The two-day event was organized by Genting Cruise Lines—a division of Genting Hong Kong comprised of Dream Cruises, Star Cruises and Crystal Cruises—along with the China Maritime Pilots' Association (CMPA), Shenzhen Pilots (SZP) and Hong Kong Pilots Association (HKPA).
Speakers included Chen Ying, deputy director of the Water Transport Bureau of China's Ministry of Transport; Lou He Ru, vice chairman of the Transport Commission of Shenzhen Municipality; Chen Jian Hua, EVP and secretary general of CMPA; Li Guan Hua, chairman of HKPA; and Lim Jiun Yan, SVP of Genting Cruise Lines.
Simulation studies, comparison of Azipod and conventional propulsion
The seminar's discussions covered a wide range of topics including simulation studies, the responsibilities of pilots, comparisons between new cruise ships equipped with Azipods and conventional cruise ships using propellers, and the bridge team setup.
The selection of Shenzhen as the event venue underscored the commitment and desire by Shenzhen Port to establish itself as a major cruise port while also improving its pilotage service standards.
'People-centric' approach
CMPA's Chen said safe cruise pilotage is key to cruise operations, adding that the discussions should be 'people centric' and go hand in hand with China's 'One Belt, One Road' initiatives, requiring pilots to fully understand the capabilities of propulsion devices on megaships, to master the special requirements and precautionary measures for safe entry and exit, to improve the pilots and captains’ skill sets, to strive to improve the service quality of cruise pilotage and enhance the safety of cruise ships in China ports.
HKPA's Li added that with the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou Nansha, Shenzhen Shekou and Hong Kong will do their utmost to provide high-quality and safe pilotage services for mega cruise ships that homeport in the Greater Bay Area.
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