BRITISH TRADER ARRIVAL IN SAKAI
Some 51 days after leaving Trinidad we arrived at last at Sakai, Japan to discharge what remained of our cargo of LNG.
As is the case it, was 0400 when we arrived at the Bay pilot station to pick up the pilot to guide us across Osaka Bay to the actual LNG berth, a distance of some 40 miles, although the clear sky lent itself to an impressive sunrise here is the land of the rising sun.
Once berthed the army of visitor’s descended on the ship. Fortunately the ships agent had pre warned us by sending out an impressive 3 page document listing the expected visitors.
The ships conference room was filled to capacity for the pre discharge meeting, with standing room only for those late to arrive. Every detail of the discharge operation was then covered with both the ship and shore agreeing to the procedures to be followed.
Fortunately much of this had been agreed via email during the voyage across from Trinidad.
One item on the agenda was the ceremony to mark this ships first discharge at Sakai. This was to be attended by 8 representatives from the terminal and 4 from BP who had flown in especially for the occasion.
The ceremony itself took place on the bridge once cargo operation had begun and consisted of an exchange of gifts followed by some short speeches. The terminal was presented with 2 framed pictures of the ship, whilst we received an original ceramic work of art for a local Japanese artist loosely depicting an image of a Tanker.
After the ceremony it was down to the ships lounge for some (non alcoholic) refreshments and friendly talk. It was a long day but the discharge went smoothly and safely with the ship leaving at 1000 the following morning.
Since leaving we have been heading for Ferrol, Spain for our appointment with Dry dock. The opportunity was taken whilst passing Singapore to top up on bunker fuel, provisions and exchange some personnel before heading off again for Spain via the Suez Canal.