The process of refuelling vessels is a cornerstone of Gibraltar’s maritime economy and a vital service for ships navigating one of the world’s busiest sea lanes – the Strait of Gibraltar. Situated at the gateway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, the territory offers competitive pricing, reliable supply chains, and efficient turnaround times for all types of bunker fuels, including marine fuel oil (MFO), marine gas oil (MGO), and low-sulphur fuel oils (LSFO).
Strategic Location for Global Shipping
Gibraltar’s position allows vessels on transatlantic, Europe / Asia, and Mediterranean / Africa routes to refuel without deviating significantly from their charted course. This makes it a preferred bunkering port for container ships, bulk carriers, cruise liners, and tankers.
Types of Marine Fuels Available
MH Bland in Gibraltar provides a wide range of fuels that meet IMO 2020 sulphur compliance:
VLSFO (Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil) – ≤0.50% sulphur
LSMGO (Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil) – ≤0.10% sulphur for ECA compliance
HSFO (High Sulphur Fuel Oil) – for vessels with exhaust gas cleaning systems (scrubbers)
Biofuel blends – emerging supply option for sustainability-focused operators
Other fuels: LNG, methanol, and ammonia are not yet widely available but are under consideration as part of Gibraltar’s long-term decarbonisation strategy.
Fuel Delivery Methods
Fuel is supplied primarily via STS (ship-to-ship) transfers from bunker barges at anchor, as well as alongside berthing for smaller vessels. Gibraltar’s protected and deep-water bay and well-coordinated services help to reduce port time and operational delays.
The port can handle large tankers up to VLCC size, with several bunker barges equipped with segregated tanks to supply different grades in a single operation.
Regulatory Compliance & Safety
The Gibraltar Port Authority enforces strict ISGOTT (International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals) standards, MARPOL Annex VI regulations, and local bunkering codes of practice to ensure safe and environmentally compliant operations. Pre-bunkering checklists, SOPEP readiness, and mandatory risk assessments form part of the protocol.
Cost Savings – Example Container Vessel
In June 2024, the MV Horizon, operating the Asia–Europe route, bunkered 2,500 tonnes at Gibraltar during a 9 hour anchorage call. This avoided a 300 nm deviation to Las Palmas, saving an estimated USD $80,000 in fuel costs and an extra 36 hours of voyage time.
Benefits for Ship Operators
Geographical efficiency for major shipping routes
Competitive pricing due to duty-free fuel status
24/7 service availability for rapid turnaround
High-quality fuel testing and sampling in accordance with ISO 8217
Stable political and legal framework for maritime trade
Conclusion
With its advantageous location, regulatory rigor, and competitive supply network, Gibraltar remains a leading bunkering hub in the Western Mediterranean. For shipowners, operators, and charterers, refuelling in Gibraltar can mean reduced costs, minimized route deviations, and reliable compliance with international marine fuel standards.