Crew change is a global challenge, and every shipping company and maritime organization are united in having this on top of the agenda. In Odfjell, we continue working 24/7 to seek solutions in all ports through our own channels and via international organizations. This has been a top priority from day one.
We are in frequent meetings with the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association and with Norwegian authorities, and we work through the renowned international organizations BIMCO and Intertanko, among others.
A complex puzzle
We have had several successes where we have managed to change, but the problem is complex and we continually fight against obstacles such as canceled flights, closed ports, visa logistics, quarantine regulations, etc. To secure crew change, all of the following four keys need to be unlocked:
Changing Philippine crew has virtually been impossible since President Duterte declared lock down. Lining up crew at home for their next assignment has been impossible due to closed medical clinics, closed embassies, closed training centers and closed public offices. And; the quarantine conditions in Manila are reported as overloaded and far from ideal – so much so that even the around 20 cruise vessels currently anchored in Manila cannot get their crew ashore due to overloaded quarantine dormitories. There are presently 14,000 Philippine Overseas Workers who have returned from abroad and are now quarantined in Manila.
Moving forward
We receive positive signals for crew change even if it is moving very slowly. We see that more ports are opening up and flights are resumed. A few days ago, KLM announced that they will start flying to Manila again. Singapore has started to allow crew changes if the vessel stays in port from the time the on-signers arrive at the airport until the flight with the off-signers have departed. We plan to take vessels off hire to facilitate such crew changes. We have also sent Philippine crew to Korea and to Japan. We are especially pleased to note that the Philippines is gradually opening up now. This gives renewed hope that our relentless efforts will succeed.
Unfortunately, it will take a long time to get up to speed when 100,000 on-signing Philippine crew have to go through medicals, secure US and Schengen visa, refresher courses, public offices and all other mandatory documentation.
In this unprecedented situation, please rest assured that Odfjell management and crewing are working day and night to search for opportunities to make sure that we are on top of all possible tracks underway. We are as eager as you to finally say ‘welcome home’ to seafarers on board, and ‘bon voyage’ to seafarers embarking a long awaited journey.
Harald Fotland
COO
