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Bunker services are of critical importance in today’s world to ensure the uninterrupted continuation of international trade and maritime activities. Also referred to as fuel supply services for ships and yachts, bunker services are an integral part of maritime transportation.
While there are several bunker service providers in Türkiye, İzmir-based Asmira Group stands out as a leading player in the industry with nearly 50 years of experience. In this article, we will explore bunker services and the key aspects that differentiate Asmira Group from others.
What is Bunker? Bunker refers to the fuel used to meet the energy needs of ships. Also known as marine fuel, bunker fuel includes various bunker types such as Fuel Oil, Marine Diesel Oil, and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). Ensuring the proper supply of bunker fuel is vital for maritime vessels, such as ships and yachts, to continue their journeys without interruption and to maintain an unbroken supply chain in global trade. What is the Purpose of Bunker? Bunker fuel provides the necessary energy for ships and yachts to operate and carry out their functions. It is used to power ship and yacht engines, generate energy, and support the operation of other energy-dependent systems on board.
How is the Bunkering Process Carried Out? The bunkering process involves the safe and secure supply of fuel needed by ships and yachts. It begins with the ship’s captain and/or engineers determining the required fuel quantity and placing an order, and it concludes with the issuance of necessary documents once the bunkering process is completed. Throughout the entire process, taking safety and security measures is of critical importance. Bunkering can be carried out using various methods, including fuel transfer from a marine tanker or a land tanker. Additionally, fuel stations located in marinas often serve as refueling points for yachts and smaller vessels.
What is a Land Tanker? A land tanker is a vehicle specifically designed for transporting petroleum derivatives and other liquid products via roadways. These tankers come in various sizes and capacities and play a crucial role in the safe transportation of liquid cargo. In the bunkering process, land tankers are used for fuel supply operations at ports, storage facilities, and directly to ships and yachts. What is a Marine Tanker? A marine tanker is a vessel designed for the transportation of liquid cargo, such as petroleum, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and chemical products, via sea routes. These tankers are large ships, and specifically, bunker tankers are a specialized type of marine tanker designed to supply fuel to ships and yachts. Bunker tankers enable offshore bunkering services, allowing vessels to refuel while at sea.
What Technical Equipment is Required for the Bunkering Process? Although the bunkering process is not overly complex, it requires careful planning. Since it involves the transfer of flammable and explosive substances, specific technical equipment is essential to ensure safety and efficiency.
First, transfer pumps are necessary to move fuel at a controlled speed and pressure during bunkering. Piping systems and specialized connection points are used to ensure seamless and leak-free fuel transfer. Additionally, mass flow meters are required to measure the volume and mass of the transferred fuel accurately. To verify fuel quality, sampling devices are employed.
Heating systems play a crucial role in maintaining fuel density and preventing it from solidifying. Furthermore, pressure regulators are used to control fuel pressure within the system, preventing overload.
In addition, safety equipment such as sealing components, emergency shutdown systems, and fire suppression systems must be in place to ensure the protection of personnel, assets, and the environment throughout the bunkering process.
Who is Asmira Group? Asmira Group is an Izmir-based corporate group that was founded in 1977 by Honorary President Ayhan Aslan. Today, it has grown into a global solution partner in the maritime and logistics sectors. The company began its bunkering operations in 1977 with the purchase of its first marine tanker. At that time, it became the first company to be granted the "port distributor" status by Petrol Ofisi, which was still a state-owned enterprise. The company’s core competencies lie in the maritime and energy sectors, but its recent investments in logistics have also gained prominence. Under the Asmira Energy brand, it manages fuel stations and wholesale fuel sales operations. Meanwhile, through its Miraka brand, it continues to operate as a marine fuel brokerage firm while also maintaining its presence in the petrochemical cargo trade.
Operating under the Asmira Marine brand, the company provides services such as ship and yacht fuel supply, as well as yacht chartering. In 2024, Asmira Marine secured an exclusive agreement with Frauscher Boats, one of the world's most prestigious yacht manufacturers, becoming its first and exclusive distributor in Türkiye. With a strong commitment to sustainability, environmental awareness, and exceptional service, Asmira Group continues to play a pioneering role in the industries it operates in.
Why Should I Choose Asmira Group? Asmira Group stands out in the bunker services sector with its unique advantages. With 22 physical supply points spanning a vast geographical area from Alanya to Gemlik, the company ensures seamless fuel supply to ships and yachts across a significant portion of Turkish territorial waters. Backed by a young and strong fleet consisting of land and marine tankers, Asmira Group offers tailor-made solutions, designed specifically to meet the unique needs of its clients through a boutique service approach.
With over 45 years of experience, Asmira Group has the ability to quickly adapt to changing market conditions and seamlessly integrate technological advancements into its business processes. The company provides customs and duty-free bunker options in compliance with ISO 8217:2017 and EN 590 standards, offering a flexible and uninterrupted 24/7 service experience. Additionally, Asmira Group conducts its bunkering operations under the supervision of two independent inspection firms, ensuring transparency and compliance with world-class safety protocols. With its expert team, cutting-edge technology, and strict adherence to global safety standards, Asmira Group guarantees safe, transparent, and secure operations.
For more details about Asmira Group, its subsidiaries, services, and contact information, visit: www.asmiragroup.com/en/