Dolphins S.r.l., often referred to commercially as Dolphins Shipping, is a specialized maritime agency and freight forwarding firm based in Bari, Italy. Strategically situated at a major gateway to the Adriatic Sea, the company operates as a comprehensive port service provider, representing shipowners, charterers, and operators across a diverse spectrum of vessel types. While the specific corporate entity was formally established in December 2016, its operational foundations are deeply rooted in the region's maritime history. The firm was created by the management and staff of the historic agency A. Morfini & Figli, which had operated since 1942. Consequently, Dolphins Shipping emerged to ensure the continuity of essential port services, effectively preserving decades of local logistical expertise and industry relationships.
The company’s core function involves acting as the primary interface between vessels and the shore during port calls. In the commercial sector, the agency manages the logistics for bulk carriers, specifically handling sensitive cargoes such as grains and fertilizers. This operational scope extends beyond simple administrative representation; the firm provides loading master services, deploying technical personnel to coordinate stevedoring activities, monitor cargo operations around the clock, and ensure accurate sampling and reporting for receivers. This technical supervision is critical for maintaining efficiency and safety during the transfer of goods in the port of Bari.
Beyond commercial freight, the company maintains a significant presence in the passenger and luxury maritime sectors. Leveraging the long-standing experience of its workforce, the agency provides ground handling and port agency services for major cruise lines, facilitating the complex logistics required for large-scale passenger disembarkation and resupply. Simultaneously, the firm has adapted to the growing prominence of the Apulia region as a luxury destination by establishing dedicated support for mega yachts. They coordinate berthing, provisions, and technical assistance for private superyachts exploring the Southern Italian coast.
Supporting these physical operations is a dedicated customs and administrative department. The firm manages the regulatory complexities of international shipping, handling import and export formalities, transit documentation, and crew visa processing. By integrating physical port supervision with customs brokerage, Dolphins Shipping serves as a central logistical node in Bari, facilitating the smooth flow of both commercial trade and high-end maritime tourism through the southern Adriatic corridor.
