Ultra-large Containership Towing Capabilities Tested

The CMA CGM Group and German Havariekommando to test ultra-large container vessel towing capabilities on CMA CGM Jules Verne

Worldwide shipping group the CMA CGM Group and the German Authority Havariekommando tested Havariekommando´s capability to tow ultra-large container vessels during an exercise held on June 13, 2015.

The vessel used for this exercise was the CMA CGM Jules Verne, the CMA CGM’s 16,000 TEU flagship.

During the exercise, the Havariekommando ordered the CMA CGM Jules Verne to alter its geographical position, take over the role of a vessel in distress in an emergency towing, and allow and assist representatives of the Havariekommando to board.

The task of Havariekommando’s operation forces were to board the ship via helicopter; evaluate the situation with the master of the CMA CGM Jules Verne; train the communication between the on-scene-coordinator, the boarding team, the emergency towing vessels and the CMA CMG Jules Verne; assemble towing connections and tow the CMA CGM Jules Verne on different courses.

This exercise was intended as a learning experience conducted at Deep Water Road off Heligoland to enhance preparedness for emergency towing operations and succeeded in demonstrating both the Havariekommando and CMA CGM responsible attitude toward safety and environment.

On Scene Coordinator (OSC) Wolfgang Knopf said, "The collaboration between the crew of CMA CGM JULES VERNE and our operative forces was excellent. The advantages of the Emergency Towing system on board CMA CGM Jules Verne, which is not yet compulsory for large container vessels, nevertheless providing enormous benefits for the towing operation in terms of safety and strength."