A Journey of Timber: Part 4 – The Captain
The contrast between the serenity of the vast evergreen forests in the Nordics and the bustling and teeming markets of Egypt could hardly be greater. However, the two regions are intimately connected by maritime trade. SOL routinely transport sawn timber from the Baltics, navigating nearly 5,000 nautical miles to reach Alexandria, Egypt, in the Mediterranean Sea. This is A Journey of Timber.
IN THE HEART of the Baltic Sea, M/V TransOsprey cuts through icy waters, bound for Alexandria carrying approximately 26,000 cubic meters of sawn timber. The General Cargo vessel M/V TransOsprey, operated by SOL, is built for flexibility. As a multi-purpose vessel, it can handle everything from bulk goods to oversized project cargo – even a mix of different types on the same voyage. Equipped to call both major hubs and smaller ports, it offers efficient and reliable transport wherever it is needed. With vessels like this, with the highest ice class notation, SOL Breakbulk can maintain reliable year-round service even in the severe winter conditions of the northern Baltic.
The master of the vessel, Captain Vasyl Gorbatyuk, is a seasoned mariner. “I’ve been at sea for 44 years, 22 of those as a master,” he says. M/V TransOsprey has been his on-and-off command since 2018, primarily trading between the Baltic and the Mediterranean. As master, he bears ultimate responsibility for the security and operations onboard, as well as the wellbeing of the crew. This entails overseeing everything from safe navigation in confined and treacherous waters to ensuring proper cargo operations.
VASYL GORBATYUK. PHOTO: PATRIK MALMER, RUBRIK
“We load sawn timber in packages, following instructions from the supercargo,” Vasyl Gorbatyuk says. The supercargo, an officer responsible for overseeing cargo loading and stowage, ensures that every cubic meter is accounted for to optimize loads and that the cargo will stay secure for the duration of the journey.
Navigating global waters comes with its own set of challenges, from severe weather to busy shipping lanes. During winter, this includes traversing the icy waters of the Bay of Bothnia.
“Our vessel has ice class, but without icebreaker assistance, we can’t proceed far in thick ice. Icebreakers know the ice conditions and guide us through better than anyone,” Vasyl Gorbatyuk says.
He emphasizes the close cooperation required with icebreaker captains, especially as his vessel is significantly larger, making navigation through tight areas even more challenging. The ship’s ice class certificate is a badge of resilience, allowing it to push through ice where many vessels would falter. However, working in extreme cold presents unique difficulties, requiring constant communication with icebreakers, officers and crew to ensure everything goes as planned.
Navigating challenges
Ice, however, is just one challenge.
“Sailing from to the Baltics to Alexandria, Egypt takes about 15 days, and during that time we might face fog, storms, and congested areas with fishing vessels,” Vasyl Gorbatyuk says.
The deck cargo, exposed to the elements, requires constant monitoring. “We check the cargo daily, ensuring it remains secure despite the rolling and pitching of the ship,” he says. This vigilance is crucial, especially when navigating through the unpredictable Bay of Biscay.
The camaraderie on board is palpable. Managing a crew of sixteen, Vasyl Gorbatyuk fosters a tight-knit community at sea.
“Our crew is like a family,” he says. “We share meals, enjoy good food prepared by our cook, and stay connected with loved ones via onboard internet. These small comforts make long voyages more bearable.”
This unity is not just about comfort but about resilience. “We are seamen, ready for any challenge,” he says. “Our families await our safe return, and we do our job with that in mind.”
PHOTO: PATRIK MALMER, RUBRIK
Cooperation is key
Whether navigating icy northern waters or docking in the busy port of Alexandria, cooperation with local pilots is key to a safe and efficient voyage. “Even though the ultimate responsibility lies with me, pilots are excellent to work with. Their local knowledge is invaluable,” says Vasyl Gorbatyuk.
The safe and swift unloading of the timber in Alexandria stands as a testament to the teamwork, expertise, and enduring spirit of the crew. SOL’s role in facilitating this complex operation is pivotal, providing the resources and support needed to navigate the intricate journey from the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean. Through its committed crews and robust infrastructure, SOL continues to bridge continents, delivering more than just cargo; it delivers trust and reliability across seas.
PHOTO: PATRIK MALMER, RUBRIK
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