GTS offers ship-to-ship transfer services to Malacca Strait traffic
GAC’s ship-to-ship (STS) transfer specialist, Gulf Transfer Services (GTS) now offers a full range of OCIMF-compliant operations to vessels transiting the Malacca Straits, from the Malaysian sea port of Sungai Linggi.
The Linggi International Floating Transhipment Hub represents an excellent location for STS operations, according to GTS General Managing Capt. Ray Taylor. From there, GTS works closely with the harbour operator, TAG Marine, to bring a wide range of expert services to vessels in the sea lanes of one of the world’s busiest seaways.
“GTS is recognised and approved by most oil majors, so by signing an agreement with TAG Marine, we are taking advantage of an ideal opportunity to combine our global reputation with the benefits of a strategic location,” adds Capt. Taylor.
The scheme has the support of the Malaysian Government, and there are ambitions for further development of the port into a recognised STS transhipment location.
Technically ideal
A number of technical characteristics of the area make Sungai Linggi ideal for STS operations, including:
• A designated transfer area of 5.6 x 2.0 miles.
• Water depth ranging from 28 to 30 metres, free from underwater hazards.
• Sheltered and good holding ground with tidal stream less than 2.5 knots.
• Safe distance from navigational hazards.
• Near to established Petronas and Esso terminals.
• Good port and onshore infrastructure, for logistics support.
• Accessible without deviating from active sea lanes in the Malacca Straits superhighway.
• Geographically ideal for lightering VLCCs before they transit the Singapore straights, shorter voyage time from loading ports in the Middle East Gulf.
• Capable of catering for distribution needs of south-east Asia, competing with congested Karimun.
The Linggi International Floating Transhipment Hub represents an excellent location for STS operations, according to GTS General Managing Capt. Ray Taylor. From there, GTS works closely with the harbour operator, TAG Marine, to bring a wide range of expert services to vessels in the sea lanes of one of the world’s busiest seaways.
“GTS is recognised and approved by most oil majors, so by signing an agreement with TAG Marine, we are taking advantage of an ideal opportunity to combine our global reputation with the benefits of a strategic location,” adds Capt. Taylor.
The scheme has the support of the Malaysian Government, and there are ambitions for further development of the port into a recognised STS transhipment location.
Technically ideal
A number of technical characteristics of the area make Sungai Linggi ideal for STS operations, including:
• A designated transfer area of 5.6 x 2.0 miles.
• Water depth ranging from 28 to 30 metres, free from underwater hazards.
• Sheltered and good holding ground with tidal stream less than 2.5 knots.
• Safe distance from navigational hazards.
• Near to established Petronas and Esso terminals.
• Good port and onshore infrastructure, for logistics support.
• Accessible without deviating from active sea lanes in the Malacca Straits superhighway.
• Geographically ideal for lightering VLCCs before they transit the Singapore straights, shorter voyage time from loading ports in the Middle East Gulf.
• Capable of catering for distribution needs of south-east Asia, competing with congested Karimun.