Port of Sohar upgrades pilot vessels fleet
Sohar Port and Freezone (SOHAR), recently signed an agreement with Svitzer, which is part of the Danish business conglomerate A P Moller, for the upgrade of their pilot vessels fleet and to provide round-theclock operational support for ship movements in and around the rapidly growing port.
The agreement was signed on September 3 at the Sohar Port and Freezone head office. Mark Geilenkirchen, the CEO of Sohar Port and Freezone, signed the agreement on behalf of SOHAR, while Svitzer was represented by Karim Cordahi, Country Manager of Svitzer Oman.
Commenting on the importance of delivering high quality 24hr pilot transfer services to and from seagoing vessels visiting Sohar Port, Mark Geilenkirchen said, “We are proud to join hands with Svitzer, the leading global provider of marine services with over 430 vessels in operation worldwide. Due to the rapid growth in port operations and vessel movements’ year-on-year, the provision of safe and efficient pilot services are a vital link in our operational capability. The main scope of our agreement is for Svitver to supply, man, manage, operate and maintain two Pilot Boats at Sohar Port and Freezone based on a continuous 24 hour operational cycle to ensure a safe and efficient transport for marine pilots. This includes the provision of the pilot boats, boat maintenance and crew manning, whilst strictly adhering to the HSSE and environmental standards in place at Sohar Port and Freezone .”
Modern pilot boats are constructed to withstand heavy seas and are heavily fendered to guard from bumping against 400,000 ton tanker ships.
Karim Cordahi noted, “Svitzer has a global reputation for managing pilot boats with exceptional seakeeping abilities and able to deal with the harshest sea conditions, and we always keep ourselves prepared to assist our clients mitigate the impact of any unforeseen marine circumstance. Together with Sohar Port and Freezone and adhering to only the highest level of safety standards, we aim to provide transport for the pilots from the boats to the vessels, to ensure reliable and timely conveyance.”
With roots stretching back nearly two centuries, Svitzer has provided safety and support at sea through globally renowned operations. A specialist in emergency preparedness & response, wreck removal, and offshore decommissioning, the company boasts a global network to deliver delivering safe, economical and innovative maritime solutions. With over 4,000 employees, a fleet of 430 vessels, an experience of 180 years, and a strong heritage, Svitzer is the global market leader in towage and emergency response.