Anchoring
Provides a safe buffer when berth/tide/operations aren’t immediately available. Anchorage assignment, swing room, and holding times are managed to reduce congestion and risk. Limited services may occur (inspections, minor maintenance) subject to rules and weather. Data: anchorage plan, traffic advisories, metocean updates, and readiness checks for rapid call-in. Purpose is absorbing uncertainty without blocking quays and keeping the ship primed for berth. Success is short, predictable waits with zero anchor-drag or security incidents.
Step 1 Gangway & Security
Controls access (if permitted) via boat transfer and temporary gangway setups. Implements ISPS measures: ID checks, visitor logs, and limited work zones. Weather and sea state determine safe boarding windows. Agent/pilot updates ensure readiness to heave anchor on short notice. Purpose is secure, safe ship access during lay-by. No unauthorized boarding and no incidents define success.
Step 2 Workers’ Assistance
Enables inspections and small-scope maintenance while waiting. Permits and risk assessments control what can be done at anchor. Tasks are chosen to avoid creating dependencies that delay move-in. Records feed the ship’s maintenance and port-call reports. Purpose is productive use of idle time without new risks. Outcome is higher readiness once a berth is available.
Step 3 Cargo Support
Prepares cargo gear, lashings, and documentation ahead of terminal operations. Verifies that stow plans and manifests align with actual onboard status. Checks IMDG segregation and reefer readiness where relevant. Any discrepancies are escalated early to planners/brokers. Purpose is to ensure a clean start for quay operations. Benefit is reduced first-crane delays and rework.
Step 4 Cargo Survey
Conducts independent condition/quantity surveys as required by stakeholders. Surveys may pre-empt disputes or confirm readiness for sensitive cargoes. Results feed insurance, charter party obligations, and terminal planning. Weather windows and launch availability govern timing at anchor. Purpose is objective evidence before handling begins. Outcome is fewer claims and clearer accountability.
Execution Party
Port of Rotterdam Authority
- Assigns anchorage positions, monitors vessel safety and traffic at anchor, ensures compliance with local regulations.
Loodswezen Rotterdam-Rijnmond
- Guides vessels to assigned anchorage areas; advises masters on safe manoeuvring into/out of anchorage zones.
Redwise Maritime Services
- Specialised support (ship delivery, crew transfer) to/from vessels at anchorage, including arranging temporary manning.
Planning Party
Port of Rotterdam Authority
- Anchorage allocation, traffic sequencing, and safety constraints based on port traffic and weather.
Maersk, MSC
- Shipping lines/charterers who request anchorage when berth is not yet available; provide load/unload priorities and stability requirements.
Portbase (Digital Coordination Platform)
- Coordinates anchorage status, updated ETAs, berth planning, and onward notifications via PCS entries.
Data
| Data Source | Description |
|---|---|
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Port Performance — Anchorage
Last update:
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Dashboard of anchorage waiting times to support just-in-time entry.
Version: Free (public)
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Harbour Master Port Map (overview)
Last update:
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Gateway to the interactive map with nautical signposting and areas, including designated anchorages.
Version: Free (public)
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Port-Call Optimisation — Waiting Area
Last update:
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Explains anchorage/drifting area use and capacity updates.
Version: Free (public)
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Netherlands Coastguard — Bunkering at Sea
Last update:
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Conditions for at-anchor/OPL bunkering near Rotterdam.
Version: Free (public)
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KNMI Open Data — Marine & Coastal
Last update:
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Machine-readable forecasts and warnings for coastal/North Sea districts.
Version: Free (public)
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Rijkswaterstaat — Waterinfo
Last update:
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Live water levels, waves, and currents for the Dutch coast and approaches.
Version: Free (public)
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Europlatform (EPL) Metocean Site
Last update:
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Offshore wind/wave observations near Hoek van Holland.
Version: Free (public)
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Noordzeeloket — Anchorage Areas & Policy
Last update:
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National context on anchorage/no-anchoring zones and safety studies.
Version: Free (public)
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Free (public): The content is publicly accessible on the website without login or payment.
