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GAC Transfer Services S.A and European STS service provider MariFlex have launched 'GAC Transfer Services - Powered by MariFlex' (GTSM) to provide a wider range of services and choice of ship-to-ship (STS) transfer locations across Europe, Asia, the Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean.

The alliance combines GAC's global reach with MariFlex's expertise in a comprehensive range of complementary maritime services, bringing a total of 60 years of experience in ship-to-ship transfers of dry and liquid cargoes such as crude oil, petroleum products and liquefied gas.

"Transferring dry or liquid bulk from ship-to-ship is a highly technical and challenging operation that requires not only specialised skills and equipment, but also rapid mobilisation capability and in-depth experience in dealing with contingency situations", said Ruud Cogels, Managing Director of MariFlex.

"GAC Transfer Services powered by MariFlex (GTSM) has the skills, equipment and network to handle any STS operations safely and seamlessly," added Cogels.

Safety first

Liquid bulk and gas transfer operations will be carried out by GTSM in accordance with the guidelines set out by the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) latest edition and International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) Guidelines, with strict adherence to safety regulations.

More locations

STS transfer operations will be offered from more than ten bases, including Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Flushing in the Netherlands, Gibraltar in Spain, Frederikshavn and Kalundborg in Denmark, Gothenburg in Sweden, Malta, Cyprus, Malaysia, Vietnam, the Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean.

Group Vice President for GAC Solutions Christer Sjödoff said: "With the increased number of bases, GTSM can now respond faster and with greater mobility and flexibility, and operate anywhere and anytime, as required by clients.

"All operations are handled by trained and experienced personnel to ensure safe control. We also provide all necessary equipment such as hoses, fenders and support craft, as well as full back-up services including standby boats, equipment transportation and 24-hour communication."