Operational Expertise, On Demand
Stingray Maritime's consulting practice draws on founder Richard Tager's 50+ years in maritime logistics — from military transportation at the Pentagon to building and operating stevedoring companies at ports across the Gulf Coast and Eastern Seaboard. That depth of operational experience is available to clients who need guidance beyond day-to-day cargo handling.
Whether you're evaluating a new port facility, planning a stevedoring startup, optimizing an existing cargo operation, or navigating regulatory requirements, Stingray Maritime can provide the insight and hands-on knowledge that only comes from decades at the berth.
Stevedoring Assessments
Independent evaluation of stevedoring operations for efficiency, safety, and cost performance. We review crew deployment, equipment utilization, discharge/loading rates, and operational workflows to identify improvements. Useful for port authorities, terminal operators, and cargo owners who want a second set of experienced eyes on their operations.
Port Operations Planning
Planning support for new or expanding port operations — from berth allocation and equipment requirements to labor planning and operational procedures. We help clients build the operational blueprint before the first vessel arrives, drawing on direct experience standing up operations at ports including Jacksonville, Port Manatee, Tampa, Albany, Fall River, and New Orleans.
Cargo Handling Optimization
Analysis and recommendations for improving cargo throughput, reducing vessel turnaround time, and minimizing handling costs. We evaluate the full cargo chain from vessel hold to final delivery, identifying bottlenecks and proposing practical solutions based on real operational experience — not theory.
Terminal Feasibility Studies
Practical assessments for proposed terminal operations — evaluating market demand, infrastructure requirements, equipment needs, labor availability, regulatory requirements, and financial viability. Our perspective is grounded in having built and operated terminal facilities at multiple Florida ports, including the GCBE operation at Port Manatee that grew to handle 350,000+ tons annually.
Stevedoring Startup Guidance
End-to-end guidance for launching a stevedoring operation — licensing and permitting, insurance requirements, equipment procurement, crew recruitment and training, port authority relationships, and customer development. Richard Tager has built multiple stevedoring businesses from the ground up, most recently Stingray Maritime in 2022, and can help others navigate the same path.
Regulatory & Licensing Support
Guidance on the regulatory landscape for stevedoring and terminal operations — stevedore licensing, port authority requirements, OSHA compliance, environmental permits, and industry certifications. We help clients understand and meet the requirements for operating at U.S. ports.
Who We Work With
- Port authorities evaluating terminal operations
- Cargo owners and shippers assessing port options
- Terminal operators seeking operational improvements
- Entrepreneurs entering the stevedoring business
- Vessel agents and charterers planning port calls
- Infrastructure investors evaluating maritime assets