Our chemical tankers make more than 2,400 port calls every year, but our main customer base is in countries other than the homes of our crew. But no rule without exception: We have recently had cargo deliveries for Mongstad in Norway, and earlier this month, Bow Aquarius was assigned to bring methanol to a local customer in the Philippines.
For our Filipino seafarers aboard Bow Aquarius, this docking was more than just a routine operation. It was a homecoming of sorts, a rare chance to set foot on their native soil in the middle of their busy schedules at sea. The highlight of this trip was undoubtedly the visit from their loved ones.
From shore, colleagues from our Manila office happily took the opportunity to come on board. For some, it was a return to familiar turf as former seafarers; for others, it was the very first time on board a chemical tanker.
“The docking of Bow Aquarius in Calaca presented a unique opportunity for me as a newbie to board an Odfjell vessel, gain firsthand experience and getting to know my seafaring colleagues. This interaction facilitated a better understanding and gave me new insights into Odfjell’s complex operations,” said Communications Assistant Elaine Dico.
Some pictures from the visit, captured by IT Support Administrator Jacob Pascua:
