Gibraltar’s low tax regime makes it the cheapest place in the EU for fuel. Most passing yachts pop into Ocean Village to refuel saving up to 40% on the cost elsewhere in Europe.
Fuel Stations in Ocean Village
Thanks to its tax-free status Gibraltar has become the most significant refuelling and bunkering point in the Mediterranean. At present there is a choice of three companies, GibOil, BP and CEPSA. And if you’re thinking of coming in to refuel it’s always best to radio ahead for a spot price for refueling. You can then choose the most competitive offer.
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GIB OIL
Tel : (+350) 200 034 00
GPS Co-ordinates
Lat : 36º 8′ 42″ N
Lon : 05º 4′ 56″ W
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BP
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CEPSA
Tel/Fax : (+350) 200 606 86
Mobile : (+34) 689 771 140
Email : enquiries@cepsagibyachtfuels.com
GPS Co-ordinates
Lat: 36o 08′ 55.15″ N (36.148653)
Lon : 5o 21′ 23.5″ W (-5.356528)
Bunkering
Gibraltar’s bunkering companies can supply all grades of marine fuel, from 30 cSt to 380 cSt to the service standards as set out in the Bunkering Code of Practice. The port has a very long-standing reputation for quality and efficiency.
Ships wanting fuel can be processed either tied up at berth in the harbour or, more commonly, while at anchor in the bay. This way, fuel is taken out on bunker barges—or mini tankers holding upwards of 8,000 tons of fuel. Considering that a super-tanker might need to take on 10,000 tons of fuel to get it around Africa and into Gulf waters, it often takes a couple of visits to fill a ship’s tanks.
It’s also possible that a ship might need a mix of different fuels. To travel in the English Channel, for example, ships must run on low-sulphur fuel to minimise environmental impact. At times, they might need to be bunkered with as many as four different grades of fuel to meet all their needs.
