Ferry transport disruptions have affected both cargo and passenger services across various routes, with significant delays reported at Kuryk port in Kazakhstan and concerning schedule changes for ferries operating to Lancashire.
At Kuryk port, located in the Mangistau region of Kazakhstan, about 1,000 trucks have piled up waiting for ferry services to Azerbaijan. According to the port’s director, Serik Akhmetov, these massive backlogs are attributed to several logistical challenges. “According to statistics, in November and December, the port is closed due to weather conditions about 50% of the time,” Akhmetov remarked, highlighting the severe weather disruptions typical during this season. Adding to the complications, he mentioned how expanded sanctions against Russia have restricted other transport routes, leading to increased truck traffic at Kuryk. “Some products can no longer go through the old routes, so all these trucks have now come to us,” he explained.
The situation has prompted concerted efforts from Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport to alleviate the backlog. "We managed to arrange for all Azerbaijani ferries to be redirected to Mangistau," Akhmetov noted. Previously, ferries were also servicing routes to Turkmenistan, but the urgent need for transport has shifted their focus. This swift maneuver aims to cope with the heightened demand as winter progresses and weather conditions continue to challenge regular ferry operations.
Meanwhile, across the sea, the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has issued warnings to passengers as severe gales threaten to disrupt ferry services bound for Lancashire. The company pointed out, “The 19:45 GMT crossing of the Manxman to Heysham Port, and its overnight return, were 'at risk'.” The anticipated high winds and heavy rain led to adjustments to the service timetable, with the Sunday morning sailing to Belfast pushed back by 11 hours to 18:00, causing travelers considerable inconvenience.
Current forecasts from the Ronaldsway Met Office indicate gusts reaching up to 65mph (105km/h) on Sunday, alongside heavy rain patterns expected throughout the region. A yellow weather warning has been set for severe gales from 03:00 to 23:00 on Sunday, signifying the potential for dangerous sailing conditions. The Steam Packet Company mentioned they would make decisions based on the weather, relying on the captain of the flagship vessel to assess the safety of operations before departure. Updates would be communicated to travelers accordingly.
The accumulation of trucks at Kuryk port and disrupted sailings to Lancashire form part of broader logistical challenges faced by the ferry transport sector as inclement weather and regulatory constraints mount. With winter setting in across these regions, authorities and transport companies are under pressure to navigate the disruptions and provide timely services to meet the demands of both cargo and passengers.
This confluence of factors poses significant challenges to transport efficiency and reliability, especially as cross-border trade remains sensitive to delays and timing shifts. Freight companies and travelers alike are advised to stay updated on travel arrangements and be prepared for unexpected changes to their schedules as these operational hurdles continue.
