The issues and risks of off-spec bunkers

Ansuman Ghosh, at UK P&I Club, reports on a recent round of disputes concerning off-spec bunkers

The recent spate of disputes has brought into focus the risks of off-spec bunkers and the concerns faced by shipowners and charters alike. Implementing practical steps can help in minimising the financial risks and protect the ships’ interests in dealing with post-delivery stem disputes. In the last year, the industry has seen a significant number of reported bunker quality related engine problems, notably arising from the delivery of fuel supplied in the US Gulf region, particularly in the Houston area. However, the problems have not stopped there, with reported issues extended to fuels supplied in Panama, Singapore and Asia.