The hub of Monaco's Port Hercule

During the summer months, dozens of agents from the Société d'exploitation des ports de Monaco are called upon to manage the comings and goings of the dozens of boats that pass through the Port Hercule every day. Spotlight on the port agents.

They are responsible for most of the operations concerning the boats moored in the port. Xavier Amayenc and Vincent Lem are port agents. From 7.30am to 3pm - and from 2pm to 9.30pm for the second time slot* - they come to assist boats that come to moor or cast off. Once the operational control station authorises a boat to return, it calls on us to welcome it and show it its position,’ explains Xavier Amayenc. By the time the boat enters and sees where it's going to be, we'll be stationed with the zodiac in front of the site to pull the lines that link it to the boat in front. This is what replaces the anchor to hold it in place and prevents it from banging against the quayside. The lines are pulled and prepared by attaching them to neighbouring boats for the duration of the manoeuvre. When the boat is parked, we give the ropes to the crew on board, who pull them through the fairleads to tie a knot.