Maritime Analysis
Berge-Shari: A Ship's Troubled Journey from Delivery to Immobilization
By VesselRate AI Editor
Jun 21, 2026
The Berge-Shari, a Handysize bulk carrier delivered to Singapore-based Berge Bulk in September 2016, has recently become the center of attention for all the wrong reasons. Initially celebrated as the latest addition to Berge Bulk’s fleet, the vessel has encountered significant hurdles in its operational journey, most notably during its prolonged stay at the port of Annaba, Algeria.
Upon arriving at Annaba on June 27, 2024, with a cargo of 25,000 tons of logs from Argentina, the ship was expected to unload promptly. However, complications arose due to poor cargo stowage and inadequate handling equipment, resulting in the vessel being immobilized for over three months. This delay has led to staggering demurrage costs exceeding 1.2 million dollars. The situation worsened after the vessel's initial destination was changed from Skikda to Annaba, hoping to find a more favorable unloading environment. Yet, the logistical challenges at Annaba, coupled with the aging port infrastructure, resulted in operational setbacks that have frustrated both port authorities and cargo owners.
The Minister of Transport issued strict orders on September 8, 2024, mandating improvements to streamline cargo processing and reduce maritime waiting times. Unfortunately, the port of Annaba has been grappling with serious structural problems, including the inoperability of two of its five main quays, thereby limiting its ability to handle increased trade demands efficiently. This disrepair not only impacts the operations of ships like the Berge-Shari but also threatens the competitive standing of the port in the maritime trade landscape, compelling many clients to look for alternatives.
Adding to its checkered history, the Berge-Shari also faced an incident in 2018 when the vessel was disabled due to a main engine failure while navigating near Orleans Island, Quebec. After experiencing complications that delayed its voyage, the bulk carrier was eventually able to berth in Quebec and continue its journey later that day.
With these episodes in mind, the trajectory of the Berge-Shari highlights the challenges faced by bulk carriers operating amidst deteriorating port infrastructure and operational inefficiencies. The fate of this vessel may reflect larger systemic issues within the maritime industry that need addressing to bolster the competitiveness and reliability of key ports.
Upon arriving at Annaba on June 27, 2024, with a cargo of 25,000 tons of logs from Argentina, the ship was expected to unload promptly. However, complications arose due to poor cargo stowage and inadequate handling equipment, resulting in the vessel being immobilized for over three months. This delay has led to staggering demurrage costs exceeding 1.2 million dollars. The situation worsened after the vessel's initial destination was changed from Skikda to Annaba, hoping to find a more favorable unloading environment. Yet, the logistical challenges at Annaba, coupled with the aging port infrastructure, resulted in operational setbacks that have frustrated both port authorities and cargo owners.
The Minister of Transport issued strict orders on September 8, 2024, mandating improvements to streamline cargo processing and reduce maritime waiting times. Unfortunately, the port of Annaba has been grappling with serious structural problems, including the inoperability of two of its five main quays, thereby limiting its ability to handle increased trade demands efficiently. This disrepair not only impacts the operations of ships like the Berge-Shari but also threatens the competitive standing of the port in the maritime trade landscape, compelling many clients to look for alternatives.
Adding to its checkered history, the Berge-Shari also faced an incident in 2018 when the vessel was disabled due to a main engine failure while navigating near Orleans Island, Quebec. After experiencing complications that delayed its voyage, the bulk carrier was eventually able to berth in Quebec and continue its journey later that day.
With these episodes in mind, the trajectory of the Berge-Shari highlights the challenges faced by bulk carriers operating amidst deteriorating port infrastructure and operational inefficiencies. The fate of this vessel may reflect larger systemic issues within the maritime industry that need addressing to bolster the competitiveness and reliability of key ports.
Based on these news reports:
- Berge Shari Stuck in Annaba Port for Three Months amid Logistical Challenges (2024-10-01)
- Berge Shari Experiences Engine Failure Near Orleans Island, Quebec (2018-04-27)
- Berge Bulk Expands Fleet with Delivery of Fifth Handysize Vessel (2016-09-27)