We had our first port day! I am a big fan of ports and port operations and today did not disappoint. We started our day at the Cyprus Port Authority, the overseer of all Greek Cypriot ports. The largest ports in Cyprus are Limassol and Larnaka, along with the industrial port of Zygi and various oil ports including Larnaka and Dhekelia. After CPA, we learned about DP World, a company involved in logistics, economics, ports, and marine services. This company runs the multipurpose section of Limassol port including domestic cargo, naval vessels, cruise ships, and energy. We also got to talk to a representative from P&O, the marine services provider for Limassol port. P&O handles pilotage, berth planning, towing, mooring, oil spill response, and navigational aid management. Finally, we got to learn about, and tour, Eurogate, the container handling company.

All of these companies are heavily involved in supply chain management. There are five drivers of SCM, and these port-based companies are engaged in location, transportation, and information. Within these drivers, each company has to balance responsiveness and efficiency. We learned at the Cyprus Port Authority that if a ship is delayed docking by an hour, it can cost up to $10,000; port operations running smoothly are important for both efficiency and responsiveness. Today was a great day, and I’m excited to visit another port tomorrow!