Based on data provided by correspondents Pandi Liquidadores SRL in Argentina, Britannia P&I Club cited a number of scenarios that should be taken into account when one of the ship’s anchors is missing, whilst in Argentina waters.
Firstly, if the ship is arriving to Argentine waters lacking one or more anchors to load at any terminal within the Parana River, the ship should report this to the Coast Guard Authorities when entering Argentine waters.
The ship will then be inspected by the PSC (Port State Control) and, if the ship is arriving in ballast condition, the deficiency will be recorded requesting certain actions described in the PSC form as 99, 40, 50, 70 (i.e. restricted ship operation, to report next port, to confirm whether the flag state has been informed as well as the class society).
The Ship arriving in ballast will not be detained and, in general, she will be authorized to proceed to the roads of the loading port or to the loading terminal located within the Parana River.
However, once the ship reaches the roads of the loading port and she anchors waiting for berth, she will be required by Coast Guard Authorities to be escorted by a tug boat at all times. She will also be required to have a tug once in laden condition to escort the ship from the loading port/terminal up to Recalada Pilot Station (located at Lat 35 06´35´´ S Long 55 57´65´´W in the open River Plate close to the port of Montevideo, Uruguay) as navigation is in restricted waters (navigational channels).
Further, it should be noted that operating in the above manner will be an expensive exercise as tugs will charge a return-to-base rate, most-commonly by the hour. On some occasions the Coast Guard will also require a pilot to remain onboard when at roads.
“Owners should be aware that if they are on the Parana River and an anchor is lost, tug assistance may be required. There have been a number of cases recently where the above has not been clearly communicated and Owners have not informed the Coast Guard promptly,” the Club noted.
