The Harmen Oldendorff arrived at Portsmouth’s pier the afternoon of January 12th. This massive red barge-like freighter came to unload sand or salt onto Granite State Minerals’ terminal via the cool conveyor-belt like arm of the ship seen in the middle shot above. The beautiful red ship looked pretty striking against the clear blue sky of the day…but by evening it was a different story. Since the freighter apparently had difficulty with docking on the pier, the Moran Towing tugboat can be seen in place mid-ship in the evening shot, ensuring that the ship didn’t stray too far.
It was also pretty neat since it was docked in the reverse position that we’re used to seeing freighters, with the front of the ship facing the buildings that line the Bow Street waterfront.
THE DAILY PORTSMOUTH 
Really cool,i bet watching it dock and unload is wicked!I wish i could just hang out and watch the docks..Such interesting things to see! Thanks for the photos,Phil!!:)
One of the most inspiring moments of my life was the first time I watched a massive freighter glide silently through the Memorial drawbridge late one night. The scale of the vessel against the backdrop of the lights of the harbor was incredible. Your photos definitely capture how magnificent these vessels are.
Thank you for the very kind words and for sharing the great moment. I’m always captivated by the ships, day and night, docked or traveling. Such a treat!
Saw this while coming home from spinnaker pt. on tuesday. I was going to walk the dogs down there tonight and shoot if it’s still there. This is the biggest boat I’ve see in Portsmouth Harbor ever.
Yes, it was mighty impressive! Sadly, since it wa so efficient at unloading, it was gone by lunchtime the following day…