As ports worldwide accelerate digitalisation to improve safety, sustainability, and operational efficiency, Syed Rakin Rahman, Reporter for Port Technology International, sat down with Laura Apoga, Business Development and Communication Project Manager at LVR Flote, during the TECHRITORY Conference in Riga. In this exclusive interview, they explore the LVR Flote’s role, fleet operations, expansion strategy, and forward-looking collaboration initiatives across the Baltic region.
What is LVR Flote?
LA: The story is that LVR Flote, meaning “LVR Fleet”, is a subsidiary company of the Port Authority of Riga. We function as a technical fleet, with the Port Authority as our shareholder. The company was created to provide technical services such as hydrographic surveys, maintenance of aids to navigation, icebreaking, pilot transfer, oil spill response, infrastructure management, and vessel chartering.
These services ensure safe navigation at the port so that it remains open to traffic year-round. Without these services, a port simply cannot operate effectively – you need to know the depths and maintain clear, ice-free navigation channels. We have been operating at the Port of Riga for 15 years. Our performance is evaluated every five years as a legal obligation, and so far, results show that we operate efficiently.
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It’s almost like you focus on safety aspects, which then translate into more secure operations, correct?
LA: Exactly. We concentrate on safety and the effective management of the port’s public infrastructure for use by other clients. To provide these services, we operate a fleet of vessels. So, we are both a fleet operator and a technical service provider within one company.
Are the vessels owned by the Port Authority or by LVR Flote?
LA: The vessels are under the name of LVR Flote. There is a similar model in Hamburg with the Hamburg Port Authority and Flotte Hamburg. The difference is that while Flotte Hamburg operates a fleet, we also provide the technical services alongside fleet operations.
I saw one of your vessels, the newest one, Laura. Can you tell me about her?
LA: Yes, Laura joined our fleet this year. She is a multifunctional hybrid propulsion, ice-class vessel with dual-use capabilities that supports all of our services. We also have an icebreaker, pilot boats, and hydrographic vessels. Additionally, we use drones to assist with hydrographic surveys in certain areas. This combination of vessels and technologies allows us to provide comprehensive services.
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That sounds very comprehensive. What else can you share about innovations or partnerships?
LA: After learning about Hamburg’s similar model, we established a friendship and began a port exchange programme. In recent years, there have been several exchanges between Latvian and German partners at all levels, promoting cooperation in the maritime field. This political support helped us sign a memorandum of understanding in June between LVR Flote, the Port Authorities of Riga and Hamburg, and our technological partners Latvian Mobile Telephone and Electronic Communications Office in Latvia.
The cooperation focuses on shared challenges such as predictive maintenance of fleets and using 5G connectivity to process large volumes of survey data in real time. This improves efficiency by enabling instant data transmission and analysis instead of waiting for errors or losses to occur.
So, when you collaborate with Hamburg, is it more about exchanging ideas and technology rather than resources?
LA: Yes, mostly ideas, technology, and innovation. We also exchange information on crew training and operational practices. For example, they operate different drone technologies, which aren’t currently part of our business, but we consult with them on it. They are also interested in our business model and strategic approach, which encourages them to consider expanding their own strategy.
Can you tell me more about your infrastructure management services?
LA: We provide infrastructure management only for the Freeport of Riga Authority. This includes snow clearance in winter, grass management and waste collection in summer, and maintenance of the port’s railway infrastructure and electrical utilities. Private terminals fall outside our scope.
With such broad responsibilities, which service would you say is most crucial for the port?
LA: Hydrographic surveying is crucial because it monitors the seabed and depths essential for safe traffic and port development. All services are strategically important, but icebreaking is seasonally vital to keep the port open year-round. Maintenance of aids to navigation is also essential; they serve as the ‘traffic lights’ for vessels.
Are there any plans to offer your services directly to other ports?
LA: Yes, that is part of our strategy. In Latvia, there are 10 ports, three larger ones and several smaller ones. It makes sense to consolidate technical resources because smaller ports cannot justify investing in their own fleets. First, we want to strengthen collaboration within Latvian ports. Later, we may expand to neighbouring Baltic ports.
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Given that LVR Flote is a 100 per cent subsidiary of the Port Authority, is there any potential conflict of interest when expanding services?
LA: No, quite the opposite. EU legislation supports horizontal cooperation among public bodies when it serves the public interest. It benefits the national economy to have safe and secure strategic services. There have been legal cases supporting this model.
Would expanding beyond Latvia pose any issues?
LA: Not necessarily. Our current focus is on the Latvian market first. Regional expansion might come later. Changing established habits and business models can be challenging, but we see ourselves as a platform enabling resource sharing among ports in the future.
That sounds like a unique and innovative model for port services.
LA: Yes, it’s quite like a financial services company helping other businesses, but we specialise in strategic technical services for ports and shipping. We don’t engage in commercial activities that could violate competition laws; we focus solely on public and strategic interests.
Laura Apoga, with 15 years of experience in the Port of Riga, Laura has built expertise in port goverance, business development, and corporate image. Currently serving as Development and Communications Project Manager at LVR Flote, a port technical services company, she leads strategic projects and initiatives in maritime innovation. Laura holds a Master’s in Law and Finance and is passionate about connecting ideas across disciplines.
