Case Study: Our Bunker Detective Surveys (BIS) Helped Client Save Approx USD 1.8 Million in Eastern and Southern Africa

Observater Surveys and Services Group stands as a global authority in marine surveys/ investigations and bunker surveys, renowned for its commitment to precision, professionalism, and ethical excellence. Over a six-month period, we conducted a series of Bunker Detective Surveys across 25 vessels in Eastern and Southern Africa, transforming the operational framework of a major fleet operator.

This engagement demonstrated Observater’s unrivaled expertise in uncovering systemic underreporting practices, protecting the client’s interests, and driving significant financial recovery, all while reinforcing industry-leading standards for compliance and accountability.

The Challenge

The client, a prominent fleet operator, faced recurring issues with bunker discrepancies across its vessels. Repeated audits highlighted patterns of underreporting, raising concerns about financial losses, inefficiencies, and compliance risks.

Key objectives for Observater included:

* Accurately verifying actual bunker quantities on each vessel.
* Documenting instances of underreporting and identifying systemic causes.
* Providing actionable solutions to enhance operational integrity fleet-wide.

Observater’s Comprehensive Approach

1. Precision Measurement at Every Port:
Our surveyors, equipped with advanced tools and unmatched expertise, conducted precise bunker measurements on vessels calling at ports in Maputo, Durban, Beira, Nacala, Djibouti, Mombasa, and Dar es Salaam.

2. Rigorous Record Audits:
Each vessel’s Oil Record Books and Log Books, and systems in place were scrutinized for discrepancies. Observater’s team identified recurring practices such as:

– Misreporting of fuel reserves in secondary or inaccessible tanks.
– Omissions of water contamination in bunker records.
– Falsified entries aimed at concealing actual bunker quantities.

3. Professional Accountability:
Observater’s authoritative presence aboard each vessel created a palpable shift in behavior. Crew members, previously accustomed to lax oversight, exhibited visible apprehension at the prospect of thorough inspection.

4. Consistent Documentation and Reporting:
Every survey was followed by detailed reports that included:

– Actual bunker quantities vs. reported figures.
– Documentation of discrepancies and their operational impact.
– Tailored recommendations for immediate and long-term corrective actions.

Findings and Results

Widespread Underreporting Across the Fleet:
Across all 25 vessels, we discovered an average bunker underreporting of 20 MT per vessel per survey, amounting to a total discrepancy of over +3,000 MT during the six-month operation.

Substantial Financial Recovery:
At an average bunker fuel price of USD 600 per metric ton, Observater’s findings led to USD 1.8 million in recovered fuel value, directly impacting the client’s bottom line.

Enhanced Compliance and Transparency:
By exposing inconsistencies in Oil Record Books and Log Books, Observater helped the client avoid potential regulatory penalties and elevated compliance standards across their fleet.

Operational Culture Shift:
Observater’s meticulous inspections signaled an end to underreporting practices. The crew’s visible unease during surveys underscored the systemic nature of these practices, which were addressed through reinforced accountability measures.

Client Impact

Financial Gains:
The recovery of over 3,000 MT of unreported bunkers translated into immediate cost savings and restored profitability for the client.

Compliance Assurance:
Observater’s interventions ensured that the client met stringent international maritime regulations, mitigating risks to their reputation.

Fleet-Wide Improvements:
Observater’s actionable recommendations led to standardized bunker reporting practices, improved crew training, and the adoption of automated monitoring systems.

Operational Integrity:
With Observater’s involvement, the client established a culture of transparency and accountability, ensuring that discrepancies would no longer jeopardize their operations.

Observater Surveys and Services Group: Setting Global Standards
As a global leader in marine surveys, Observater Surveys and Services Group continues to redefine excellence in the maritime industry. Our work is driven by an unwavering commitment to integrity, precision, and client success.

This six-month engagement is a testament to our ability to address complex challenges, protect client interests, and deliver measurable results on a global scale.

We are specialists in: all types of bunker surveys. From Off/ On hire bunker surveys, BDS (Bunker Detective Survey), BIS (bunker detective surveys), ROB (bunker remaining onboard survey), BQS (Bunker Quantity Survey), Stem Bunker surveys, etc. Office Hours: Monday – Sartuday 08:00 to 17:00 Hrs, with 24/7 Availability for Operations.

For Bunker Surveys In Mombasa and Africa Ports Visit: Observater Marine Surveyors Mombasa/ Africa/ Globally for professional service.

From the Author

“The scope and success of this project underline Observater’s position as a trusted partner in maritime operations. Our work is not just about uncovering discrepancies; it’s about instilling trust, driving change, and ensuring that our clients operate with confidence and integrity. Observater doesn’t just conduct surveys—we elevate industry standards.”

— Eng. Daniel E. IMarEST, Senior Marine Surveyor Contact: daniel.n@observater.com