WILLEMSTAD – Bullen Bay is strengthening its position as a maritime and energy hub through the use of double banking, a ship-to-ship operation that allows cargo to be transferred directly between two vessels positioned alongside each other.
The operations demonstrate how Curaçao’s existing maritime infrastructure can be used to accommodate large-scale vessel activities while providing greater flexibility to customers and other partners in the maritime industry.
Bullen Bay
Double banking involves positioning and securing two vessels alongside one another so that cargo can be transferred between them. Such operations require detailed planning and close coordination between maritime professionals and operational teams.
Safety and environmental procedures are also an important part of the process. Vessel positioning, mooring and supervision during cargo transfers must all be carefully coordinated to ensure operations are conducted safely and efficiently.
Bullen Bay offers several physical and infrastructural advantages for these activities. Its water depth allows it to accommodate large vessels, while its sheltered location provides favorable conditions for maritime operations.
The bay also has existing marine infrastructure developed around Curaçao’s long history as a regional energy and shipping center.
By facilitating double banking, Bullen Bay can make more efficient use of that infrastructure while increasing the range and flexibility of services available to vessels and maritime customers.
The operations also underline the broader potential of Bullen Bay as Curaçao seeks to maximize the use of one of its most important industrial and maritime locations.