Kings Wharf 14-Day Delay
"There was no berth available on 21/Sep since vessel arrived ate and other vessels were occupying the North and South berths," Fiji Ports Terminal manager operation Shone Pereira said.
Tuesday 24 September 2024 | 10:45
The Southern Hemisphere's largest manufacturer of lifejackets, Peformance Flotation Development Fiji Limited in Nabua, suffered a setback of 14 days delay in shipment, because of port congestion. Photo: Leon Lord
A cargo vessel had to suspend its trip to the capital after reports of congestion emerged.
Local shipping agent for Capitaine Tasman recently confirmed the vessel would not dock in Suva because of lack of berthing space.
But late last night, Ports authority said the vessel arrived a day behind schedule.
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"There was no berth available on 21/Sep since vessel arrived ate and other vessels were occupying the North and South berths," Fiji Ports Terminal manager operation Shone Pereira said.
For export operators like Performance Flotation Development, the setback - not the first in as many months - is often met with contempt.
"All inbound goods will be dropped off at Lautoka port and moved on to another ship, Capitaine Magellan, to be brought to Suva," the Nabua-based textile manufacturer said.
Performance Flotation Development managing director Mike Towler did not mince his words over the scenario that unfolded at the wharf.
"This is the sort of s**it we must endure with Fiji Ports," Mr Towler said.
"It's a ******* joke."
Mr Towler's business is the largest manufacturer of life jackets in the South Hemisphere. Local agent, Shipping Services Fiji Limited, said Capitaine Tasman, had omitted Suva on the voyage because of unavailability of berthing, yard congestion and slow productivity of vessel operation.
"All our inbound cargo will be discharged in Lautoka and transferred to Capitaine Magellan for Suva," Shipping Services said.
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