Kaohsiung Bunker Barge Out of Service, Capacity Limited | Mariner News
Kaohsiung Port’s bunkering capacity will face temporary limitations from October 12-17 as CPC Corporation’s bunker barge, Bao Shan No. 2, undergoes unexpected equipment maintenance. The vessel’s scheduled six-day dry-docking will constrain CPC’s ability to supply marine fuels at the major Taiwanese port.
CPC Corporation issued an advisory to customers on Wednesday, stating, “During this period, our bunkering capacity within Kaohsiung Port will be limited.” The firm urged vessels with bunkering requirements during the affected timeframe to make arrangements as early as possible and allow sufficient time for barge scheduling.
The suspension of Bao Shan No. 2 presents an immediate operational challenge for vessels planning to refuel at Kaohsiung, requiring increased lead times and potential flexibility in port call schedules to secure bunker slots. The disruption could impact vessel turnaround times and onward voyage planning for those reliant on CPC’s services.
This temporary constraint on CPC’s operational fleet at Kaohsiung also occurs shortly after the company announced plans last month to begin offering marine biofuel bunkering at the port. While the maintenance pertains to a conventional bunker barge, the incident underscores the broader operational demands and complexities faced by major suppliers as they manage existing bunkering infrastructure while simultaneously introducing new, more intricate fuel offerings. Vessels seeking any bunker solution from CPC, including conventional fuels and inquiries regarding emerging biofuel options, will need to account for heightened scheduling pressures and potentially longer waits during the maintenance period.
