Port Of Kaumalapau First In U.S. To Use The Innovative ShoreTension Mooring System

Hawai‘i’s interisland freight firm, Young Brothers, has emerged as the first marine transportation firm in the US to effectively install a unique mooring system, mainly designed to enhance safety, security, and efficiency.

The brand-new $1.5 million ShoreTension mooring system was blessed through a ceremony at the Port of Kaumalapau in Lāna‘i.

The technology, which helps keep the barge steady against the dock even during inclement weather, is utilised in global harbours in countries like Peru, New Zealand, and Italy.

Jay Ana, the president of Young Brothers, explained that as the only water carrier to serve Lāna‘i, kuleana is taken seriously to provide safe, reliable, frequent and affordable shipping to this rural community.

This unique mooring system echoes the firm’s dedication to enhancing service reliability for Lāna‘i so it can safely deliver the goods the community depends on despite harsh conditions.

Adverse weather, such as harbour surges, large swells, and high winds, plagues the Port of Kaumalapau, particularly in the winter, and can prevent the Young Brothers crew members from safely unloading/loading cargo from the barge.

When delivery appears impossible, Young Brothers attempts recovery sailings at the firm’s expense to ensure Lānaʻi receives the cargo as soon as safely possible.

The unique mooring system addresses the issue by using four 100-ton bollards and ShoreTension units to help manage tension on mooring lines that hold a barge against the dock during hazardous conditions.

The ShoreTension units use the energy they store from the barge’s movements to adjust the tension on the lines automatically — loosening/tightening — as needed to keep the barge secure against the dock.

The blessing, successfully conducted by Kahu Saul Kahihikolo, welcomed elected leaders, Lāna‘i businesses, and community members to mark the occasion.

Enhancing and modernising the harbours is a crucial priority, said Dreana “Dre” Kalili, the deputy director associated with the Harbors Division—State Department of Transportation.

Kalili appreciated the collaborative and proactive efforts of Young Brothers in implementing the ShoreTension mooring system, as it will help maintain the seamless flow of goods throughout the island chain.

Beyond the ShoreTension system, the Young Brothers continue reinvesting in enhancing services for Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i. In winter this year, the firm will welcome a $10 million barge, Kalohi, to the fleet.

The 286-foot-long vessel allows more deck space and higher cargo capacity, ballastable tech to address altering tidal conditions, and five ramps that enable remarkable flexibility and efficiency in loading and discharging the cargo.

Reference: Marine Link

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