Off-Hire Bunker, Hold Condition & 221 Bunker Detective Survey Successfully Completed at Oran Port

On 01 August 2026, the Vals Marine Survey team successfully completed an Off-Hire Bunker Survey, Hold Condition Survey, and 221 Bunker Detective Survey at Oran Port, Algeria.
The survey commenced with a comprehensive operational meeting with the Master to review the vessel’s discharge sequence, terminal procedures, and operational expectations before the physical inspection began.
Our surveyors carried out a detailed inspection of every cargo hold, focusing on:
Cargo hold structural condition
Hold hatch cover integrity
Compression bars and landing areas
Hatch sealing rubber condition
Signs of deformation, damages, or potential water ingress risks
Overall cleanliness and suitability of each hold
Following the hold inspections, the bunker verification process was conducted. Final soundings of all fuel tanks were carefully performed and compared with the vessel’s declared bunker figures and engine log records.
During the verification process, our surveyor identified a quantity of hidden bunker that differed from the officially declared figures based on technical calculations and logbook comparisons. After documenting the findings, the necessary operational actions were immediately initiated in coordination with the relevant stakeholders.
In today’s shipping industry, where fuel costs represent one of the largest operational expenses, every metric ton of bunker has become increasingly valuable. Rising fuel prices and global energy market volatility have made accurate bunker verification a critical component of vessel redelivery and charter party compliance.
For this reason, 221 Bunker Detective Survey has become an increasingly important service for shipowners, charterers, operators, and P&I interests seeking transparency and financial protection during bunker transactions.
At Vals Marine Survey, we continuously share our practical field experience through industry meetings and technical panel discussions. Our objective is not only to protect our clients’ interests but also to contribute to the continuous development of bunker investigation practices within the maritime industry.
Baturalp Alkan, General Manager of Vals Marine Survey, has personally conducted numerous operational inspections across Africa and South America, documenting real-life bunker discrepancy cases and presenting verified field experiences during technical conferences and industry panels. Together with the Vals Marine Survey team, he continues to support the advancement of Bunker Detective Survey methodology by sharing practical knowledge, operational case studies, and technical expertise with the global maritime community.