Page 20 - 2a Edicion

02 – CODIGOS ISM & ISPS, APLICACIÓN Y CASOS REALES

The Captain of the Port (COTP)

A vital authority in service to our nation
by CAP T Andrew E. Tucc I / Former Sector Commander / Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound
A port today is a delightful and diverse—some would say “motley”—collection
of agents, brokers, shippers, labor groups, contractors, government officials,
seafarers, dockworkers, and businesses of every description … not to mention
the boats, barges, ships, military and emergency vessels, docks, piers,
bridges, railroads, pipelines, and other infrastructure. Add to the mix some
residences, non-maritime businesses, parks, and public access areas, and stir
well.

The busiest container port in the United States, the Port of Los Angeles, adjoins the separate Port of Long Beach. Together, these two port complexes
cover nearly 4,300 acres of land and water along 43 miles of waterfront. Trekandshoot | Shutterstock.com
Ports have interests as varied as their elements. They are vital links in global
commerce and a driver of businesses.

They serve strategic military and energy functions while providing services
and dockage for fishing boats and recreational vessels. They are a place of
recreation for coastal residents and transportation for local commuters, while
boasting fragile marine habitats and environmental resources.

What person or organization could possibly monitor, manage, and control all
of these elements? While Coast Guard captains of the port are not responsible
for overall port governance, they do, however, have a vital role in how ports
operate in both steady-state and crisis situations.

The title “captain of the port” commands great respect within the Coast Guard
and across the maritime industry.

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