Bad weather triggers severe backlog in Gibraltar - MH Bland

A backlog of 22 vessels has been reported in Gibraltar today, down from 30 vessels on Sunday, according to port agent MH Bland. 

PHOTO: A cruise ship docked in the Port of Gibraltar. Getty Images

Inbound vessel traffic was suspended in Gibraltar on Friday due to bad weather but resumed over the weekend with improved conditions. The port also reported severe congestion last Tuesday, when 24 vessels were waiting for bunkers, MH Bland said.

Suppliers in the port are currently working to clear the backlog of vessels. Calm weather is forecast in Gibraltar over the next few days, which should enable smooth bunkering operations.

Bunker operations are currently allowed at the inner anchorage in Algeciras but delays of around 48 hours are reported for vessels to enter amid rough weather, MH Bland said. Bunkering remains suspended at the Delta anchorage, while operations at the outer port limits are subject to harbour master's discretion, the port agent added. 

In the nearby Ceuta port, bunker operations are proceeding smoothly, said shipping agent Jose Salama & Co. But Ceuta port’s sole bunker barge, the SPABunker Cuarenta’s operations have been suspended, Jose Salama said. Ten vessels are due to arrive for bunkers in Ceuta today, up from seven yesterday, the shipping agent said, adding that two vessels were waiting for bunkers at the anchorage. A supplier is reporting around 8-10 hours of delay.

By Manjula Nair

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