Virtual Port Captaincy – Maximizing Cargo Intake

A vessel calling at New Orleans was preparing to load cargo for discharge at a port with a strict draft limitation of 11.40 meters in salt water. Based on this constraint, the Master initially calculated a conservative stowage plan allowing for 45,170 metric tons of cargo. While this approach ensured compliance with regulatory requirements, it left potential vessel capacity underutilized.

To explore opportunities for optimization, our team was brought in to provide Virtual Port Captain services. Working directly with the Master, our Port Captain reviewed the proposed plan and identified areas for improvement in both load distribution and volume efficiency. The goal was to safely increase the intake without breaching draft, trim, or grain stability limits.

Through iterative revisions and real-time collaboration, the stowage plan was refined to accommodate 49,077.025 metric tons—an increase of over 3,900 metric tons compared to the original estimate. Throughout loading, the Virtual Port Captain remained closely involved, ensuring that every hold was utilized effectively and all regulatory criteria were strictly maintained.

This enhanced cargo intake represented an 8.6% increase, translating into a significant financial gain. At a freight rate of $50 per metric ton, the additional 3,907.025 metric tons generated $195,351 in extra revenue for the client.

By leveraging our Virtual Port Captain service, the client was able to maximize vessel utilization, improve operational efficiency, and realize tangible commercial benefits—all while staying fully compliant with port limitations. This case highlights the strategic value of expert load planning and on-site oversight in high-margin charter operations.