The Ship to Ship transfer operations is the transfer of cargo which cannot be appropriately handled at the port facility between sea going ships positioned alongside each other either while stationary or underway.
Apart from this STS transfer, there could also be lightering operations where a licensed stevedore is to perform the activity of taking goods to or from a larger sea going vessel or a ship to be lighted (discharging ship) via a flat-bottomed open cargo boat or barge when it is being loaded or unloaded.
STS transfer operations will only be approved if it is for Lightering operations, certain cargoes that cannot be handled at the port facility and the transfer of fish during the fishing operation and if in the event the Port Facility is unable to handle this transfers at berth.
Those intending to carry out this activity must complete the application form (provide link) and submit with all the necessary requested documents specified in the application form.