Face to face with Our Partners: what do you enjoy most about working in or with the cruise industry?
Erik de Neef, Chair of the Board, KRVE (Royal Boatmen’s Association Eendracht) and Hans van Driel, Chair of the Rotterdam–Rijnmond Pilotage Service.
Hans van Driel, Pilotage Service
“The appeal of working as a pilot with the cruise industry is twofold: these are large, well-maintained vessels that present their own challenges, such as windage, displacement in restricted waterways, and so on. They are also well equipped with extensive manoeuvring capabilities and highly trained crews. This makes teamwork between pilot and bridge personnel a key factor in navigating safely and efficiently in and out of port. Cruise crews and Rotterdam pilots are fully aware of this professional standard, and together we contribute to the safety and success of the cruise industry.
”People-oriented factor: “The cruise industry, in particular, is well acquainted with – and dependent on – the human factor, and this is evident by the excellent relationship of the pilotage sector with, for example, Cruise Port Rotterdam. Communication lines are short, and we often find each other before an issue even arises. And if things do not go to plan – after all, this is shipping and human work – we always look for solutions together with the other nautical service providers and the Port Authority. That’s the Rotterdam mentality: we focus on what is possible.” My wish for the next 10 years: “I hope the cruise industry will have the space and opportunities to continue playing its pioneering role in the areas of safety and sustainability. And that the societal debate recognises this approach to ensure that space hereto continues to exist. Thanks to investments and innovation, the cruise sector has become safer and more sustainable, and I truly hope this development will continue into the future.”
Erik de Neef, Koninklijke Roeiers Vereeniging Eendracht (KRVE)
“When people think of cruises, they often think of romance and adventure onboard. However, for us it is the ‘cargo’ on these seagoing vessels that makes this work so special. In other words, the passengers embarked on their cruise adventure. When a cruise ship sails into Rotterdam, we are – after the pilot – the first Rotterdammers the guests see after their impressive journey through Europe’s largest port. As KRVE, we moor and unmoor the cruise ships, and we also provide certified staff for Cruise Port Rotterdam’s ‘cruise port captain’ team on the quay where they also assist to connect to shore power.
Personally I’ve been involved since the early days when Cruise Port Rotterdam (CPR) began promoting cruise activity in Rotterdam. Cruise tourism has now become a major industry in and for Rotterdam and its port, and we at KRVE are happy to be part of this. Under the inspiring leadership of CPR, we are committed to this remarkable industry – and that makes our work meaningful. I cannot name just one highlight, because everything we do in this industry makes work rewarding, inspiring and thereto progressive.” People-oriented factor: “The timing of cruise ships is crucial for the onward planning required to ensure that the vessel reaches its next destination on schedule. Together with CPR, we make sure everything is ready. Our planning team tracks the vessel through HAMIS (Harbour Master Information System).
Using this system, the KRVE, alongside the CPR-trained cruise port captains, provides the mooring and unmooring teams with the necessary equipment, positions the vessel, and even forms part of the Cruise Shore Power team responsible for connecting shore power.
Behind the scenes, we have technicians from our shipyard available to resolve any issues with the shore power connection, under the supervision of the Danish manufacturer. CPR, as the party bearing final responsibility, manages the logistics and coordination of everything the cruise ship requires by land and water. It is a major operation involving thousands of passengers, crew members and the team and management of the terminal. A lot happens behind the scenes, so passengers hardly notice any of such. However, behind the scenes it is top-level sport. It’s all about having the wellbeing of passengers at heart, as CPR’s motto goes: “Everything you do, do it with a smile”, and for sure we see this directly reflected in our work too.” My wish for the next 10 years: “The cruise industry is a frontrunner in sustainability within deep-sea shipping.
The propulsion systems of cruise ships are transitioning towards even lower emissions, with the goal of achieving zero emissions. Food waste is processed, water is treated, shore power connections are available – the list goes on. My wish is that the cruise industry continues to lead the way, giving shipping and shipbuilding the opportunity to apply innovation and sustainability goals more broadly. And that cruise passengers can continue to travel safely and enjoyably, while we — together with CPR — remain part of this unique industry from which Rotterdam, the Netherlands and Europe all benefit.”