Boeckmans to order future-proofed general cargo vessels

The first vessel in the series is expected to be delivered in the second half of 2025. The vessels are expected to achieve a 40% reduction in emissions compared with traditional general cargo vessels operating in diesel mode. 

The series of general cargo vessels, designed jointly with Handelskade, will contain diesel-electric engines placed under the ship’s forward accommodation. The vessel design will make space available at the stern for the installation of alternative fuel based propulsion systems, such as hydrogen-burning engines. In addition, there will be ample space available for storage of these alternative fuel sources.

The Motorship notes that the announcement did not specify whether the vessels would include dual-fuel engines capable of operating on conventional diesel fuel combined with hydrogen as fuel, or whether the vessels would require conversion to operate on hydrogen fuel blends once in service.   

“The ship’s primary design philosophy is to achieve lower emissions through hull shaping, innovative design and the application of the latest technologies. This can be reduced even further by implementing new sustainable propulsion systems and create storage space for fuels such as hydrogen. The ship’s diesel-electric configuration simplifies the integration of new systems into the power grid,” Pierre Durot, Director of Boeckmans said.

“Through our partnership with Boeckmans, we are once again breaking new ground in maritime sustainability. Our commitment to reducing emissions through the design of these cargo ships is a huge step forward. By embracing innovative propulsion systems such as hydrogen, we are not just building ships; we are working toward a greener future for global trade routes,” Alexander Saverys, CEO of CMB.TECH said.