A Post-casualty Rush to Judgment Can be Costly
It was a warm and sunny early summer morning in an increasingly popular and typically busy domestic harbor. And, not surprisingly, the water and waterfront were crowded with commercial and private vessels of every description. From a slowly moving tug/barge combination, a working dredge and a small tanker delivering fuel on the more industrial side of the harbor, to numerous water taxis, sightseeing boats and larger catamaran ferries, the harbor was buzzing with activity.All of these commercial vessels were operating in close quarters with a fleet of small yachtsâŚ
Ferry Vessel Dagestan Completes Modernization
The vessel "Dagestan" with a length of 154.5 and a width of 18.3 meters was built in 1984 in Pula, the former Yugoslavia (currently Croatia). It was decided to repair and upgrade the ferry "Dagestan", withdrawn from operations 5 years ago. Modernization of the ferry, which is one of the unique vessels of its time, was completely executed by the engineering and technical personnel of the Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company at the "Zigh" Ship Repair and Construction Yard. It should be noted that the project of modernization, the first in the history of the Shipping Company, was also developed by the personnel of the Shipping Company. Whole ferry management systems have been modernized. One of the main works is performed in the engine room.
Abu Dhabi Ports Marine Subsidiary Rebranded as SAFEEN
Abu Dhabi Ports, the master developer, operator and manager of ports and Khalifa Industrial Zone (Kizad) in the Emirate, has renamed its subsidiary, Abu Dhabi Marine Services, as âSAFEENâ âmeaning ships in Arabic- in a bid to rebrand itself. The announcement was followed closely by the brand winning the prestigious International Safety Management (ISM) certification from the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Further, as part of expanding its fleet and improving services, SAFEEN has added a new tug boat named âMAQTAAâ to its existing fleet of five tugs, five pilot boats, six speed boats, one buoy maintenance boat and two oil spill response boats. The company plans to acquire three more tug boats by the end of 2016.
Washington State Ferry System Reform Action Plan
Washington State Ferries (WSF) said it will work to implement a majority of 36 recommendations made by an independent panel to improve ferry operations. Changes will come in ferry management, vessel and terminal maintenance, finance, scheduling, labor and customer service, according to an action plan the Ferries Division of the Washington State Department of Transportation submitted to Gov. Chris Gregoire. âWe have a world-class ferry system that provides marine highways throughout the Puget Sound region that are vital to our economy and our way of life,â Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond said. In March, Gov. Gregoire asked the Passenger Vessel Association (PVA) to conduct a review of how well WSF has implemented changes recommended by past system reviews and auditsâŚ
Crew Cost Warning to Ferry Operators
âFerry companies need to take on the issues of pay, discipline and restrictive practices if they are to improve marginal profitability and service standards, according to a United Kingdom based industry expert. Bill Moses, who has worked in the industry for over 30 years, says pay and related issues have long been a key factor in the development of the ferry business. "It is something employers should not shy away from," he says. Mr Mosesâ own experience in labour affairs is long and impressive. He has achieved results with minimal dispute, interruption to service and unnecessary loss of face for trade unions, management and employees. Much of this has been achieved in negotiations with some of the toughest unions in Europe.
Bluewater International Ferry Shutdown Possible
Southern St. Clair County residents and tourists traveling to Canada may have to go the long way around - through Port Huron and over the Blue Water Bridge - to get to Ontario and back. The Bluewater International Ferry, which is located just east of state highway M-29, provides the fastest, most convenient rout to Canada, but, due to high marine service fees, ferry management is threatening to close for the winter. The Canadian-owned Bluewater Ferry docks in Sombra, Ontario, and Marine City. Ferry manager Capt. Morgan Dalgety said exorbitant ice-breaking charges from the Canadian Coast Guard's Oceans and Fisheries Division are putting a financial squeeze on the company.
