Management of the Société du parc industriel et portuaire de Bécancour (SPIPB) is considering the possibility of adding port infrastructure in order to increase cargo handling potential.

To determine the feasibility, SPIPB management called on the services of the MSRC, in collaboration with CPSLC pilots and two tug captains. A series of simulations was carried out to verify the impact of adding the dolphin on the manoeuvring of ships entering and leaving the harbour.

The main objectives of these simulations were to:

1. Assess the impact on ship navigation following the addition of the dolphin at the entrance to the basin;
2. Assess the effect of strong winds as they enter or leave the harbour;
3. Determine the manoeuvring space available following dredging of the area east of the port;
4. Evaluate the performance of conventional tugs under severe environmental conditions;
5. Identify environmental conditions not conducive to port entry and exit manoeuvres;
6. Propose modifications or additions to navigational aids;
7. Make recommendations that will allow safe manoeuvres, mainly during port entry and exit manoeuvres.