Success in unchartered waters
Industry Reports by Synergy Media Specialists
The famous Northern Sea Route follows the Russian Arctic coast and connects the Atlantic with the Pacific Ocean. Nordic Bulk Carriers, the first non-Russian operator to use this historic sea route for commercial transit purposes, is confident that the route will create new business opportunities for the entire shipping industry.
Nordic Bulk Carriers managing director and partner Mads Boye Petersen explains that "the Northern Sea Route project reflects our position and strength as a leading operator of modern heavy-ice classed bulk carriers. Our vessel, MV Nordic Barents, initially shipped iron ore from Norway to China in the summer of 2010. By opening this new sea route, we have created opportunities for the entire shipping industry".
Despite the obvious challenges of navigating across the Arctic, in August 2011, Nordic Bulk Carriers took the lead on exploring the Northern Sea Route for a second time and transported 70,000 tons of iron-ore concentrate from Russia to China.
Petersen says: "The vessel we use for the Northern Sea Route is an ice-class 1A ship 75.000 (dwt) and is the only ship classification that the Russian authorities permit for this transit."
While Nordic Bulk Carriers employs a vibrant, young team, the company has a tremendous amount of experience in the shipping industry. Chartering manager Christian Fossing Hansen intends to build on the company's growing reputation, particularly in the Far East, having established a Pacific Desk in the company's headquarters in Copenhagen.
"A desk in the region will enhance presence and co-operation and help us get a thorough understanding of the Asian market," Hansen explains. "All in all, we hope this demonstrates both our commitment to the region and our desire to grow our business with China.