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Mooring procedures on an LNG vessel are critical for safely securing the vessel at a berth or

terminal. These procedures involve a series of coordinated actions by the vessel's crew and
shore personnel. Here's a detailed outline of typical mooring procedures:

1. Preparation and Briefing: Before mooring operations commence, the vessel's crew
conducts a safety briefing to review the mooring plan, assign roles and responsibilities,
and ensure everyone understands the procedures and safety protocols.

2. Approach: The vessel approaches the designated berth at a slow and controlled speed,
typically under the guidance of tugboats and with assistance from the bridge team.

3. Deploying Mooring Lines: As the vessel approaches the berth, crew members stationed at
various points along the deck prepare mooring lines for deployment. These lines are
attached to bollards or cleats on the vessel and are used to secure the vessel to the
terminal.

4. Communication with Shore Personnel: The vessel's bridge team maintains constant
communication with shore personnel, including tugboat operators and terminal
personnel, to coordinate the approach and ensure safe berthing.

5. Line Handling: Once the vessel is in position alongside the berth, crew members on deck
use winches and capstans to heave in the mooring lines and secure them to the terminal's
bollards or cleats. Tugboats may also assist in holding the vessel in position during this
process.

6. Tensioning Mooring Lines: After the initial attachment, crew members adjust the tension
on the mooring lines to ensure the vessel is securely held against the berth. Proper
tensioning helps to minimize movement and maintain stability during cargo transfer
operations.

7. Fender Deployment: Fenders are deployed between the vessel and the terminal structure
to absorb energy and prevent damage from contact between the two. Crew members
ensure that fenders are properly positioned and inflated to provide adequate protection.

8. Final Checks: Once all mooring lines are secured and fenders are in place, the vessel's crew
conducts final checks to ensure everything is properly set up for cargo transfer operations.
This includes verifying that all connections to shore facilities are secure and that
emergency shutdown systems are functional.

9. Continuous Monitoring: Throughout the mooring process and subsequent cargo transfer
operations, the vessel's crew continuously monitors mooring tensions, weather
conditions, and other factors that may affect the vessel's stability and safety.

10. Post-Mooring Procedures: After cargo transfer operations are completed and the vessel is
ready to depart, mooring lines are released in a controlled manner, and the vessel is
cleared to leave the berth. Crew members stow mooring lines and equipment, and the
vessel resumes its course under the guidance of the bridge team.

Throughout the entire mooring process, clear communication, adherence to procedures, and a
focus on safety are essential to ensure the successful and safe berthing of the LNG vessel.

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