New international framework for safe STS operations in dry bulk shipping

As the size of vessels increases significantly, port infrastructure is often insufficient, and bulk cargo commercial operations are growing, Ship-to-Ship (STS) transfers outside ports are becoming an increasingly common practice, both for tankers and dry bulk carriers. However, in contrast to tankers, where STS operations have followed established standards and guidelines for decades, the bulk carrier sector does not yet have a commonly accepted framework for STS operations.

At the same time, recent developments in critical maritime routes, such as the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, are intensifying the search for alternative logistics solutions, reinforcing approaches that require cargo transfers between bulk carriers. This further highlights the need for all stakeholders involved to adopt more structured, safe, efficient, and commonly accepted procedures.

In this respect, INTERCARGO took the initiative to draft and publish the first “Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines for Bulk Carriers,” which aims to fill this gap by providing practical guidance for safe and efficient lightering and transloading operations. This new publication, which contributes to shaping the first international guidelines for STS transfers in the dry bulk sector, was developed with the support of DYNAMARINe and was officially presented on 31 March 2026, at a special event held at the Angelicoussis Group amphitheatre.

During the event, the complexity of STS operations was highlighted: the involvement of multiple parties, regional variations, as well as dynamic parameters such as weather conditions, draft, and visibility, which directly affect the risk profile of operations.

The event gathered representatives of ship management companies, insurance companies and P&I Clubs, charterers, and service providers, who exchanged views and experiences, highlighting the usefulness of the new publication in addressing a growing operational reality: the safe and efficient conduct of STS transfers in the dry bulk shipping sector.

The event hosted by INTERCARGO was addressed by its Chairman, Mr John Xylas, who stated that “safety has always been a cornerstone of shipping. However, it is not static; it requires continuous adaptation. This new publication addresses precisely this need, functioning as a practical tool for better understanding the challenges of STS transfers, with its real value being demonstrated through its application.

Subsequently, the Chairman of INTERCARGO’s Technical Committee, Mr Dimitris Monioudis, noted that “changes in cargo flows, particularly towards regions such as Africa, where port infrastructure is still developing, make a clear guidance framework essential. Incidents in recent years clearly demonstrate this necessity.”

Capt. Georgios Kyrkorianos, Commercial Representative / Regional ESG & Quality Assurance Manager of the NYK Group, emphasised that “safety in STS operations starts with the quality of information between the involved parties. When information is provided timely and consistently, operations become safer, faster, and more efficient. Timely and clear communication is essential, especially in view of the expected increase in dry bulk STS activity in Africa.”

On behalf of DYNAMARINe, CEO Dr Alexandros Glykas described the day as “a highly significant milestone for STS operations globally and for INTERCARGO,” noting that the new publication is the result of a coordinated effort by the maritime community. As he stated, “the new guidelines constitute a comprehensive framework for the safe execution of STS operations between bulk carriers, and there is now no excuse for practices that do not meet the required standards.” The message is clear: all STS operations should be conducted in accordance with INTERCARGO’s best practices, and all involved vessels must comply with the framework set by the new guide.

Mr Jacob Damgaard from the Britannia P&I Club stressed that “the existence of a unified framework is critical not only for safety but also commercially, as it creates a common reference point for the industry and strengthens companies’ position.” As he noted, “this effort is not the end, but the beginning of a broader process of enhancing safety and consistency in the sector.”

Representatives of Chartworld Shipping Corporation, Mr Kostas Petrakis (Director of HSQE) and Mr Onnik Chatsikian, stated that “the Guidelines introduce safety, uniformity, and clarity into dry bulk STS operations, strengthening risk management while also providing a clear legal and insurance framework.”

Finally, representatives of Maran Dry Management Inc., Capt. Stamatis Dimitrakis (Operations Manager) and Capt. Panagiotis Nikiteas (HSQE Manager, DPA & CSO) emphasised that “knowledge and information are power, and this is why this publication is particularly important. INTERCARGO’s Guidelines demonstrate that the dry bulk sector can self-regulate, while serving as a reference point that will contribute to meaningful improvements across the entire value chain.”

Also particularly significant were the contributions of Capt. Mehmet Emin Atalay (Oldendorff Carriers) and Mr Tom Fitchew (James Fisher Fendercare), who highlighted the value and important contribution that this Guide is expected to make for bulk carriers.

The discussion was moderated by Mr Panagiotis Korakas, Director of Isalos.net and Head of the Historical Archive of Naftika Chronika.

A video recording of the event will soon be available on INTERCARGO’s YouTube channel.