Can a vessel be moored unmanned?

You may leave a vessel unmanned or only partially manned under the following conditions:

• You have approval from Port Planning (VHF 63 or +32 3 229 71 69) to moor the vessel at the designated berth.
• If the vessel is moored at an operational terminal:
  • You notify the concessionaire
  • You must check in with Port Planning (VHF 63) at least every 12 hours or make proper use of APCS Barge regarding future berth occupancy
• The vessel must be equipped with the necessary navigation lights at night.
• The vessel must be moored in accordance with good seamanship. Daily monitoring is required.
• There must be a contact person who can be reached by telephone 24/7.
• The contact details of this person must be clearly visible at the wheelhouse on the quay side or you can also pass on these contact details by telephone to Port Planning (+32 3 229 71 69).
• In emergencies, someone must be able to be on site within one hour at the latest to move the vessel.
• In the event of high waves due to bad weather conditions, where there is a possibility of sinking or damage to the port infrastructure, someone must always be present for on-site monitoring.
• Nautical supervision must always be provided during loading and unloading activities. This includes, among other things, supervising correct mooring, the seaworthiness and stability of the vessel, the safety of the loading or unloading operation and the correct stowage of the cargo. The supervisor must always be in the vicinity of the vessel, have an overview of the loading and unloading activities and take the necessary measures to prevent accidents.
• Masters of moored tankers and lightering vessels must always ensure that there are sufficient qualified persons on board to take appropriate safety measures.