It has been noticed that some local surveyors conducting draught surveys in Egypt tend to use a form consisting of two columns; a left-hand column for initial survey measurements, prior to cargo operations, and a right-hand column for final survey measurements, on completion of cargo operations. Below is an example form that has been signed and stamped by the master before the final draught survey has been performed (ship name, registry and IMO number digitally removed).
The preparation of cargo holds for the next intended carriage is a critical operation which requires careful planning and execution; this article considers a number of legal issues which may arise, including terms commonly used in charterparties to describe the cleanliness of cargo holds, the consequences of failing to comply with such terms, potentially resulting in off-hire claims and damages, and the role of the independent surveyor.
Hold preparation is probably the most vital part of bulk carrier operations; if it is not undertaken properly, it can result in substantial cargo claims, delays, additional cleaning, survey costs and expensive off-hire disputes.
During the initial stages of the voyage, the vessel encountered heavy weather, with spray and seas shipped on deck and all hatch covers over a period of 8 days; this video explores how this affected the maize cargo.
