Unprecedented demand for the carriage of containers, exceeding the carriage supply in container ships has prompted charterers to explore the possibility of utilization of bulk carriers for that task. Bulk carriers, in general, are non-cellular vessels compared to container ships.

Carriage of containers in bulk carriers is possible but only after extensive planning, assessment and scrutiny. Operators must liaise with their insurance carriers, Class society of their vessel(s) and corresponding Flag Administration for advice and guidance on the necessary modifications and/or additions to satisfy relevant requirements.

However, the fact that bulk carriers are indeed “not specially designed and fitted for the purpose of carrying containers” combined with the potential need to maximize the intake of containers, creates issues of concern related to the integrity of the vessel’s structure and the cargo itself as well as the safety of the crew and the stevedores.

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In accordance with the Maritime Traffic Safety Law of the People’s Republic of China, Maritime Safety Administration of the PRC (“MSA”) issued a notice on 27^th August 2021 requiring vessels of foreign nationality that fall into below categories to report to Chinese maritime administrations pre-entering the territorial sea of China.

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In our effort to deliver value for our people and business in the occupational health environment and address the needs of Empire’s crewmembers on board the Vessels during this very topical period of Covid-19 pandemic,  the Company has decided to offer and participate in the Initiative of crew onshore Vaccination. All our crew are eligible for vaccination, subject to their consent and willing. The Company has also ensured that a vaccine will be offered and at no cost to the seafarer.

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RightShip has announced that nearly 200 independent chartering organisations have moved to and are currently using its expanded Vetting Criteria, which has attracted new customers and reduced the need for charterers to apply a bespoke criteria to its vetting due to the innovative standardisation tools used in the process.

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