Yanbu Vessel Moorings: Expanding capacity of port bunkering operations

Mawani (Saudi Port Authority) plans to expand in-port bunkering operations in Yanbu, KSA, to include ship-to-ship transfers via a network of bunker barges operating off-port limits. The study covers requirements for anchoring or buoy mooring of receiving vessels, ship-to-ship mooring operations with the bunker barge, and the bunker transfer operations themselves. Given the area’s sensitivity and numerous coral reefs, an environmental appraisal is crucial to ensure commercial vessels avoid these sensitive regions. 

As an engineering consultant, Ayesa conducted a comprehensive Metocean assessment, analysing wind, waves, and water levels in the specified areas. We performed an in-depth mooring buoy assessment using bathymetry data to identify suitable zones for mooring that minimise environmental impact. Our team developed a detailed navigation chart to ensure safe bunkering areas, highlighting potential issues. We defined maximum draft and tonnage specifications for the mooring zones and developed performance specifications for the mooring buoys. Additionally, we carried out a high-level environmental appraisal to assist in site selection, considering environmental requirements, potential impacts, and mitigation measures. 

Ayesa reviewed the spatial requirements of an anchorage with several adjacent anchorage locations to support a fuel hub strategy. As part of the feasibility study and design for the fuel hub anchorage, we assessed safe vessel navigation and manoeuvring requirements, spatial footprint needs for vessel anchoring, and the environmental impact of a large vessel anchorage to facilitate ship-to-ship bunkering operations. The desktop study resulted in environmental operational limiting conditions and a spatial footprint for the fuel hub anchorage, which were then verified using real-time navigation ship simulations.