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Aegean News 

T H E Q U A R T E R L Y M A G A Z I N E O F A E G E A N 

AUTUMN 2012 

Interview 

Kostis 

Moussouroulis 

Minister of Shipping, 

Maritime Affairs 

and the Aegean 

Aegean Marine 

Petroleum 

Aegean and Sinopec 

Cooperation in 

Marine Lubricants 

Aegean 

Shipping 

Newbuilding 

Orders 

Plus 

Flows & Currents 

Travel with Aegean 

Strategic Cooperation 

of Aegean in 

Barcelona

Community. An Aegean foundation. 

At the heart of business lies relationships—between 

buyer and seller, supplier and producer, banker and 

lawyer. As we expand our relationships, our networks 

grow and we form communities, large or small, that 

form the backbone of our daily activities. 

The global shipping community, for instance, has 

common interests and works toward mutual advances on its behalf. Likewise, 

we all form communities based on shared concerns, backgrounds, or goals. 

Aegean has been building communities since it began. Certainly, at the international 

level, Aegean is a leading member of the shipping fraternity. But at 

the local level, Aegean understands the need to build communities that serve a 

wide variety of human needs and interests. 

For instance, a recent initiative to clean the seafront near Aegean’s Asproporgos 

installations brought together company volunteers and local residents to care 

for their common resource—the local waterfront. In Panama, Aegean initiated 

a program to host a number of students from the local university, providing internships 

that promote on-the-job training and responsible business practices. 

Beyond business, Aegean encourages the continuation of Pontian culture in 

Greece, recognizing the immense contribution that the Greeks from the Black 

Sea region have made in building and sustaining the values of hard work, family, 

and perseverance. 

Another community Aegean recognizes for its key role in society is the sports 

community—in building character, team spirit, and the competitive edge. 

And as Aegean begins operation of its 20 th bunker station worldwide, in 

Barcelona, Spain, the company expands even more its global bunkering community, 

embracing a new culture on the Iberian peninsula. 

Aegean is hard at work creating a community of retail gas stations, bunkering 

stations, and crews on ships around the world. By promoting community 

values, team spirit, and common interests, Aegean communities build greater 

value for all stakeholders—employees, customers, business partners, and 

shareholders. Relationships worth preserving. 

editorial 

Raymond Matera 

Publisher 

Aegean 

Core Activities 

Retail 

à AEGEAN OIL has established a gas station 

network throughout Greece, and is 

one of the fastest growing companies 

in the retail market. AEGEAN’S gasoline 

market share in Greece is 8%. 


à AEGEAN SHIPPING manages a fleet of 

tankers, ranging from 3,500DWT to 

100,000 DWT, that transfers and delivers 

oil to our clients throughout the world. All 

ships meet ISM standards. 

Bunkering 

à In Piraeus, Patras, Gibraltar, Amsterdam- 

Rotterdam-Antwerp, Fujairah, Jamaica, 

Singapore, Trinidad & Tobago, Portland 

UK, Vancouver, Montreal, Mexico, Tangiers, 

Tema in Ghana, Las Palmas and Tenerife, 

Panama, and Hong Kong, AEGEAN MARINE 

PETROLEUM is a leader in providing the 

best bunkering services available. AEGEAN 

MARINE PETROLEUM is the market leader 

in bunkering. 

Agency Services 

à Ships from around the world rely on AEGE- 

AN AGENCY services at Piraeus, Gibraltar, 

and Jamaica, from loading and discharging, 

to spare parts and supplies. 

Lubricants 

à AEGEAN OIL produces and markets high 

performance lubricants for vehicles and 

industrial use, under the AEGEAN brand. 

AEGEAN MARINE PETROLEUM trades and 

supplies lubricants for the marine market 

under the ALFA brand. 

AUTUMN 2012 AEGEAN NEWS

You're on the move. So are we. 

Get Aegean News wherever you are. 

Aegean News iPad version 

is now available at the app store. 

Enhanced with video, more photos, 

and interactive content! 

ANY TIME 

WHERE

AEGEAN 

MARINE 

PETROLEUM 

contents 

04 

Aegean Marine Petroleum and Sinopec 

to Cooperate in Marine Lubricants 

16 

The Minister of Shipping, Maritime Affairs and the 

Aegean talks to Aegean News about the development 

of Greece’s shipping industry 

10 

Aegean Shipping Management ordered 

new tankers from Daesun Shipbuilding 

and Engineering of Korea 

Autumn 2012 

Aegean News is published 

quarterly by AEGEAN 

CODE: 5169 

Publisher & Managing Editor 

Raymond Matera 

DESIGN 

Snack 

Printing and Binding 

Korifi Publications SA 

Owner 

Aegean 

10 Akti Konydli 

185 45, Piraeus, Greece 

Tel: +30 210 458 6000 

Fax: +30 210 458 6241 

E-Mail: info@aegeanoil.gr 

Websites: www.aegeanoil.gr, 

www.ampni.com 

Comments and suggestions 

are welcome. 

Aegean News is free of charge and 

is available, subject to availability, to 

any interested person or organization. 

Please Recycle 

4 AEGEAN UPDATE 

8 FLOWS AND CURRENTS 

Trends and News in the Oil 

and Energy Fields 

10 SHIPPING 

Aegean Newbuilding Orders 

12 AEGEAN MARINE PETROLEUM 

Aegean Aims to Develop Bunkering 

with New clients in the Port of Barcelona 

16 INTERVIEW 

Kostis Moussouroulis 

Minister of Shipping, Maritime Affairs 

and the Aegean 

20 SHIPPING 

Τhe Aegean Fleet: Quality, Safety and Respect 

Toward the Environment 

22 SHIPPING 

Greek Shipping Today 

23 AEGEAN MARINE PETROLEUM 

International Bunkering Conference 

25 STATIONS OF THE MONTH 

• George Tsandirakis (Chrysoula Papadopoulou) 

Aghia Fotia, Sitia 

• Vasiliki Kalaitzi, Orestiada 

26 CHILDREN AND THE 

ENVIRONMENT 

28 MARITIME TRADITION 

Volos: The Port 

29 TRAVEL WITH AEGEAN 

Volos 

30 AEGEAN COLLECTION 

Step Out in Style 


A e g e a n U p d a t e 

Pavlos Ioannidis, Aegean Global Manager, Marine Lubricants; Apostolos Rizakos, Aegean Managing Director; Jiang Yunde, 

Sinopec Lubricants, Vice Chief Executive Officer; Zhang Lianying Sinopec Lubricants, Deputy Director, Technology Dept.; 

Ang Luck Seh, AP Oil, Director; Jia Qingyue, Sinopec Lubricants, Vice Director of Planning Dept.; Spyros Fokas, AMPNI 

General Counsel. 

Aegean and Sinopec Strategic 

Cooperation in Marine Lubricants 

In August 29, 2012, a strategic cooperation was signed between Aegean Marine Petroleum 

and Sinopec Lubricants for the production and distribution of Sinopec’s marine lubricants in 

Greece. 

Aegean has, since 2008, been a global supplier of marine lubricants, with significant knowhow 

in the production and in the supply of marine lubricants, Sinopec Lubricants is a major 

lubricants company in China, where it supplies its lubricants to the Chinese merchant fleet. 

Through this cooperation Aegean will produce and supply Chinese ships in Greek ports on 

behalf of Sinopec. The lubricants will be produced at Aegean’s Aspropyrgos plant (former 

Texaco) with Sinopec’s very high-standard specifications and packaging. 

This cooperation, which will reinforce the production capacity of the plant and of the distribution 

network in Greece, creating new jobs, is the result of the trust the Chinese colossus has in 

Aegean and its human force. 

New Stations 

in Aegean’s 

Retail Network 

The Aegean network continues its growth. 

Listed below are the stations that have 

started displaying the Aegean Logo during 

the past months 

24 PIRAEUS STR., MOSHATO 

SPECIAL PETROL LIQUID FUEL TRADE S.A. 

LEFKADA ISLAND 

CHRISTOFOROS PASHALAKIS 

219 TH KM NATIONAL ROAD 

KORINTH-KALAMATA 

SEA ARFARA 

Pavlos Zervogiannis, Aspropyrgos Supply Chain Manager; Jiang Yunde, Sinopec Lubricants, Vice Chief Executive Officer; 

Pavlos Ioannidis, Global Manager, Aegean Marine Lubricants; Ang Luck Seh, AP Oil, Director; Zhang Lianying, Sinopec 

Lubricants, Deputy Director of Technology Dept.; Jia Qingyue, Sinopec Lubricants, Vice Director of Planning Dept.; Nikos 

Panagopoulos, Aspropyrgos Plant Manager 

Volunteers cleaning the coast of Aspropyrgos 

International Coastal 

Cleanup Day 

September 15, 2012 was declared 

International Coastal Volunteer Cleanup 

Day. Many times in the past Aegean has 

proven its sensitivity regarding environmental 

protection issues, and on this occasion, 

with the participation of its employees, conducted 

a thorough clenaup of the coastal 

area around the pier of its Aspropyrgos 

Installations. The result at the end of the 

cleanup was very impressive and creted a 

sense of cleanness comparable to that of 

organized beaches. We must all participate 

in environment related events that directly 

impact our daily lives and our future! 

AEGEAN NEWS AUTUMN 2012

Aegean and International Maritime University of Panama 

Cooperation 

International Marine University of Panama students during an 

internship at Aegean Panama. 

Signature of Internship program 

On June 14, 2012, Aegean Panama and The International 

Maritime University of Panama (IMUP) signed a cooperation 

agreement to offer students and cadets of the Maritime 

transportation faculty the opportunity to develop their 

knowledge and skills acquired during their career. 

This agreement was signed at the International Maritime 

University of Panama facilities by Engineer Carls Von Lindeman, 

General Manager of Aegean Panamá, and the President 

of the International Maritime University of Panama, 

Engineer Carls von Lindeman introducing students to internship 

program 

Engineer Victor Luna Barahona. 

The main objective of this cooperation agreement is to establish 

with IMUP an internship program that allows students 

to develop a connection between the theoretical knowledge 

acquired at the university and practical application. 

This year Aegean Panamá chose seven students from 

IMUP to conduct their internship, whereby they got the 

opportunity to put in practice their skills within a professional 

and safe occupational environment. 

Annual Oil and Shipping Africa Conference 

The fourth Annual Oil and Shipping Africa Conference 

was held in Accra’s Movenpick Hotel in 

Ghana. Aegean had a dynamic presence since 

it was one of the sponsors and was represented 

by Captain Theofilos Pizanias, Station Manager 

of the local Aegean office in Tema, and by Maria 

Kritikou, Bunkering Sales and Marketing Manager 

for Western Africa and the Canary Islands. 

Approximately 50 delegates particpated, mostly 

suppliers from Western Africa as well as European 

traders. 

During the first day the panel analyzed the local 

market and the οffshore bunkering spots, with 

references made to the competition in the region 

and the problems during the bunkering process. 

Captain Pizanias was one of the speakers and 

analyzed the challenges the company’s barges face on a daily basis. During the second day 

of the conference the focus was on the commencement of low sulphur products sales in the 

region since, beginning August 1, 2012, regulations came into effect that oblige ships sailing 

in the area of North America and the Carribean to use low sulphur fuel. It is possible in the 

future to have a demand for such products for ships also sailing from Western Africa to North 

America. Furthermore, a special reference was made to the issue of piracy, which is on the 

rise, especially in the region of Nigeria. The particpation of Aegean was critical as it is the only 

company in the region with an official bunkering license from the local government. 

Promotional material with the Aegean logo 

Captain Theofilos Pizanias (L) 


A e g e a n U p d a t e 

Aegean News 

iPad App 

Launched 

Aegean executives and young Pontians in front of the P.Tanimanidis’ sculpture at Aegean’s headquarters 

Young Pontians from Elefsina Pontian 

Association Visit Aegean 

A group of twenty five young people from the Pontian Association of MY Elefsina 

paid a courtesy visit to Aegean’s headquarters at 10 Akti Kondyli, in Piraeus. 

CY 

The association’s youth, accompanied by the President Sophia Kosmidou 

CMY 

and other members of the Board, were given a tour of the building and were 

K 

briefed by Aegean’s Human Resources Manager, Andonis Papadakis, and Aegean 

Marine Petroleum’s Manager Grigoris Robolakis. The young people were 

impressed by the “Muddy Dream of Refugees” installation in the shape of lyre, 

a creation of sculptor Panayiotis Tanimanidis, hanging in the entrance of the 

building. They also showed great interest in the bust of Zoras Melissanidis, also 

at the entance close to the building’s foundations, as his memory was and will 

always remain for the Melissanidis family. The visit concluded with a small reception 

on the building’s eighth floor, in the presence of Dimitris Melissanidis, 

who among other things pointed out to the young people the importance of 

studies and of the confidense a young person must have to succeed in life. The 

young Pontians offered Mr. Melissanidis traditional Pontian specialties and 

Aegean offered to each one of them commemorative gifts. 

Logging On 

Customers and associates of Aegean 

may visit the company’s website, www. 

aegeanoil.com, to learn about the company’s 

activities. Bunkering customers 

may register online to conduct business 

and maintain contact with the bunkering 

department at www.ampni.com. 

New Aegean 

Personnel 

The following employees have joined 

the Aegean work force. 

ADMINISTRATION SECRETARY 

Penelope Katsani 

ΑEGEAN SHIPPING MANAGEMENT 

Dimitrios Deligiorgis 

AEGEAN MARINE PETROLEUM 

Chara Fykiri 

Stavros Kalenderidis 

Panagiota Skandami 

AEGEAN BUNKERING SERVICES 

Christos Leivadas 

HEC 

Maria Stamatoyianni 

Nikoleta Stavrakopoulou 

C 

M 

Y 

CM 

You're on the move. 

So are we. 

Get Aegean News wherever you are. 

Readers around the world may now enjoy 

Aegean News on their iPads, on the new 

iPad version of the company’s quarterly 

magazine, recently launched. The iPad 

version of Aegean News is enhanced w ith 

additional editorial material, more photos, 

video and audio. 

According to George Melissanidis, Owner 

at Aegean Shipping Management, “the iPad 

version of Aegean News is the natural next 

step for our magazine, recognized as one of 

the finest magazines in the industry. We are 

pleased to launch the iPad version so that 

our friends, colleagues, and business partners 

around the world may follow Aegean. 

As we expand and establish a presence in 

more locations around the globe, we are 

committed to maintaining a strong relationship 

with all colleagues. The reaction to 

date has been very positive and I expect 

each issue to have content that is interesting 

and valuable, and that provides insight 

into the unique Aegean culture that we have 

established.” 

Aegean News is free and available from 

Apple iTunes. 


Gibraltar 

National Day 

The 1929 Ford A Tourer with which Aegean participated in the Regularity Classic category 

All types of old cars participated in the very successful event 

Aegean Oil Sponsors 

FILPA Circuit Revival 

On Sunday, September 9, 2012, the revival of the 

Tatoi circuit was held at the military airport in Athens. 

The race was organized by FILPA (Friends of 

Old Cars) to celebrate 40 years since its foundation. 

One of the main sponsors of the event was Aegean 

Oil, actively participating with one of the oldest 

race cars, a Ford A Tourer (1929) in the Regularity 

Classic category. Since the last race at Tatoi 

took place in 1983, the revival was truly a celebration 

of the automobile. The event was a great 

success with the participation of 162 cars and 57 

motorcycles in the presence of 7,000 spectators. 

Viewers had the opportunity to admire vintage 

cars in the Regularity Classic category such as 

a Hupmobile R (1920), a Ford Tourer (1929), a 

Rolls Royce 20/25 DHC's (1930), a Mercedes 

Benz of 230 (1937), a Studebaker Champion 

(1950), a Jaguar MKII (1953), a Borg Ward Isabella (1958), and old motorcycles includeing a 

Rudge Whitworth from1928, a BMW R12 from 1935, a New Imperial 46 Standard from 1937, 

an AJS Silver Streak 350 from 1938, and others. 

In the Super Classic category, cars from the decades of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s participated 

which have left their mark in history, including a Porsche 911SC, a Ford GT 40 (1967), a BMW 

2002Ti, and an Alfa Romeo 2000 GT Veloce. 

After the great success of the event FILPA is considering to establish this race as an annual 

event with the participation of foreign teams as well. 

Gibraltar National Day was officially celebrated 

on September 10, as is done every 

year, in commemoration of Gibraltar’s 

first Sovereignty Referendum held in 

1967. In the Referendum the people of 

Gibraltar voted against Spanish rule and 

in favor of remaining under British rule, 

with a self-governing administration. 

The town was painted red and white for 

the day, which commenced with the gathering 

of the public at Casemates Square. 

There, the leaders of the current government 

and opposition gave speeches followed 

by the release of thousands of red 

and white balloons by the newly appointed 

Mayor of Gibraltar. 

The day was full of events, with performances 

by a variety of local talent on 

the stage erected for the celebrations at 

Casemates and concluding with a rock 

concert and an impressive fireworks display 

late in the evening at the Detached 

Mole breakwater. The locals enjoyed the 

celebrations with family and friends, 

indulging in local specialties at the many 

restaurants around the Rock. 

Red and white balloons set free at Casemates Square 


F l o w s a n d C u r r e n t s 

ABUDABI: The course of the pipeline 

Greek Merchant Marine Once Again 

in Qualship 21 

Abu Dhabi Oil Pipeline 

in Operation 

The commencement of operation 

of the oil pipeline from Abu Dhabi 

on July 15 represents a significant 

development in the energy sector. 

The 360-kilometer pipeline can 

transport 1.5 million barrels of crude 

oil per day and its construction cost 

approximately 3 billion U.S. dollars. 

The pipeline bypasses the Strait of 

Hormuz—through which 20% of 

global production is transported— 

and as a result the possibility of 

the Strait’s blockade by Iran, as has 

often been threatened, to affect the 

price of oil, is now weaker. The first 

quantity of oil from the pipeline is 

destined to Pakistan with final destination 

the port of Fujairah in the 

eastern part of the UAE. 

The operation of the pipeline reinforces 

significantly the geostrategic 

meaning of the port of Fujairah, 

where Aegean has an important position 

in the supply of marine fuel. 

Greek flag fleet in American Coast Guard’s Qualship 21 

According to data released on August 21 from the U.S. Coast Guard, Greece is 

again among the Quality Flag States that have met the demanding standards 

to retain the prestigious Qualship 21 award. 

Qualship 21 started in 2001 as an initiative that established a system of quality 

evaluation and the provision of incentives for foreign flag ships reaching 

U.S. ports. With Greece’s participation in Qualship 21, ships with the Greek 

flag will continue to enjoy special privileges when entering American ports, 

while at the same time the high quality level of the Greek flag is reconfirmed. 

Other countries that have qualified for Qualship 21 for 2012 are the Bahamas, 

Cayman Islands, Denmark, France, Hong Kong, Japan, UK, Liberia, Marshal 

Islands, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland. 

Positive Economic Results 

for Thessaloniki Port Authority 

The Port of Thessaloniki 

The financial performance of the Thessaloniki 

Port Authority during the first semester 

of 2012 reflects the potential and positive 

prospects of Thessaloniki’s port. 

Specifically, earnings before taxes during 

that period totaled 12,705, 482 Euros, 

compared with 6,248,973 Euros of the 

same period in 2011 (an increase of 

103.32%), whereas after taxes earnings 

amounted to 10,117,960 Euros, compared 

with 4,909,787 Euros for same period in 

2011 (106.08% increase). The company's 

turnover for the first half of 2012 amounted 

to 27,243,373 Euros compared with 

24,367,349 Euros in the corresponding 

half of 2011, representing an increase of 

11.8%. This change comes primarily from 

the increase in conventional cargo transport 

(72.02% in bulk cargo) and revenues from 

the provision of ISPS security services. 


Total capacity of Greek merchant fleet continues to rise 

Increase in Total Capacity 

of the Greek Merchant Fleet 

According to the Greek Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) the total capacity of the Greek merchant 

fleet (ships 100 gross tons and above) amounted to 44,086,726 tons in July 2012 and registered 

an increase of 2.2% compared with July 2011. However, also according to ELSTAT, 

the Greek merchant fleet (ships 100 gross tons and above) registered a reduction of 3.6%, in 

July 2012, compared with July 2011 and reached 1,968 ships. 

Greek Parliament Ratifies MLC 2006 

On September 6, the Greek Parliament's Standing Committee on Production and 

Trade ratified by majority vote the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006. 

The ratification was approved by all political parties, apart from Chryssi Avgi 

(Golden Dawn). The International Labour Organization (ILO) adopted the 

Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 in February 2006. MLC specifies 

minimum conditions for the health, safety and prosperity of seafarers, shaping 

a legislative framework for the protection of their rights. It is often called the 

‘fourth pillar of maritime legislation’ complementing STCW, SOLAS and MAR- 

POL legislation. 

High ranking for Greek fleet in Paris MoU’s White List 

The Greek Flag 

Remains High 

According to inspections carried out 

within the framework of the Paris 

Memorandum (Paris MoU) on Port State 

Control, and despite the crisis the 

country is facing, the merchant fleet 

under the Greek flag holds one of the 

highest positions in terms of quality. 

Not only did it maintain its position in 

the Paris MoU’s White List but, according 

to the results of inspections carried 

out by PSC at various ports around the 

world in 2011, it registered significant 

improvements. As a result, the Greek 

register holds 10 th position in the Paris 

MoU’s White List, out of a total of 43 

registers, whereas it ranked 12 t h in 

2010. Furthermore, according to a 

recent report by Lloyd's List on the 10 

strongest registers internationally, the 

Greek register ranks sixth worldwide. 

Chinese Shipyard 

Newbuildings Orders 

Slow Down 

According to a recent report by Clarksons Hellas, newbuilding ordering activity has 

been affected by the global economic environment as “volatility, expensive and limited 

finance, and challenging trading conditions are permeating across many shipping 

sectors.” Nevertheless, according to the same report, there has been enough of a 

steady stream of deal flow for the mid-sized shipyards to maintain a level of activity 

in the market. However, 2012 has proved a very challenging year to date for the 

larger capacity shipyards in China and Korea, where facilities and production are optimized 

for larger sized conventional tonnage. 


S h i p p i n g 

Aegean 

Newbuilding Orders 

In continuation of the strategic 

program by Aegean to upgrade and 

increase its fleet, Aegean Shipping 

Management (ASM) S.A. has placed 

orders for up to six new mediumrange 

product tankers at Daesun 

Shipbuilding and Engineering of Korea. 

George Melissanidis, Owner, Aegean Shipping Management with Jae Yong Ahn, President, Daesun Shipbuilding & 

Engineering Co. Ltd. 

Faidon Tomazos, S & P Director, Cass Technava Maritime; Menelaos Ksideris,Technical Manager, Aegean Shipping Management; Ki Chang Kim, Executive Director, Daesun Shipbuilding; Spyros 

Fokas; AMPNI General Counsel;George Melissanidis, Owner, Aegean Shipping Management; Jae Yong Ahn, President of Daesun Shipbuilding; Sara Yiank, Secretary at Cass Technava Maritime; 

Nikos Fistes, Consultant A.S.M; Seo Jeong Hwan,Deputy General Manager, Daesun Shipbuilding; Jung Wook Noh, Assistant Manager, Daesun Shipbuilding 

10 AEGEAN NEWS AUTUMN 2012

Four of the 52,000 dwt tanker 

orders are firm and are scheduled 

for delivery to Aegean 

Shipping Management in early 2014. 

The contracts, which were inked in 

September, also provide for two optional 

vessels. 

According to George Melissanidis, 

owner of Aegean Shipping Management, 

“this is the latest MR third generation 

ECO type design, optimized 

through extensive model tests, to have 

efficient hull lines and propeller optimized 

to achieve a speed of 13.8 knots 

and a fuel consumption of 23.1t/day.” 

The vessels are able to carry a wide 

range of homogeneous and parcel 

cargoes, ranging from Crude Oils and 

Product Oils to full segregated parcel 

cargoes of Chemical Type IMO II. 

The cargo piping system is able 

of load/discharge seven (7) grades 

simultaneously with an independent 

cargo pumping and piping system (1- 

tank, 1-pump system). 

The vessels are to be built to the 

highest notations of LR& GL class. 

LR 

+ 100A1, dEDouble Hull Oil and 

Faidon Tomazos; Dionysia Mathiopoulou, Executive Secretary of Mr. Melissanidis, George Melissanidis; Spyros Fokas 

Chemical Tanker, Ship Type2, CSR, 

ESP, Ship Right (CM, ACS(B), SCM), 

LI, *IWS, SPM4, ETA, + LMC, UMS, 

IGS, COW, ECO (EEDI, IHM, VECS- 

L, P, DIST) 

GL 

+ 100A5, Oil Tanker, Chemical Tanker, 

Ship Type2, CSR, ESP, RSD, CM-PS, 

IW, SPM, +MC, AUT, INERT, EP, VEC 

Mr. Melissanidis notes that the specification 

and design development of the 

vessels are being carried out together 

with Daesun Shipbuilding and Aegean’s 

technical team. This is a team of professionals 

with extensive expertise in the 

field of shipbuilding and the tanker 

industry, and will be responsible for the 

monitoring of the whole project. 

Daesun Shipbuilding and Engineering 

Daesun Shipbuilding and Engineering 

Co., Ltd., of Korea, with a shipbuilding 

experience of 10 years, designs, 

builds, converts, and overhauls 

various types of ocean-going vessels 

for the commercial markets. The 

company's products include container 

ships, bulk carriers, oil tankers, tug 

boats, and fishing boats. Daesun Shipbuilding 

and Engineering also provides 

ship repair service. 

AUTUMN 2012 AEGEAN NEWS 11

Aegean Marine Petroleum 


Aegean Aims to 

Develop Bunkering 

with New Clients 

in the Port of 

Barcelona 

Bυ Jean Jose Metey | Director, Corporate Development 

In the beginning of August, Aegean Marine Petroleum 

announced the signing of a definitive agreement with Meroil, 

a Barcelona-based oil and energy logistics company, to 

secure onshore fuel oil storage capacity in the terminal. 

Meroil tanks 

Aiming to increase sales in 

Barcelona by bringing its 

own clients, Aegean plans to 

establish in Barcelona a new Aegean 

service center and commence physical 

supply bunkering operations in 

Barcelona by the first quarter of 2013. 

The port of Barcelona serves as a 

key transportation hub located along 

major seaborne trade routes, totaling 

approximately 10,000 transits per 

year and generating approximately 

1.2 million metric tons of annual marine 

fuel sales. The port, which also 

benefits from extensive cruise passenger 

travel, is currently undergoing 

a modernization and expansion 

plan headed by the Barcelona Port 

Authority that is expected to substantially 

increase the port's capacity 

upon completion in 2014. 

The onshore fuel oil storage capacity 

secured by Aegean will have 

enough capacity to handle the Barcelona 

bunker market in the years 

to come. Complementing its access 

to this onshore storage in the port of 

Barcelona, Aegean intends to provide 

retail bunkering services to all major 

shipping sectors as well as leading 

cruise lines, in port and at anchorage. 

All grades of Marine Fuel Oil and 

Marine Gas Oil 0.1 % will be available 

at standard ISO specifications. 

Our operation will include major approved 

barge deliveries in port and at 

designated anchorage positions, on a 

24-hour basis, 7 days a week. 



The City 

of Barcelona 

Meroil offices 

Meroil Terminal 

Meroil, which operates the largest Spanish coastline terminal for petroleum products in 

the Port of Barcelona, in addition to other activities, was founded in 1993 as an oil operator 

with the aim of supplying fuel and related products to service stations, distributors, 

industry, and the agriculture sector. 

The construction of the reception and fuel distribution terminal in the Barcelona port in 

2004, and its later extension completed in 2012, has provided Meroil with the second 

largest terminal in Spain, with a surface area of 125,000 m 2 and a storage capacity 

of 990,000 m 3 of fuel distributed among 45 tanks. Meroil has established the largest 

receiving and distributing terminal of petroleum products on the Spanish coastline and 

the second on the Iberian peninsula. It has the most advanced management, quality and 

environmental protection systems available. 

Construction work on the Barcelona Terminal commenced in May 2003 and was completed 

in record time. The first phase was launched in October 2004 and the second 

two years later, in October 2006, with the completion of the present storage capacity 

in 2012 of nearly 1 million tons. 

From left: Jose Maria Massanela, Meloil General Manager; J.J.Metey, AMP Corporate Development Director, Spyros Fokas, 

AMPNI General Counsel 

View of Barcelona 

Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia 

and the second largest city in Spain, 

following Madrid, with a population 

of 1,800,000. The urban area 

of Barcelona extends beyond the 

administrative city limits with a 

population of 5,000,000, being the 

sixth-most populous urban area in 

the European Union after Paris, London, 

the Ruhr, Madrid and Milan. 

Barcelona is today one of the world's 

leading tourist, economic, trade 

fair/exhibition and cultural/sports 

centers, and its influence on commerce, 

education, entertainment, 

media, fashion, science, and the arts 

all contribute to its status as one of 

the world's major global cities. 

Barcelona is a transport hub with 

one of Europe's principal ports, Barcelona 

international airport, which 

handles more than 34 million passengers 

annually, an extensive motorway 

network and also is a highspeed 

rail hub, particularly that 

which is intended to link Spain with 

France and the rest of Europe as the 

second longest in the world. 


The Port of Barcelona 

The Port of Barcelona aims to become 

the leading logistics port of the 

South of Europe and the Mediterranean 

by 2015. 

Since 2000, the Port has generated 

investment to the tune of more than 

3 billion Euros from both the public 

and the private sectors. 

A further 1 billion Euros will be 

invested up to 2014 to complete the 

enlargement efforts of the city’s infrastructure. 

For the period 2000-2014, the Port 

of Barcelona will therefore have attracted 

4 billion Euros in investment 

from the public sector (infrastructure) 

and from the private sector (installations, 

machinery and plant cargo 

handling equipment). 

The port is currently immersed in a 

major enlargement process to increase 

its area and loading capacity. As a prior 

condition for gaining space and performing 

the enlargement, the Spanish 

Ministry of the Environment diverted 

the mouth of the River Llobregat two 

kilometers to the south in 2004. 

This allowed the Port of Barcelona 

to build two fundamental elements of 

the enlargement—the South seawall 

and the extension of the East seawall, 

both of which were completed at the 

end of 2008. These seawalls are defenses 

that generate an area of sheltered 

waters in which to build the loading 

terminals. With the new seawalls, the 

Port of Barcelona has doubled the area 

that was available in 2000, which now 

stands at 1,300 hectares of land. 

The South seawall, which is 4,800 

meters long and has a maximum 

draught of 22 meters, cost 340 million 

The port of Barcelona with Meroil tanks in the background 

Euros, while the works for extending 

the East seawall by 2,025 meters 

totalled 225 million Euros. The sheltering 

works were completed with the 

execution of certain coastal corrective 

measures that involved creating 

a beach south of the diverted river 

course, involving an investment of 26 

million Euros. 

The rail sector was also prominent 

this year, adapting the two large container 

terminals (TCB and TerCat) 

to international rail gauge, making 

Barcelona the first port in the State 

connected to the continent with European 

gauge. 

The cruise sector received a major 

boost during 2011 with the arrival of the 

three largest ships that sail in the Mediterranean 

(Magic Carnival, Norwegian 

Epic and Liberty of the Seas). 


Ι n t e r v i e w 

Kostis Moussouroulis 

Minister of Shipping, Maritime 

Affairs and the Aegean 

Kostis Moussouroulis, Minister of Shipping, Maritime Affairs and the Aegean, talks to Aegean News 

about the Ministry’s plans to reinforce and further develop Greece’s shipping industry. 

How important is shipping to the Greek economy Is there 

or will there be a policy to increase the number of Greekflagged 

vessels 

Our country is a leader in the international shipping 

arena. For half a century it ranks ahead of major shipping 

countries and is recognized as a global shipping power. We 

fully recognize the contribution of Greek shipping, and 

especially of ocean going shipping, since it not only ensures 

international prestige for the country but also produces 

wealth. We can increase this wealth by adjusting, where 

needed, the special legislative framework to the conditions 

prevailing internationally in sea transport. Our goal is the 

qualitative and quantitative improvement of the Greek 

Register as well as the increase of the number of jobs for 

Greek seafarers. To ensure our country’s leading position 

we have chosen three specific initiatives: 

Ministry of Shipping, Maritime Affairs and the Aegean headquarters 

First, the modernization and proper support of the 

Register to reinforce the Greek flag and the attraction of 

maritime foreign exchange. 

Second, the creation of a single, dedicated information 

clearing house, operating 24-hours a day, to serve the 

needs of all shipping stakeholders, eliminate bureaucracy, 

and that will also be used to attract major management and 

commercial fleet development companies. 

Third, the attraction to Greece—through a variety of incentives—of 

companies with services supportive to shipping. 

Studies confirm our country’s deficiencies compared 

with other countries, such as the Netherlands, UK, Norway, 

which have created attractive conditions for their 

maritime industry. I believe that these three actions will 

endow Greek shipping with more competitive services, 

added value to the national product, and will reinforce the 

national economy. 

The ports of Greece are in a period of transition. Please 

describe how you envision Greece’s ports to evolve in the 

next decade. 

To develop port infrastructure and to attract investment, 

we need an integrated national ports policy for the major 

ports, the small regional ports and the port authorities, a 

policy which we will present soon. What I can tell you now 

is this. There will be an alignment with the European ports 

model, through an elaboration of an integrated Strategic 

National Port Policy and with the establishment of a Regulator 

that will ensure the protection of consumers’ rights 

that will deal with the specification of prices and with the 

quality of services by the main port operators. Also, there 

will be clusters that are attractive for investment. Especially 


for the so-called “tourist ports” I would like to emphasize 

the following: The program we are preparing does not provide 

for the sale of port installations to private parties, but 

for concessions, through transparent, international tender 

procedures, of specific activities for investment schemes 

(Greek or international) for a specific period of time. The 

goal is to create installations and services of the highest 

standards. The concession contracts will provide for the 

private investor’s obligation to implement the necessary investment 

in infrastructure for the provision of services that 

exist in international marinas and tourist ports. 

How important is the privatization program for Greece’s 

ports 

As I have explained, it is a very significant development. 

The benefits for every local community from the successful 

outcome of the international tender for their port will 

be multiple and will result from: 

• The increase of the country’s attractiveness as a tourist 

destination and the overall upgrading of the tourism 

product 

• The increase of employment resulting from the operation 

of a marina that will offer integrated services 

• The consumption of products and services by marina users, 

who are expected to be more than they are today 

A key component of growth in Greece in the next decade 

could arise from shipping and the maritime sector. How important 

is putting a new emphasis on maritime education as 

a lever to spur interest in the maritime industry 

The main objective to maintain the size of Greek shipping 

is the creation of the necessary skilled workforce, through 

an educational system that meets the quantitative and 

qualitative staffing needs of Greek ships. In recent years 

our country has experienced an unprecedented economic 

crisis, the results of which are clearly visible in maritime 

education, since the great increase in unemployment created 

the proper conditions for young people to turn to 

the marine profession. Consequently, during the previous 

and the present academic year, there is a trend, which 

is expected to be maintained in the near future years as 

well, to enter marine studies. At the same time, and during 

the same period, employers have repeatedly increased 

the demand for maritime labor. Responding to this need, 

we decided on the entry of an increased number of first 

year students during this academic year. Furthermore, we 

are preparing a scheme for maritime education which is 

currently in the final phase, and which includes—among 

other provisions—the organization and management of 

The Minister of Shipping, Maritime Affairs and the Aegean, Kostis Moussouroulis 

In recent years our country has experienced 

an unprecedented economic crisis, the 

results of which are clearly visible in 

maritime education, since the great increase 

in unemployment created the proper 

conditions for young people to turn to the 

marine profession. 


Ι n t e r v i e w 

Coast Guard vessel on patrol in a Greek island 

maritime education, the modernization of the educational 

program’s infrastructure and of the operations of the Merchant 

Marine Academies. 

The Greek-owned fleet is requesting Greeks with professional 

training, meeting international standards, to staff 

its ships. And it is in this direction we are proceeding. 

We must utilize our competitive advantage 

which is geographical, and also the advantage 

of our island wealth, a wealth unique in the 

world, focusing on nature, our sensitive 

ecosystem, and culture. 

Shipbuilding and ship repair are areas that have seen a 

steep decline in Greece. Is there a chance to revitalize these 

major sectors 

Let me start from the positive aspect of this issue. Greece 

has three competitive advantages. Its maritime tradition, 

the know-how it has developed in ship repair, and a good 

climate. Do not be surprised by the latter. When we paint a 

ship, the result is much better here than in other countries. 

And there are many other similar examples. The negative 

aspects of the issue are obvious to all: In the last thirty years 

the activities of our shipbuilding, construction and ship 

repair zones have shrunk dramatically or have even been 

eliminated in some sectors. This, of course, reflects the 

country’s de-industrialization and does not concern this 

sector alone. The government has recently chosen a National 

Coordinator, Mr. Anastasopoulos, who has initiated 

the necessary steps to submit proposals for improvements 

at all levels of the shipbuilding activity: regarding orders, at 

the level of the European commission where we have certain 

issues pending, and at the level of attracting projects to 

the Greek shipyards. 

What are your plans regarding marine tourism 

Together with the Minister for Tourism, Mrs. Olga Kefaloyianni, 

we have initiated a dialogue with all bodies 

involved in marine tourism, to have proposals submitted 

which will be taken into consideration in the shaping of 


the relevant draft bill that will be presented to Parliament 

for discussion and voting. We must focus on the development 

dimension of marine tourism, in all its aspects. We 

must utilize our competitive advantage, which is geographical, 

and also the advantage of our island wealth, a 

wealth unique in the world, focusing on nature, our sensitive 

ecosystem, and culture. The question is if and how we 

will manage to utilize these assets in order to transform 

the country into a global center for sea tourism, cruises, 

yachting, sailing, and sea excursions, even for inflatable 

boats. And here again we need strategic planning, as well 

as a specific institutional framework. 

How is the organization of the Ministry of Shipping, Maritime 

Affairs and the Aegean evolving and should we expect 

to see changes to its overall operation 

It is widely known that with the establishment of the Ministry 

of Shipping, Maritime Affairs and the Aegean we 

came face to face with an administrative and organizational—please 

allow me to say—abnormity, which we had to 

immediately correct, and this is what we are in the process 

of doing. The Ministry was fragmented in seven other Ministries. 

What is important is that by decision of the Prime 

Minister, Antonis Samaras, shipping has its own home with 

the Coast Guard, and soon we will present a comprehensive 

institutional framework which, when implemented, will allow 

us to correct all defects and irregularities. 

Do you agree that companies such as Aegean, based in 

Greece, play an important role in extending the service 

spectrum of the Greek maritime industry, adding to highlevel 

employment positions, and strengthening the economic 

base of the country 

The development of the Greek shipping industry and economy, 

spearheaded by the shipbuilding industry, Greek merchant 

shipping and marine tourism, is a key priority for the 

Our country has worthy and competent 

businesspeople, with innovative initiatives, 

who can stand competitively in today’s 

business environment, and can contribute to 

this country’s prosperity. 

Ministry of Shipping and the Aegean. We fully support every 

company that offers supportive activities of this development, 

offers jobs to Greeks in such a critical period for 

everyone, and contributes to the reinforcement of the Greek 

economy. Our country has worthy and competent businesspeople, 

with innovative initiatives, who can stand competitively 

in today’s business environment, and can contribute 

to this country’s prosperity. 

Biographical Note 

Kostis Moussouroulis was born in 

Athens in 1963. He studied at the 

Athens University of Economy and 

Business and has postgraduate degrees 

in European economy, public 

administration and international relations 

from the University of Brussels 

(Université libre de Bruxelles-ULB). 

Mr. Moussouroulis has been a Member 

of the Hellenic Parliament since 

2009. He is fluent in French, English, Italian, Spanish. He is 

married to Evridiki Christaki and has three children, Eleni, 

Dimitris and Alexandra. 

1987-2004: Officer of the European Commission. Served 

in the Directorates General of Financial Audit, Research and 

Technology and Regional Policy 

2004-2007: Secretary General for Investment and Development, 

Ministry of Economy and Finance. Responsible for the 

coordination of EU co-financed Operational Programs (CSF and 

NSRF), national representation for issues of regional development 

and cohesion policy and the management of Community 

and national funding for public investments. Also, monitoring 

of private sector investments and state aid (Development law 

and Member of the National Board for Competitiveness and 

Development). 

2006-2008: Member of the Board of Directors of the European 

Investment Bank (EIB). 

2007-2009: Secretary General of the Ministry of Development, 

responsible for Energy and Natural Resources. Member 

of the Board of Directors of the Public Gas Corporation (DEPA 

S.A.), Member of the Energy Committee of the Academy of 

Athens, President of the Committee for the Promotion of Renewable 

Energy Projects, President of the Fuel Supply Crisis 

Management Committee. 



Τhe Fleet of Aegean 

Quality, Safety and Respect to the Environment 

Μ/Τ Milos, the first of the newbuidings, built at Fujian Southeast Shipyard in China 

Aegean Marine Petroleum is a marine fuel logistics company that physically supplies and 

markets refined marine fuel and lubricants to ships. It is listed on the New York Stock Exchange 

(NYSE) and is among the top independent physical suppliers in the world. 

Aegean operates a fleet of 

tankers which consists of 

69 bunkering vessels and 4 

floating storage vessels. All vessels are 

double hull and certified by international 

classification societies. Out of 

its total fleet, 31 vessels are newbuildings, 

built according to the highest 

technical specifications and in full 

compliance with valid international 

regulations for safety and the protection 

of the environment. 

Aegean is active in numerous 

parts of the world (Greece, Gibraltar, 

Las Palmas 7 Tenerife, UK, Belgium, 

Canada, Mexico, Panama, Jamaica, 

Trinidad, Singapore, Hong Kong, 

Fujairah, and Ghana) providing fuel 

and lubricant services to all types 

of ocean-going vessels (oil and gas 

tankers, container ships, dry bulk 

carriers, cruise ships, fishing vessels, 

ferries and even coastal vessels), in 

port or at sea). 

Aegean has a strong management 

team of senior executive officers, 

qualified and competent in all sectors 

related to the general management of 

shipping and bunkering and lubricant 

services. Regarding the sector of 

technical support, it is worth noting 

that ship maintenance is fully supported 

by the company’s electronic 

Planned Maintenance System (PMS), 

approved by the German Register 

(GL), which is closely monitored by 

the ships’ officers with the support of 

Aegean’s Technical Department. 

Aegean, recognizing the participation 

and significant contribution of 

the human factor in the services it 

provides, is committed to the continuous 

improvement of its work 

force through training programs and 

awareness. The company, in its effort 

to secure reliable and excellently 

trained seafarers for its ships, has 

established its own crew manning 

agency “Aegean Crewing Inc.” which 

currently employs more than 2,500 

seafarers. 


The company operates under ISM 

and ISPS Code requirements with a 

Health; Safety; Quality & Environmental 

Management System annually 

audited and verified by Recognized 

Classification Societies and also by 

the respective Flag States of its fleet, 

thus maintaining active all relevant 

Documents of Compliance (DOC) 

and Safety Management and Ship Security 

Certificates (SMCs & ISSCs). 

Furthermore, Aegean is certified 

as per ISO 9001:2008 for its Provision 

of Procurement Services for Marine 

Fuel Oils and Lubricants System, 

and as per ISO14001:2004, the Environmental 

Management System, 

implemented both onboard and in the 

company’s offices. 

The Company’s Management System 

is being regularly vetted by the 

oil majors (ExxonMobil, Shell, others) 

regarding compliance with strict 

management and operation of ship 

demands specified by the oil majors. 

The company’s goals, which signal 

its successful and steady course in the 

international arena, are: 

• Safe and secure operations (Safety 

comes First!) for the protection of 

seafarers, ships and cargo 

• Commitment to environment 

friendly operations – zero tolerance 

to pollution incidents 

• Cost effective, high-standard services 

Aegean’s operational effectiveness 

and logistical reliability are attributable 

to the expertise and experience 

the company has acquired, and also 

to its well trained staff, thus establishing 

its excellence in the global market 

and ensuring strong customer relationships. 

Aegean believes that future growth 

will be achieved not only by increasing 

market share in current locations but 

also by expanding its global network 

for the service of its customers. 

Launch of M/T Patmos, in 2008 at Hyundai Shipyard 

Safe and secure operations, one of Aegean’s primary goals 



Greek Shipping 

Today 

Greece is one of the strongest and most important maritime nations of the world. At a national 

level, Greek merchant shipping is one of the pillars of the national economy, while at a 

European level its contribution is crucial, since more than 90% of external trade and 41% of 

the European Union’s internal trade is transported by sea. 

Rank 

Greek shipping today remains in first place 

internationally, accounting for 15% of total 

global transport capacity. 

It also represents about 20% of world 

transport capacity in the markets of dry and 

liquid cargo, through which the vast majority 

of world trade is carried out, and about 

41% of total European transport capacity. 

The Fleet 

The Greek merchant fleet consists of approximately 

3,760 ships totaling 265 million 

tons DWT and a total tonnage of 156 

million tons. These ships are registered 

under more than 15 flags. 

The fleet under Greek flag consists of approximately 

865 ships. In recent years, 

there has been a reduction in the number of 

ships, but an increase in overall capacity. 

The remainder of Greek-owned fleet totals 

roughly 2,900 ships and about 113 million 

gross tonnage. 

The average age of the fleet has improved 

significantly and today the Greek fleet is 

significantly younger than the global average. 

(About 10 years versus 12 years). 

Contribution to the National Economy 

The contribution of merchant shipping to the national economy consists 

of the individual contributions of oceangoing shipping, coastal shipping 

and ports. Out of the total contribution, 85% is related to ocean going 

shipping and the remaining 15% to coastal shipping and ports. 

The economic impact of shipping on the national economy is estimated 

at 13.5 billion Euros annually. The contribution of shipping represents 

about 6% of GDP (as per 2010 data) and, due to the recession, it is estimated 

that at the end of 2012 it will amount to 7% of GDP. During the 

last 10 years foreign currency of approximately 140 billion Euros has 

entered Greece, which in 2010 prices is about 61% of Greece's GDP. 

Despite the fact that over the last two years foreign currency earnings 

have been limited due to the weaker state of the shipping market, in 

recent years its average was higher than 13.6 billion Euros a year, and 

with an increasing trend. 

Contribution to Employment 

It is estimated that approximately 38,000 to 40,000 persons are directly 

employed in coastal and oceangoing shipping, distributed almost 

equally between ships and land offices. About 30,000 people are employed 

indirectly in support services and another 18,000 are employed 

in other sectors in jobs created in a multiplier fashion by shipping. 

This means that about 90,000 people are employed in the shipping sector, 

meaning that a total of approximately 250,000 people, through 

their respective households, are dependent on shipping. 

Sources 

Ministry of Shipping, Maritime Affairs and the Aegean 

Hellenic Chamber of Shipping 



International 

Bunkering Conference 

BΥ Leonardos Stefanou | Bunker Trader, AMP 

On April 18-20, 2012, the 33 rd International Bunker Conference was held at the 

Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel in Oslo. The event was organized by the BI Norwegian 

Business School. 

Aegean was represented in the conference 

by Tony Vertommen (Managing 

director of Aegean Northwest Europe), 

Martin Olesen (Commercial Manager of Aegean 

Northwest Europe) and Leonardos Stefanou (Bunker 

Trader of Aegean Marine Petroleum SA). 

The IBC takes place every year and focuses 

on the rapid changes within the industry. This 

year’s theme was: ”Increasing Complexity – How 

to Adapt.” 

More than 130 participants from countries 

throughout the world attended the event. The 

panel consisted of physical suppliers, traders, 

brokers, surveyors, lawyers, shipping companies 

and organizations. 

Discussions of note centered on the role of 

the middleman, the new sulphur legislation and 

pertinent environmental issues. Topics such as 

the global economic crisis, credit risk and strong 

competition were also analyzed in depth. 

Tony Vertommen, as a member of the panel 

this year, focused on the difficulties rising from 

the contradictory business relationship between 

supplier, trader and owner. In particular, he described 

the advantages and disadvantages of being 

a physical supplier, taking into consideration 

factors affecting day-to-day business procedures 

such as payment terms, operational constraints, 

communication and ethics. 

The Aegean presence at IBC demonstrates the 

company’s belief that such meetings provide a 

good opportunity to the “players” of the industry 

to update knowledge and enhance expertise 

among shipping community professionals. 


S t a t i o n s o f t h e M o n t h 

The gas station of Mrs. Papadopoulou 

Aegean Stood By My Side 

George Tsandirakis* (Chrysoula Papadopoulou), Aghia Fotia, Sitia Crete 

The village of Aghia Fotia on Crete is located 3 kilometers east of Sitia, on the road to Vai. It 

owes its name to the church of Saint Fotini and the whole area has great archaeological interest. 

The gas station of Mrs. Papadopoulou 

has been located here 

since 1978, when her fatherin-law 

was the gas station owner. In 

2004 her husband took over and who, 

since a young age, had been “trained” 

in the profession next to his father. 

Mrs. Papadopoulou how long have you 

been responsible for running this business 

Ever since my husband took over in 

2004 and onwards I participated in its 

daily functions. Since May 2012 I am 

fully responsible for the gas station. 

Unfortunately, not by choice but by 

necessity, after the tragic loss of my 

husband in a car accident. 

It must have been extremely difficult, 

together with the shock of the sudden 

loss, to have to deal with the changes 

in a ‘given’ course of life. Together 

with the responsibilities—no longer 

shared—of a family, the responsibility 

of keeping a business running. 

I faced a tragic situation. My husband 

stayed in hospital for almost eight 

months. I had almost abandoned the 

station trying to keep up with everything 

else. My husband in the hospital 

and two youngsters at home. In this 

impossible situation my cooperation 

with Aegean proved valuable. 

Please tell us about it. But tell us first 

how and when your cooperation with 

Aegean started. 

We were in cooperation with another 

company and the time had come 

to renew our contract. There was 

great concern on our part since that 

company was very expensive, put a 

lot of pressure on us, and the whole 

relationship was completely impersonal. 

A friend from Athens, who 

knew Αegean, talked to us about the 

company with great enthusiasm. My 

husband made a trip to Athens, asked 

around, heard, talked, saw, and this is 

how it all started at the end of 2009. 

How did your customers react seeing 

this new name 

You know in small places like ours the 

name of the company does not play 

such a leading role. What counts more 

is the name of the gas station owner. Of 

course after a while our customers realized 

the importance of our being an Aegean 

gas station. Besides, the very good 

products and the competitive prices 

allowed us to move differently and the 

benefit was also for our customers. 

Did your cooperation with Aegean measure 

up to your expectations 

Completely. My husband was very 

pleased. And when I lost him I fully 

realized how significant our decision 

to cooperate with Aegean had been. 

This is why I told you before that it is 

a valuable cooperation. The support I 

received from Aegean was way above 

that of a business relationship. 

They really stood by me! 

* As a tribute to her late husband’s memory Mrs 

Papadopoulou asked the reference to the gas station 

under his name. We oblige with pleasure. 


Communicating with People— 

A Significant Motivating Force 

Vasiliki Kalaitzi, Orestiada, Evros 

By coincidence, in this issue of the magazine, the owners of the gas stations we are presenting 

are women. The first by necessity, the second by choice. Both, however, are a shining example 

of the highly competent people who make up the large Aegean family. 

main motive for my choice. Communicating 

with people, which even after 

all these years in the profession, is still a 

significant motivating force. 

When did you cooperation with Αegean 

start 

Many years ago, it must have been in 

1998. Of course I had transactions 

with the company before that, because 

my station was a ‘free station’ and I 

was buying fuel from Aegean as well. 

Ms. Vasiliki Kalitzi, a young 

and very dynamic woman, 

and currently President 

of The Gas Station Owners of Evros, 

has a gas station on 103 Ippokratous 

Street, in Orestiada. 

Since when have you been here Ms. 

Kalaitzi 

I bought this station in 1997. 

Was there a previous involvement with 

the fuel sector 

Before my involvement with this profession 

I had been active in the sector 

of agricultural equipment. In the past 

my father had a gas station, and also 

View of the gas station 

my mother herself was running a gas 

station at the end of the 80s. Even 

today, my mother is actively involved, 

but now in my gas station. 

Well then, your decision was the result 

of these experiences of the past. 

Not really! The real reason is that I 

wanted a job that would comply with 

certain specific conditions that I had set 

as goals, which at the time this particular 

profession seemed to satisfy. Unfortunately, 

most of those conditions were 

no longer valid soon after the opening 

of this gas station. However, there was 

something in this profession that is still 

valid, which for me was probably the 

What made you decide to join the Aegean 

family 

Iakovos Melissanidis. We knew each 

other for a long time, he came here 

once, we talked and he convinced me. 

Did you have any problems in the beginning 

when you joined this specific 

cooperation. How have things evolved 

since then 

I did not have any such problems. In 

this area, sales are more of a personal 

thing and what counts the most is 

who the gas station owner is. Regarding 

the way this cooperation has 

evolved things could not have been 

better. Our cooperation with Aegean 

is very good. As a matter of fact, it is 

so good that soon I will be opening 

up a second gas station with the Aegean 

colors! 


Children and the Environment 

I Protect the Environment-I Safeguard my Future 

By staying informed about what is happening in the world and by passing the information on 

to others we are taking a significant step toward the protection of our planet. 

I BECOME INFORMED - I INFORM OTHERS - I ACT 

Tropical Forests—The Lungs of Planet Earth 

Tropical forests serve as the lungs of our planet because they 

absorb and trap a huge amount of carbon dioxide from the earth’s 

atmosphere and in this way help maintain the natural balance on 

earth. In addition, tropical forests are our planet’s ecosystems with 

the greatest biodiversity. More than 30 million species have their 

habitats in these areas. With their leading role in regulating the climate 

of the entire planet, tropical forests help maintain life not only 

for their inhabitants but for the whole of humanity. 

Tropical forests are located in South America (around the equator), 

North America (between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator), 

Africa (central and west Africa, again around the equator) and Asia 

(Southeast Asia, around the equator). 

Countries in the tropical zone are Venezuela, Colombia, Brazil, 

Bangladesh, Burma, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, 

Nigeria, Cameroon and Congo. 

Over the last 50 years, almost half of the earth's tropical forests 

have been destroyed and the increase of carbon dioxide emissions 

resulting from this destruction is the second largest cause for climate 

change. 

Every 30 minutes an area as large as a football field is deforested 

of trees in the forests of the Amazon and Central America. 


Amazon River 

The Amazon is one of the largest rivers on Earth. It owes its name 

to the Spanish conqueror Francisco de Orellana who, when sailing 

there in 1541-1542, met tribes with women fighters and gave it 

the name ‘River of the Amazons’ (Rio de las Amazonas). Herodotus 

and Diodorus referred to Amazons of Asia and Africa, from whose 

writings Orellana derived the name. 

The Amazon crosses South America from the Andes up to its 

outfall in the Atlantic Ocean. Its total length is 6,840 kilometers. 

The Amazon is also the largest river in the world in terms of volume 

of water. Its average flow is 219,000 cubic meters per second. It is 

estimated that 1/5 of the entire fresh water circulating on the surface 

of the earth is transferred from the Amazon. Its forest is the largest 

lung of the earth and in its region there is a huge biodiversity of plant 

and animal organisms. 


M a r i t i m e T r a d i t i o n 

Volos—The Port 

Volos, the capital of Magnesia Prefecture in the geographical region of Thessaly, has 141,675 

inhabitants. The Port is located within the city’s business area and, through many ups and 

downs over the centuries, remains one of the most important transport centers in Greece and 

the eastern gateway of the European Union. 

According to archaeological 

findings in the region, Volos’ 

first maritime links, which 

were with Macedonia and Thrace, 

started in the late Neolithic period 

and, during the Bronze Age, extended 

to the South Aegean and Crete. During 

the Mycenaean period the most 

important port in the region was 

Pagases where, according to mythology, 

the expedition of the famed Argonauts 

began. In the third century BC, 

close to Pagases, the city of Dimitriada 

was founded, which soon became the 

major port of the Macedonian state. 

From the end of the Byzantine period 

the port was relocated to its present 

location, with its main activities being 

the export of craft products from 

Pelion and cereals from Thessaly. 

In 1881, Volos and the region of 

Magnesia were annexed to the Greek 

state and the Port Commission and 

Port Authority of Volos were established. 

Volos started to develop into 

an important port and infrastructure 

projects commenced that connect 

Volos by road and rail networks to 

the hinterland. Industry started to 

develop and Volos becomes a major 

industrial center. 

In 1939, on the eve of war, Volos 

was the third most important Greek 

port, following Piraeus and Thessaloniki, 

handling 250,000 tons of cargo 

and 50,000 passengers annually. 

During the war the port was severely 

damaged. Reconstruction began in 

1948 with a contract that provided for 

major infrastructure projects and was 

signed between the Port Authority, the 

Ministry of Public Works and AMAG 

(American Mission for Aid to Greece). 

In 1986, Volos was chosen as headquarters 

of the International Research 

Center for Eastern Mediterranean 

Transport (DEKAMM), founded in 

that year under UN auspices. 

Since 1988, the port of Volos holds 

third position among Greek ports in the 

transportation of cargo and is equipped 

with all the required facilities to accommodate 

a wide variety of loads. 

The port of Volos offers ferry connection 

to the Northern Sporades and 

the islands of Northeastern Aegean 

islands and has the facilities to accommodate 

cruise ships. 

Source: Volos Port Authority 

The Port of Volos 

Since 1988, the port of Volos holds third position among 

Greek ports in the transportation of cargo and is equipped 

with all the required facilities to accommodate a wide 

variety of loads 


T r a v e l w i t h A e g e a n 

Volos 

Night view of the coast of Volos 

Volos is the capital of the Prefecture of Magnesia in the region 

of Thessaly. The town is built near the site of ancient Iolkos at 

the foot of Mt. Pelion. 

The region of Volos is one of the oldest inhabited areas in Greece and 

is mentioned in some of the most significant chapters of Greek 

mythology. According to legend, the Centaurs lived on Mt. Pelion. 

The wisest of them, Heron, was the teacher of Asclepius, the father of medicine, 

and of Achilles, the hero of the Illiad. This is the region from where the 

Argonauts commenced their journey which, aside from its mythological 

context, signals the beginning of gold processing in Greece. 

Aegean Gas Stations 

Must Visit 

The Archaeological Museum, founded in 

1909, which features exhibits from the 

prehistoric, Neolithic and Byzantine periods 

The Art Center Giorgio de Chirico, hosting 

regular art exhibitions and a permanent 

collection 

The Folklore Museum of Kitsos Makris, 

which includes unique folk art exhibits 

The Church of the Holy Trinity, with unique 

murals painted by George Gounaropoulos 

The Church of Saints Constantine and Helen, 

built in 1936, whose architecture, combined 

with its position in the coastal area of Volos, 

have made it a reference point for the city 

The Metropolitan Church of St. Nicholas, the 

first church in Volos, designed by architect 

Aristotelis Zachos 

The Entomological Museum, one of a kind 

in Greece and one of the best in the Balkans. 

Includes 35,000 different kinds of insects. 

The Castle of Volos, in the west part of the 

city, built in the mid-ixth century AD. 

The famous small train of Pelion that has 

connected Volos – Milies for almost 70 years 

The Neolithic settlement of Dimini, 5 

kilometers from the city of Volos. Southeast 

of the settlement is the important Mycenaean 

settlement Dimini, which is identified with 

Iolkos, mother home of Jason. 

The Archaeological site of Sesklo, 8 

kilometers from Volos, one of the oldest 

settlements discovered in Europe, first 

inhabited in the mid 7th Century 

The Ancient city of Demetrias, one of the 

greatest cities of antiquity, south of the Gulf 

of Volos, just opposite the modern city 



AEGEAN 

COLLECTION 

Step out in style 

with the Aegean Collection 

Aegean and renowned designer Robbi di Kappa have 

teamed up to design a brand new look for today! The 

Aegean sport line, with its nautical influence, is perfect 

for stepping out in style, in the city, by the sea, or on 

country walks—for him and for her. 

Bundle up or travel light in polos and t-shirts. 

At home, relax in luxurious bathrobes. 

And stash your gear in versatile and stylish Aegean bags. 

Discover the new Aegean look at the Aegean Shop or 

online at www.aegeaneshop.com 

Aegean Shop 

at the Aegean Headquarters— 

10 Akti Kondyli, 18545, Piraeus, Greece 


Aegean Energy for the Future 

Aegean is Greece's most dynamic energy, petroleum, and shipping group. The company has a network of retail gas 

stations throughout Greece, is active in marine fuels and lubricants, and operates a fleet of tankers and barges internationally 

and domestically to transport petroleum and bunkers for its global base of clients. 

Retail Market 

Through its fast-growing network of gas stations, Aegean supplies drivers in Greece with gasoline and automotive 

lubricants. Aegean’s modern, well-maintained gas station network has won the trust of drivers due to the high quality 

products and services it offers at competitive prices. In addition, Aegean directly supplies large industrial clients with 

petroleum products of all grades, owing to the consistency and service of its transactions. 

Bunker Fleet 

NYSE listed Aegean Marine Petroleum Inc., with an exclusively double hull fleet—of which nine ships are newbuildings—is 

the natural supplier of marine fuels at 12 of the most significant ports in the world. Furthermore, with its 

22 newbuildings program in progress and the continuous opening of new stations, it is one of 

the most dynamically developing divisions Of the Aegean Group. 

Bunkering 

Aegean provides one of the most efficient and responsive bunkering services to 

clients worldwide. Its ships never stop sailing and its services are available 24 

hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Aegean operates bunkering stations in Piraeus and Patras, and in Gibraltar, 

Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp, Fujairah, Jamaica, Singapore, Trinidad & 

Tobago, Portland UK, Vancouver and Montreal, Mexico, Tangiers, Tema in 

Ghana, Las Palmas and Tenerife, Panama, ang Hong Kong. All its products 

are ISO 8217 certified. The Company, which is a member of IBIA and is ISO 

9001 certified, is well positioned on the FOBAS White List. 


Aegean's fleet of ships is at the heart of its superior service worldwide. Its vessels 

operate in full compliance with EU and international standards, are all certified 

with the code of safe management ISM and SOLAS and are in complete compliance 

with MARPOL regulations. 

Aegean continually adds to its fleet of ships, which includes large vessels as well as smaller 

capacity vessels. Its fleet transports oil cargoes worldwide on behalf of major oil companies, 

commercial clients, and Aegean customers. 

Lubricants 

Aegean produces and markets high performance lubricants for vehicles and 

industrial use under the Aegean brand and, for the marine market, under the 

ALFA brand. ALFA marine lubricants are certified and approved by the largest 

marine engine manufacturers in the world. 

The resources of our company and our follow–up service create our successful 

relationships and allow Aegean to supply lubricants in more than 550 

ports worldwide. 

Environment-HEC 

The Hellenic Environmental Center collects, transports and processes oil residues 

from ships and land units (industrial, shipyards), while it also manages all 

liquid residues produced by ships. 

In order to carry out its work HEC has the most state-of-the-art equipment, consisting 

of floating separators, a fleet of pollutant-collecting tankers, and well-equipped tank 

trucks. 

HEC acts to protect the marine environment and at the same time contributes significantly to the saving of energy 

with the recycling procedures it uses to transform the reclaimed pollutants into energy resources. 

Trading 

Aegean is dynamically active in the trading of crude oil and petroleum products worldwide. The Trading Department 

is comprised of dedicated and professional individuals who combine high level expertise and a great many years of 

experience in the oil industry. Petroleum products are supplied to a broad spectrum of customers who comprise the 

company's portfolio. Aegean has acquired its credibility from the high quality of the services it provides to suppliers 

and ship owners, a fact that supports the company’s ambitions for the achievement of long-range goals in the energy 

sector worldwide. 

Aegean’s websites 

www.aegeanoil.com 

www.ampni.com

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