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Off Port Limits call (OPL) by launch / service boat or helicopter
 If the calling intention of a vessel is just to carry out a crew change or collect some urgent spare parts or provisions, we have the possibility to arrange an Off Port Limit (OPL) call, which in short is that the vessel approaches 3 nautical miles off to the port entrance without stopping, and where our launch remains waiting with the required assistance for immediate supply.
The OPL calls are coordinated by “Las Palmas Traffic” on VHF ch 10, and the Rendez-Vous position is normally 3 nautical miles East from the outer breakwaters green light (Reina Sofia pier). The estimated position is N 28º 07’ – 15º 21’.
This service is very demanded due to the large number of advantages involved:
- Time reduction: The vessel never stops, just reduce speed to allow our launch coming alongside wherefore do not affect vessels time schedule.
- Low cost: As the vessel does not come into port waters, no pilot, nor port dues applicable on this service.
- Upto 22 crew members and 20 tons of provisions/spares can be delivered per launch trip.
 Bunker supply can NOT be served whilst drifting at OPL, as for this vessel needs to remain anchored or berthed.
There are many launches available in the port to cover this service, and are appointed according to the services involved:
ITARA: LOA of 18.54 meters and a beam of 6.0 metres with two independent propellers. She is equipped with seating for 28 passengers for crew transportation, however she can carry many more on deck. She is able to carry upto 20 tons of provisions/stores/oil drums.
MASPALOMAS: LOA 17 metres, also able to carry crew, provisions and oil drums, but she is also fitted to deliver luboil in bulk, with a carriage capability of max 22 minicubes per trip. She has recently upgraded to receive liquid residues (sludge and bilge water).
CHAMAR: LOA 15 metres, and apart from the normal launch deliveries, she is mainly dedicated to the collection of sludge with a carriage capability of maximum 25cbm sludge per trip.
Off Port Limits call (OPL) by helicopter
 We have also possibilities to assist vessel at longer distance from the port via helicopter service. At Las Palmas there are some twin turbine helicopters which mainly used for the offshore sector with crew changes or urgent spare deliveries to oil platforms, rigs or seismic vessels which not approaching enough for launch service assistance.
The helicopters are able to attend at a maximum distance of 100 miles from the island with max carriage capability of 8-10 persons per trip.
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Las Palmas Port 