It may come as a surprise to you, but Grand Bahama Island is the only location in the Bahamas where you can obtain bunkers! Yes I know 700 islands and only 1 location available for bunkering. This is yet another benefit of carrying out maritime related business on Grand Bahama. Its strategic location, good infrastructure, port facilities and conveniences make it a ship owner’s haven. Also, the location along established shipping lanes makes it an easy stop off point for tankers, cruise ships and other vessels. Apart from this, the nearest location for obtaining bunkers is Florida, USA.
The bunkers on Grand Bahama are supplied by Shell Marine Products. Any grade marine fuel oil can be delivered on demand from 180cst to 500cst, also LSFO and MGO.
3 Tips for saving time and money
1. Have the vessel cleared with the authorities just prior to the delivery, this will reduce the customs overtime charges that would be incurred if the vessel was cleared days in advance of the actually delivery.
2. Make sure that your agent efficiently coordinates the port call as keeping all parties well informed about the vessel’s schedule results in a timely delivery.
3. When possible ensure that the vessel arrives as per the advised schedule, if it doesn’t the bunker supplier will move on to other vessel(s) on its schedule before returning to your vessel which can result in some very lengthy delays.
The role of your ships agent during a bunker call
An agent should contact the bunker supplier to confirm that the stem was received in good order. An agent stays in contact with the vessel with regard to its ETA to inform all parties concerned. An agent should also keep the vessel advise of the bunker delivery schedule prior to and once the vessel arrives at the port. Once the bunkering is complete an agent ensures the timely collection, dispatch and tracking of the bunker samples to the designated testing labs.
In my next post, I will talk about some specific modes of bunkering available for your vessel and we will look at which one best suit your operational needs.
Do you have any specific questions about your next bunker call? You can ask in the comment box below.
Or Email us at ops@kairosmaritime.com.
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