The Port of Baie-Comeau is considering realigning Wharf 5 to allow Handymax vessels to maneuver safely while maintaining a safe distance from a vessel moored at Wharf 4. To validate the feasibility of the project, the Port of Baie-Comeau commissioned the Maritime Simulation and Expertise Centre (MSRC) to conduct a series of docking and undocking maneuvers at the modified wharf.

For the purposes of this study, the Port of Baie-Comeau submitted the plan of the adjusted Wharf 5 to the MSRC. Three vessels were selected for these simulations: one Handymax vessel and two Handysize vessels that already use the Port of Baie-Comeau.

A Port of Baie-Comeau pilot performed the maneuvers necessary to validate the project. The objectives of these maneuvers were as follows:

• Assess the safe feasibility of docking and undocking at Wharf 5;
• Verify that the approaches are safe after the wharf realignment;
• Determine the feasibility of carrying out maneuvers while other vessels are moored at adjacent wharves;
• Indicate where dredging work will be required;
• Carry out maneuvers in wind conditions typical of the area and recognized as limiting;
• Make recommendations based on maneuvers carried out in environmental conditions up to the limits normally accepted in current practice at this port.