and you can trace many families back several generations,” says Kevin. Based at Svitzer’s Gravesend office, he is the fifth generation of his own family to be involved in towage on the Thames.

// 17 // SHIP2SHORE #14 Secretary of State Round Table

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he Secretary of State for improvements to the Felixstowe to Nuneaton Transport, the Rt Hon Patrick route. Work has been identified as part of the McLoughlin MP, visited rail planning process and it is important that “I hope he found Felixstowe recently to mark the Government delivers on these schemes. Future 70 millionth TEU handled at the electrification was seen as a priority. the exchange of UK’s leading container port (see page 5). Whilst there, he took • Both train operators and retailers would views helpful” the opportunity to meet with like a longer regime for the revenue support a number of logistics industry grants scheme than the current three year leaders at an event hosted by period to help business planning. Seven Hutchison Ports. years was proposed as a more realistic assurances on the tax position of alternative T timeframe. fuels, or even Government support for the Senior executives from shipping lines, haulage adoption of low-emission fuels, would be companies, train operators, retailers and port • The proposals to tackle the bottleneck on the very helpful. users met with the Minister to discuss their A14 at Cambridge were warmly welcomed transport policy priorities and to give him direct but there is concern about the impact of the • The shipping industry is still affected by feedback from the freight operators’ perspective. proposed tolls on the freight industry. the imposition of Light Dues in UK ports. Comparable charges are not paid at The meeting was chaired by Clemence Cheng, • The proposals by Defra to designate certain Continental ports and can render calls by HPUK Chief Executive, who opened by presenting areas as Marine Conservation Zones are certain services in the UK as not viable. Mr McLoughlin with a pictorial history book of the causing some uncertainty. Government must Port of Felixstowe which contains a photograph of ensure the correct balance is struck between Commenting after the meeting, Clemence Cheng his previous visit to the port as a junior minister the environment and the economy. said: in 1990. • Management of the road network is a concern “We were very pleased that the Secretary of During an open and honest exchange of views, the for the haulage industry. Greater planning of State made time in his schedule to discuss these following key points were raised: road use, similar to that which occurred in issues with people who are at the coal-face of the London during the Olympics, could facilitate transport industry day-in and day-out, and that he • Although there is an appreciation of the work smoother and quicker journeys. recognised the importance of this area to the UK Government and Network Rail are currently transport network. I hope he found the exchange undertaking to improve rail connections • The industry is looking at ways to of views helpful and that they will be reflected in at the port, there is a need for further decarbonise the supply chain. Any future transport policy.”

// 19 // SHIP2SHORE #14 Always looking ahead by Stephen Bracewell, CEO, Harwich Haven Authority

his year Harwich Haven In recent months we have embarked on a series of major dredger to the surface, where geotechnical surveyors Authority is celebrating 150 studies as we plan for another major channel deepening photograph, record and take samples, so that a full years since it was set up by – to prepare for future generations of vessels and to detailed report can be delivered. Government to secure, maintain improve accessibility. and improve access to Harwich All of these studies will cost up to £1.5 million in total Harbour, in recognition of the There are four activities to be undertaken in what is and take until the end of 2014 to complete. We applied strategic value to the nation of effectively a pre-planning application. to the European Commission for financial support from this important location the TEN-T programme and are delighted that funding of • A complete modelling of the water flows, tidal 50% of the total cost is being recommended. So, 2013: A cause for celebration? levels, waves and sedimentation; Of course! An excuse to look back with pride on the • Site investigation operations and seismic survey After completing the pre-application, a full planning TAuthority’s achievements? Definitely! Time to talk about analysis; application could be ready for submission early in 2015, how much our role has changed? Well, not exactly. • Soils testing and investigation; leading to consent in the same year. • Environmental studies, including a full Yes, the scale, size and speed of today’s shipping detailed environmental impact assessment – And the work itself? Of course we need funding in activities would stagger our forefathers but, in essence, encompassing water sediment water quality, place – and we will be seeking further support through our core job remains the same as it was in 1863. And ornithology, coastal processes, noise, vibration, air the TEN-T regime. But we also need to engage dredging just like our forefathers 150 years ago, we are still quality and archaeology. contractors with the availability of time and suitable looking forward, as we anticipate and plan for the future equipment to handle this significant job. We estimate needs of all our stakeholders. The physical work has been largely completed. What it will take 20 months to remove in excess of 20 million sort of ground structure and substance lies beneath the cubic metres, to achieve the likely improvements to the The current main approach channel serving Felixstowe current channel bottom? The only way to find out is to channel. and Harwich is 14.5 metres deep, takes just one hour dig down and take a look. to transit and is already handling the largest vessels Bearing in mind the planning timeframe, we need to planned and in service, including Maersk’s most recently A barge fitted with backhoe dredger has dug 117 ‘trial act now. We must make sure we are in a position to introduced ‘Triple E’ vessels. Its proximity to the main pits’ in pre-determined locations along the entire 12-mile deliver any necessary enhancements to the harbour ocean trading routes has long been recognised as one length of the navigational channel, from the outer limits and its approaches. Over the decades, the foresight and of the major attractions to port developers and shipping through to the berths. planning of Harwich Haven Authority has been critical in lines. maintaining the harbour’s leading role as a hub port for In this process, material extracted is brought up by the global shipping lines. We intend to keep it that way.

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“2013: A cause for celebration”

// 21 // SHIP2SHORE #14

1973: Started a career at sea which took me absolutely all over the world, working my way up to Master. I served on a variety of ships, including cargo ships and container ships, and latterly anchor handlers, survey vessels and others in the offshore support sector.

1990: Came ashore as a pilot at Lowestoft.

1998: Joined Harwich Haven Authority as a pilot, later becoming senior pilot, bringing in some of the biggest ships being handled at Felixstowe at that time.

2009: Became Deputy Harbour Master (Operations).

2011: Appointed Harbour Master and Marine Manager. n A uthority H arbour M aster a n d ari e ager , arwich ave Neil Gle nd i nn ng

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Your role in the Haven ports? Q As Harbour Master, I bear functional A responsibility for the safe navigation of A DAY IN THE LIFE... vessels within Harwich Haven Authority’s statutory area. Essentially, that boils down to ensuring that the 08:00 Authority’s operational procedures comply with statutory Arrive at work – I cross to Harwich by launch from Felixstowe. My first requirements – encompassing personnel, resource issues and equipment. In this respect, the Authority places the port of call is the ops room, where I touch base with the duty officer and highest emphasis on compliance and good practice as per check on the night’s work, find out about any incidents or delays, check on the Port Marine Safety Code. I have overall responsibility the status of the launches, pilots, etc., and check whether there are any for pilotage, vessel traffic services (VTS), surveying, problems with the weather. marine engineering and marine services. We have regular meetings with all the stakeholders, including the ports of Felixstowe, Ipswich and Harwich. Each port has its 08:30 own operational procedures, so it’s important to discuss Dealing with the day’s emails and letters and with any unfinished business. operational and communication issues to make sure our Q&A operations dovetail and there is no clash. 09:30 Chairing a meeting of the Navigational Safety Committee (NavSafCom), Biggest challenge of your job? which brings together all the marine departments and considers all aspects Q Meeting the needs of all port users and A providing the services that ensure ships arrive of navigational safety. Topics could include the arrival of a new class of and depart safely and on time – and, the overriding vessel and how we are going to deal with that, or recent CPD and simulator thing, in all weathers. Essentially it is all about making studies, proposed changes to buoyage, or recent changes in legislation and sure our operation moves vessels as slickly, efficiently, how it might affect our operation. expeditiously and safely as possible, whatever the weather throws at us. 11.00 Most satisfying about your job? Internal marine team meeting. We’ll discuss progress on the construction Q Spend some time at the new viewing point at of our new pilot launch number four, dredging and any areas of notable A Landguard Point, and you can expect to see siltation, and VTS updates, amongst other things. the world’s largest containerships, most glamorous cruise ships and most efficient ro-ro ferries making their way to and from the Haven ports. But all of that doesn’t just 13.00 happen! I head up the ‘backstage team’, all the people Lunch at my desk while I catch up on phone calls and emails. A halfway who work every day to make sure this busy estuary is a check in the ops room. place of safety, efficiency and environmental protection. To put it into context, last year there were about 18,000 vessel movements within Harwich Harbour. It is almost a 14.00 cliché but coming in in the morning and hearing that there Reading through papers and doing prep for two meetings tomorrow – the is nothing to report is really the best report you can get. Port Marine Safety Code steering group and the Port Skills & Safety steering group which is looking at certificates of competence for marine pilots. It is What do you like best in your role? enjoyable being involved in policy and procedure development. Q That is easy to answer – it’s the variety. I A interact with a whole spectrum of people 15.00 in my job, from speaking to the owner of a leisure craft Chairing the watch coxswains’ meeting, discussing operational matters, that has got in the way and impeded a container vessel coming in, to liaising with Port of Felixstowe operational any difficulties, etc. We might have a particular vessel presenting problems managers, all the way up to delivering presentations to with pilot ladders – we discuss how we are going to deal with that. And we shipping ministers. There is no such thing as a boring always remember a pat on the back for a good job done. day! But actually, I consider myself incredibly fortunate in that every job I have ever done I have loved doing. Going to work has never been a problem – it has always been 16.00 exciting and challenging. Checking on the expected vessel movements overnight, looking at the duty roster and the weather forecast. Are we expecting bad weather or fog and how are we going to deal with that? The weather is a constant Favourite Film: Best day? The Shawshank A busy day when everything goes theme for us. Are there any vessel conflicts – for example, when several Q Q large vessels are due to be moving at the same time – and how are we Redemption A smoothly and everything goes to plan A going to plan for this? Ideal Dinner Guest: – even though the plan can change regularly! Q Boris Johnson. A Whatever you think Favourite Book: 17.00 of his politics, he’d keep the A book about Lord Cochrane, probably Meeting with Deputy Harbour Master Operations, when we discuss the conversation flowing! Q the real ‘Horatio Hornblower’. progress of our latest two VTS recruits and consider any VTS issues. First Record Bought: A Favourite Meal: Q Slade Alive, by Slade A – how embarrassing! Q Anything spicy Later … Last CD Bought: A I am always on call so it won’t be unusual to get a call in the night if there Q An album by Seasick Ideal Holiday Destination: are any issues to be resolved or there’s something I need to know about. A Steve, an American Q Anywhere with plenty of sunshine and After a career at sea, I’m used to that. It goes with the job! blues musician. A half decent wine – preferably by the sea

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SHIP2SHORE #14 #14 SHIP2SHORE

Felixstowe wins RFG AwARds P4 // PoRt oF Felixstowe PAsses 70m teU milestone P5 // BG FReiGht lAUnches new london thAmesPoRt seRvice P6 // Felixstowe oFFeRs cheAPeR GAtewAy into UK sAys stUdy P6 // FcPs exPAnds seRvices P7 // slomAn nePtUn celeBRAtes 10 yeARs At hARwich P7 // shoRt BUt sweet P8 - 11 // KeePinG it deeP P12 - 15 // towinG the line P16 - 17 // secRetARy oF stAte P18 - 19 // AlwAys looKinG AheAd P20 - 21 // neil GlendinninG P22 - 23

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