Feature Articles

With a good staple of tugs, fishing boats, barges, ferries, cruise ships and naval and coast guard vessels keeping B.C.’s shipyards busy, it was a good report all round in this snapshot of the shipbuilding and repair industry on Canada’s West Coast.

While researching the Canadian West Coast shipping market, Andrey Bondarenko, Managing Director for Varamar’s Project & General Cargo Division, found a gap. “Varamar offers a service that doesn’t currently exist in the West Coast market,” he said.

By Darryl Anderson, Managing Director, Wave Point Consulting

A number of common themes ran through discussions with terminal operators for this year’s update, none more so than efforts to increase capacities through modernization and operational efficiencies. Aside from the sensible business case made for increasing capacity, gains are also being seen in lowering carbon footprints…

While the National Energy Board (NEB) reconsideration report reached the same conclusion as their original submission — that the project is in the best interests of the country — the report also highlighted issues that will impact the entire shipping industry.

Following a rigorous approval process, community consultations and two years of construction, the AltaGas Ridley Island Propane Export Terminal (RIPET) in Prince Rupert is almost ready for operations. As the first liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) export terminal in Canada, the significance of the opening is not lost on Dan Woznow, Senior Vice President, Energy Exports.

When looking at the many capabilities of AMIX Group, there is an overlapping symmetry that appeals to Tony Marra, Director of Sales. “I like the way we can draw a line all the way through our operations,” he said.

While it may not be the most visible system on a ship, piping systems are undoubtedly one of the most important. Ensuring the integrity of a leak-free piping system will usually focus on the fittings and for that, the worldwide expert — both for product quality and knowledge — is Viega LLC. At the past New Orleans Work Boat Show and with the help of Elwood Ide, Technical Manager, Marine for the West Coast, BC Shipping News was given a first-hand look at what makes Viega’s fittings a notch above.

Since the first shovel hit the ground in 2010 for the new Passenger Terminal at the Port of Nanaimo’s (PON) downtown facilities, there has been a steady growth that is changing the dynamics of the organization’s focus. From helicopters to passenger ferries to disaster relief, the PON is pursuing several light industrial partners/tenants for its 37-acre assembly wharf property that will create an exciting future for the city’s waterfront business.

B.C.’s cruise industry is poised to grow yet again as the popularity of Alaskan itineraries shows no sign of abating. This year’s most notable observation is the significant number of new lines and new ships coming into the market, including some of the largest vessels ever to visit the West Coast.