Mar 01, 2016
Established in Gibraltar by Marcus Henry Bland in 1810,
MH Bland & Co Ltd has a long and unrivalled history
and tradition in maritime commerce. Today, this heritage
is firmly upheld alongside a vision of the future as the
company’s spheres of activity grow within the marine
and tourism industries.
The present Chairman John A. Gaggero and his brother,
Deputy Chairman George Gaggero along with fellow
Directors, Clive A. Moberley and Ian Penfold have
steered the company through a dynamic development
programme that has seen the expansion of its activities.
No other local company is able to offer the same high
standards or portfolio of in-house expertise and services
expected by today’s customers.
HSSE & QUALITY MANAGEMENT
In order to ensure that our diverse range of assets meet
the high standards expected, the Group operates an
ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management System and as a
fundamental ingredient to our commitment to
self-improvement, employs a full-time HSSE & Quality
Manager who oversees a rigorous programme of
maintenance.
STATEMENT OF QUALITY POLICY
“The MH Bland Group prides itself on the extended
family values that influence the way it does business
and continually strives to remain at the forefront of the
development of the marine and tourism industries in
all Group activities.
As service providers we recognise the dual importance
of our employees and our extensive assets and
equipment. In order to properly care for each we
operate a Quality System that plays a central role in
ensuring that we train our employees and maintain our
equipment to the highest standards required by
regulatory authorities and clients. Furthermore, the
Quality System plays a key role in ensuring that the
service we provide to clients is continually improved.
The Quality System is subject to constant monitoring
and is audited both internally and externally. It
emphasises our commitment to Quality and generates
real value to the Group”.
John A Gaggero
Chairman
MARINE DIVISION
MH Bland Port Agency is the market leader and is central to
the Group’s wider marine interests. We are a member of the
Multiport Ship Agents Network and comply with its stringent
membership codes. The Agency is particularly active in handling
cruise liners. With offi ces in Gibraltar, Algeciras and Ceuta we
are ideally placed to service our clients; whatever their needs or
the location in the Strait of Gibraltar.
MH Bland Marine Services operates a fl eet of harbourcraft, tugs
and barges to deliver supplies and lubricants to vessels calling
at Gibraltar port. Activities include container handling, vehicle
transhipment, bulk cargoes, salvage and the delivery of ships
stores to vessels in the bay.
TOURISM DIVISION
Calypso Tours operates a fl eet of coaches providing excursions
around Gibraltar and Southern Spain and complements the
interests of our Port Agency, Travel Agency, the Cable Car and
Dolphin World excursions.
Dolphin World is the newest acquisition to the MH Bland family
of companies. Dolphin World provides visitors to the Rock with
the opportunity to experience an unforgettable encounter
with the many dolphins that inhabit the Bay of Gibraltar.
The Cable Car is a unique tourist attraction that forms an
integral part of Gibraltar’s tourist infrastructure. The company
built and opened this facility in 1966 and operates a snack bar
and souvenir shop at “The Top of the Rock” station.
MH Bland Travel Services complements the shipping Agency’s
activities in servicing the cruise line industry by specialising in
the sale of cruise holidays within a fully-fl edged I.A.T.A. Travel
Agency. As well as offering a complete range of holiday services,
this highly experienced team manages a successful Cruise Club
for local and expatriate residents of the region.
CONTENTS
4 PORT AGENCY
6 SUPER YACHTS
7 MARINE SERVICES
8 OFF PORT LIMITS
9 GIBRALTAR - GATEWAY TO THE MEDITERRANEAN
10 CALYPSO TOURS
11 DOLPHIN WORLD
12 THE CABLE CAR
14 MH BLAND TRAVEL SERVICES & THE CRUISE CLUB
Company OverviewCompany Overview
Marine D
ivis
ion
4
Three Ports, One TeamThree Ports, One TeamIn order to meet the ever-changing requirements of our
clients, MH Bland now offers a fl exible agency package in
the three principal ports of The Strait.
Under the “Three Ports, One Team” concept, we are able
to service our clients vessels at any one of the three ports
where we now operate our own offi ces. This allows clients
to alter their plans as necessary in the knowledge that our
Agency team will divert the services required to any one
of the three ports nominated. As a leading agent in the
region we have adapted to the Principals’ needs of
effecting all their requirements within the specifi ed time
frame and operate 24hrs a day, every day. This has only
been made possible by the commitment to quality of
service by our dedicated team, which we consider our
most important asset.
PORT AGENCY - GIBRALTAR:The Port of Gibraltar is a key port at the entrance of the
Mediterranean. It has excelled in the bunkering sector
over the last decade.
Gibraltar has numerous bunker suppliers that effect
deliveries both at anchorage and ex-pipe. A wide range
of fuel grades and distillates are available. Barges are
equipped with the latest equipment achieving delivery
rates of up to 1000mt per hr.
We specialise in husbandry and can facilitate all aspects of
the sector for the Principal. Gibraltar and Malaga airports
are conveniently placed for the reception of spares and
transit of personnel. Lubricants, paints, and all types of
ships stores are readily available at competitive rates.
The Immigration authorities provide an extremely
effi cient yet fl exible approach for crews in transit. This
service can be carried out under our supervision in a
speedy manner. MH Bland maintains a competitive edge
over other agents by providing services in-house, thereby
minimising reliance on subcontractors and ensuring a
smooth and fast turnaround in accordance with the
demands of our clients.
PORT AGENCY - ALGECIRAS:MH Bland opened an offi ce in the fast developing port of
Algeciras in 2002. It’s container terminal, ferry links with
North Africa, coal terminal and refi nery have made it one
of the fastest growing ports in Europe, offering a wide
range of services.
Algeciras Port has at its disposal the large anchorage of
the Bay, offering extensive berths with deep-water drafts
of 21m. Transit visas can be issued within 48hrs and with
the airports of Malaga, Seville, Jerez and Gibraltar all
within convenient range; speedy crew changes can be
easily effected. The port has the facility to clear spares
and provisions 7 days a week.
Algeciras has developed a series of key services and
facilities that make it an excellent service provider.
PORT AGENCY - CEUTA:MH Bland opened offi ces in Ceuta in early 2005 thus
making the “Three Ports, One Team” concept a reality.
Ceuta is situated on the southern side of the Strait of
Gibraltar and offers bunkering and husbandry as its
main services.
The port of Ceuta can accommodate vessels up to 250m in
length with a maximum draft of 10.2m, making it a niche
port for smaller tonnage. Its excellent berths facilitate
vessels using ex-pipe bunkering as well as bunkering at
anchor. With all service points within close proximity, this
Spanish enclave provides a fast and effi cient service in a
rapidly developing region. Ferry links to Algeciras every
hour make it possible to deliver spares, lubricants and
effect crew changes with ease.
PORT AGENCYPORT AGENCY
MOROCCO
SPAIN
ATLANTIC OCEAN STRAIT OF GIBRALTAR
MEDITERRANEAN SEA
GIBRALTAR
CEUTA
ALGECIRAS
P O R T A G E N C Y
5
ADMIRALTY CHART DEPOT
AIRPORTS IN CLOSE PROXIMITY
BUNKERING AT ANCHOR AND ALONGSIDE
CONTAINER HANDLING
CREW CHANGES
EXCURSIONS
FRESH WATER SUPPLY AT ANCHOR OR ALONGSIDE
HOTEL RESERVATIONS
IN-HOUSE CREW FARES AND TICKETING
LUBRICANTS SUPPLY ALONGSIDE OR AT ANCHOR
MARPOL IV & V SERVICES
MEDICAL FACILITIES AND REPATRIATION
OFF PORT LIMITS SERVICE
PANAMAX DRY-DOCKING
PROTECTED DEEPWATER ANCHORAGE
REPAIR FACILITIES AT ANCHOR OR ALONGSIDE
SHIP CHANDLERY FREE OF VAT
SPARE PARTS FREE OF VAT
SPECIALISED CRUISE LINER SERVICES
SUPPLY LAUNCHES
TRANSFERS
TRANSHIPMENT
VAT FREE EU STATUS
WAREHOUSING
WORKSHOPS
PRIMARY SERVICES
Marine D
ivis
ion
6
Strategic LocationStrategic LocationSUPER YACHTSInvolved in shipping since 1810, the Agency department
of MH Bland has the experience, local knowledge and
backing of a local organisation that extends a very
high level of service to the Mariner visiting Gibraltar –
particularly important considering the special requirements
of super yachts.
The Agency department attends to the requirements of
a large number of luxury cruise liners and super yachts
calling at Gibraltar. As a member of the Multiport Ship
Agency Network, the company has passed the network’s
stringent annual fi nancial and professional assessments.
MH Bland is a member of the “Association of Yacht
Support Services” an organisation composed of agents
and suppliers offering specialised worldwide coverage to
the super yacht industry.
PORT AGENCYPORT AGENCY
7
Experience & Local KnowledgeExperience & Local KnowledgeMH Bland Marine Services is both the principal stevedoring
company as well as the leading provider and operator of
harbourcraft, tugs and barges in this busy port.
STEVEDORESGibraltar’s status within the European Union makes it
an ideal port for transhipment operations of specialist
cargoes and the company is active in this area.
The company has equipment ranging from a 250 ton
Gottwald mobile harbour crane with a 36-ton lifting
capacity and a variety of heavy and lighter forklift trucks,
to smaller cranes suitable for bulk cargoes.
WAREHOUSINGMH Bland Marine Services operates from The North Mole
Container Terminal and a number of bonded warehouses
within the port area.
LUBRICANT DELIVERIESThe company operates a lubricant supply barge with a
capacity of 280,000 ltrs and delivers to vessels on behalf
of Shell and BP to the high HSSE standards required by
our principals.
RE-PROVISIONINGGibraltar’s strategic location at the entrance to the
Mediterranean and its special status within the EU make
it the ideal point from which to conduct re-provisioning
exempt from VAT.
MH Bland Marine Services’ own fl eet of harbourcraft,
tugs and barges together with the company’s team of
stevedores offer a complete range of services. This makes
us highly competitive and guarantees a reliable and
complete service for our clients.
Flexible working practices, good communications,
competitive prices and Gibraltar’s direct air links with the UK
add to the ports’ attraction for re-provisioning operations.
MARINE SERVICESMARINE SERVICES
Gibraltar - Rendezvous point: Zone ‘A’ 1-mile East of Europa Point
Gibraltar - Rendezvous point: Zone ‘B’ 6.5 miles south east of Europa Point
Gibraltar - Rendezvous point: Zone ‘C’: East Side Anchorage.
Algeciras - Rendezvous point: 2 miles southwest from Europa PointM
arine D
ivis
ion
8
RendezvousRendezvousOFF PORT LIMIT SERVICESWith over 80,000 vessels passing through the Strait of
Gibraltar our “Three Ports, One Team” concept offers the
ideal location for clients to avail themselves of convenient
OPL services with no deviation or loss of time.
No port clearance is issued for OPL calls in the Strait, and
therefore vessels do not come off charter.
The Agency is able to offer the following service:
Competitive Port Agency representation
Co-ordination of all requirements.
Customs clearance
Shore-side cargo handling and warehousing.
Delivery of stores by supply vessel.
Delivery for off-port limits is provided by supply tug.
MARINE SERVICESMARINE SERVICES
9
Gateway to the MediterraneanGateway to the MediterraneanWhen you fi rst see the Rock of Gibraltar from land, air
or sea, it is the Rock’s impressive stature – dominating
its surroundings - that causes the greatest impact. As
the great continents of Africa and Europe collided they
created Gibraltar and the narrow Strait over which it
strategically stands.
This beacon, which attracted the early inhabitants,
had many advantages as a home. The Rock is made of
limestone that is geologically very different from the
neighbouring landscape and is riddled with over 140
known caves. These made ideal shelters for our prehistoric
ancestors. At a time when the Mediterranean Sea was a
fl at sandy plain, these caves provided safe haven from
which to venture out for food.
Today Gibraltar stands as a rocky peninsula at the southern
tip of the Iberian Peninsula, linked only by a narrow
isthmus. Historically, biologically and even politically it has
been referred to as an island, especially in recent times,
but geologically it is a peninsula.
Inhabited by Ancient man, Phoenicians, Carthaginians,
Romans, Moors, Spaniards and the British, Gibraltar has a
rich blend of Moorish, Mediterranean and British cultures.
300 years of British rule have left its mark on this
impregnable fortress of the British Empire. Today, it stands
a world famous symbol of strength at the gateway to
the Mediterranean.
For environmentalists, historians, business people or
tourists alike, Gibraltar is a fascinating place.
GIBRALTARGIBRALTAR
Tourism
Div
isio
n
10
Guided ExcursionsGuided ExcursionsThe Group’s in-house coach fl eet offers
a wide range of guided excursions
around Gibraltar and Southern Spain.
We specialise in meeting the particular
needs of shore excursion passengers on
visiting cruise liners and day visitors who
are looking to maximise their time in
Gibraltar when coming from the Costa
del Sol across the Spanish border.
Our staff are fully committed to the
Group’s Quality Control guidelines set
out by the ISO 9001:2000 standard. The
team also conduct stringent security and
safety checks in keeping with the highest
standards required in the industry.
SHORE EXCURSIONSWith a fl eet of 22 air-conditioned coaches
and a team of qualifi ed drivers and
guides, we are able to offer the quality of
service that the cruise industry demands.
The integration between MH Bland’s
Port Agency and Calypso Tours is a
partnership that is unrivalled in Gibraltar
and offers signifi cant advantages to
both holiday operators and individual
customers alike.
The ability to closely co-ordinate the
specifi c requirements demanded by
both marine and tourism interests of
the cruise industry is a talent which has
been developed over many years of
experience in merging the fundamental
needs of each, without compromise and at
competitive rates. As a result, the Group
prides itself on its extensive client-base
and its premier position within this sector
of the local economy.
INSURANCEThe Group maintains an extensive
insurance policy to cover the stringent
requirements of the industry.
CALYPSO TOURSCALYPSO TOURS
MULTI-CENTRE TAILOR-MADE COACH EXCURSIONS OF GIBRALTAR, ANDALUCIA AND MOROCCO.
MULTI-LINGUAL COMMENTARY.
PASSENGER TURNAROUNDS AND AIRSIDE MANAGEMENT.
SHORE EXCURSIONS FROM THE PORTS OF GIBRALTAR, MALAGA AND CADIZ.
TAILOR-MADE ITINERARIES.
TRANSFER SERVICES WITHIN GIBRALTAR.
TRANSFERS INTO SPAIN.
ASSISTANCE WITH CUSTOMS FORMALITIES.
BAGGAGE HANDLING.
CO ORDINATE SECURITY AND SAFETY PROCEDURES.
FULL DAY EXCURSIONS TO TANGIER, MOROCCO.
HALF AND FULL DAY EXCURSIONS IN GIBRALTAR AND SPAIN.
CALYPSO TOURS OFFERS THE FOLLOWING SERVICES:
11
An Incredible SightDolphin World offers a captivating dolphin-watching cruise
while exploring the visually spectacular and historical Bay
of Gibraltar. The excursion enjoys a reputation for having
the highest success rate in fi nding
dolphins in Europe. The Bay and
Strait of Gibraltar are a natural
breeding area for several
types of dolphins and it is not
uncommon to encounter mothers with their
calves in pods ranging from 20 to 30, up to many hundreds,
an incredible sight!
Our Bay cruiser, the charismatic and charming “Brixham
Belle” offers up to 100 passengers comfortable seating in
sun or shade together with a bar and restroom facilities.
Passengers will also be able to purchase souvenirs of their
unforgettable ‘Dolphin Experience’ on board.
The Bay and Strait of Gibraltar are home to the Common,
Striped and Bottlenose dolphin, as well as migrating turtle,
fl ying fi sh and many species of whale. The cruise will
allow passengers to view this fascinating array of marine
life in their natural environment without disturbing
them. Lasting approximately 90 minutes, the experience
is complemented by an award-winning commentary on
dolphins and the history of Gibraltar.
DOLPHIN WORLD
Passengers will enjoy learning about Admiral Nelson and
the Battle of Trafalgar, the Pillars of Hercules, the Rock’s
vital role in WWII, famous visitors, famous weddings and
modern day Gibraltar.
Dolphin World is recommended by all the leading Tour
Operators and Cruise Lines, and was quoted by the BBC
1 ‘Holiday Programme’ as “The Highlight of the Costa del
Sol” and Sky Travel Channel as “The Ultimate Treat!”
Passengers can combine this excursion with a ride up the
Cable Car. Dolphin World operates a strict environmentally
friendly policy and does not allow feeding or physical
contact with the marine life in keeping with the guidelines
laid out by local environmental organisations.
Tourism
Div
isio
n
12
Top of the RockTop of the RockTHE CABLE CARTHE CABLE CAR
The Cable Car is the best way to the “Top of the Rock”
and a must-see attraction for all visitors to Gibraltar.
The journey takes passengers 412m above sea level in
approximately 6 minutes offering spectacular views all the
way. The Top Station is perched at the very summit of the
Rock of Gibraltar, with the sheer cliffs to the east and tree-
covered slopes leading to the City of Gibraltar to the west.
POCKET MULTIMEDIA TOURA personal state-of-the-art Interactive Multimedia Guide
is available to all passengers on arrival at the Top Station,
allowing passengers to gain an insight into Gibraltar’s
fascinating history whilst being guided around the Top
Station terraces. The commentary is available in eight
languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian,
Swedish, Portuguese and Hebrew and was the fi rst of its
kind to be offered in Europe.
NATURE RESERVE SITESNature Reserve Sites: The Cable Car provides thousands
of visitors each year with access to the Upper Rock Nature
Reserve sites that include St. Michael’s Cave, the Ape’s
Den, the Great Siege Tunnels and the Moorish Castle.
Tickets are available at the Cable Car ticket offi ce and at
the souvenir shop.
SPECTACULAR VIEWSThe Top Station terraces offer the most spectacular views
of Europe and Africa; southwards across the Strait of
Gibraltar to Africa; westwards over the City of Gibraltar
and across the Bay to Algeciras; a birds eye view of
Gibraltar airport and Spain to the north; and the blue
expanse of the Mediterranean and the beaches and cities
of the Costa del Sol to the east.
APES & BIRDS, FLORA & FAUNAVisitors to the Cable Car will be able to meet Gibraltar’s
oldest residents, the famous Barbary Apes, in their natural
environment. The Top of the Rock is also a natural viewing
point from where to admire the many birds that migrate
between Europe and Africa annually. It is also the ideal
starting point for visitors who wish to explore the Upper
Rock in search of over 500 different species of fl ora so
far discovered on the Rock’s slopes, some of which are
indigenous to Gibraltar.
The Cable Car team work closely with the Gibraltar
Ornithological & Natural History Society in maintaining the
apes’ well being. The MH Bland Group is an active member
of the Society’s endeavours in preserving the environment.
13
TOP OF THE ROCK SNACK BARPassengers will be able to pick up a bite to eat and a
drink whilst taking in the spectacular views around them
at the self-service air-conditioned snack bar located
within the Top Station complex. Group bookings can be
taken in advance.
WEDDINGS AND PRIVATE FUNCTIONSThe Mons Calpe Suite, located within the Cable Car Top
Station complex, provides the most spectacular setting on
the Rock for celebrations of all sorts – be it a wedding, a
corporate function or a family celebration, the Cable Car
will make your event truly memorable.
The air-conditioned Suite can accommodate up to 120
guests depending on requirements and offers breathtaking
220˚ views of the Bay of Gibraltar and surrounding area.
SOUVENIR SHOPVisitors will fi nd a wide range of unique souvenirs and
gifts, such as local art, Cable Car memorabilia, exclusive
‘Top of the Rock’ items and gifts from around the region
at the souvenir shop.
A visit to the Cable Car ensures visitors make the most
of their time in Gibraltar by allowing them to discover
Gibraltar’s fascinating history; experience the breathtaking
views and still have plenty of time to enjoy Gibraltar’s
Duty Free shopping centre in Main Street, located only
fi ve minutes walk from the Cable Car Base Station.
CruiseClubTourism
Div
isio
n
14
Quality ServiceMH Bland Travel Services caters for all aspects of travel
related services. Our philosophy is simple: We offer
quality service and value for money.
TOUR OPERATOR & TAILOR-MADE
TRAVEL PRODUCTSAs an IATA registered travel agency and a member of the ISO 9001-
2000 Quality Standard, MH Bland Travel Services prides itself in
providing the highest standards in customer service and advice. Our
travel agency is able to offer holidays around the world with leading
brand names or tailored dream holidays to suit personal requirements.
BUSINESS TRAVEL
Our dedicated in-house business team is trained to the highest
level with the latest technological links to major airlines/hotels/
car hire companies around the world. We will search for the most
competitive rates for all our corporate accounts. “We make your
business our business”.
THE CRUISE CLUB
Within the expertise of the general travel agency is the MH
Bland “Cruise Club”. A highly experienced team of specialists
offer in-depth knowledge on a wide range of cruise holidays
to destinations all over the world. Over the years The Cruise
Club has consolidated itself as the number one cruise
specialist operator in Gibraltar and Southern Spain where it
offers a service to an extensive expatriate client-base.
We are General Sales Agents for a number of premier cruise
lines and are able to offer the widest possible range of
holiday destinations so as to accommodate every dream.
As part of our communications package our clients are
kept regularly informed by our in-house newsletter “The
Cruise Review” which is available in hard copy or on our
website. Our pro-active team are able to offer personal
consultations in the comfort of clients’ own homes and
organise presentations to clubs and larger groups.
MH BLAND TRAVEL SERVICES
MH BLAND & CO. LTD.
Cloister Building, Market Lane
PO Box 554, Gibraltar
Tel:+350 200 79478 Fax:+350 200 71608
Email: [email protected]
www.mhbland.com