Problems in Ukraine and Russia as sea ice thickens
February 6, 2012
Thickening sea ice, resulting from the particularly low temperatures across Eastern Europe, is causing disruption to shipping across the Black Sea.
While port authorities are working hard to keep shipping lanes open, vessels heading to Eastern Black Sea ports in Russia and Ukraine are experiencing berthing delays, said Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS).
Novorossiysk port in Russia was closed for two days last week due to strong winds and freezing temperatures, and vessels arriving today and over the weekend will have a one or two-day wait to berth.
Harbourmasters in Odessa, Ukraine (pictured), are now demanding a letter of guarantee from owners and operators of non ice-class ships that confirms that they will honour higher port charges arising out of ice-breaking and increased tug deployment.
Kadir Kaya, MD of ISS Turkey, said: “Black Sea shipping is feeling the effects of the European chill, with shipments of oil and other commodities being delayed.
“We are aware of several ships awaiting permission to enter Novorossiysk and of delays caused by slow progress through ice fields across the region.”
Courtesy of IFW
