Sustainability Vested In Diesel-Electric Coaster

Dubbed the SALMO 5000, the versatile singledecker type offers a daily fuel consumption of 4.5t, running on marine gas oil at a 10-knot service speed, denoting competitive performance relative to much of the existing fleet in the 5,000dwt category.

The SALMO 5000 layout incorporates provision for future, alternative fuel sources and has space allocated in the event of the adoption of hydrogen-powered fuel cell plant. Energy storage systems, conferring peak-shaving and low-emission port visits, are possible add-ons to the diesel-electric propulsion installation.

On a length of some 87m, hydrodynamic optimisation is reflected in the hull lines, while the box-like hold affords a high stowage factor and versatility in carrying the gamut of dry cargo commodities and industrial goods, and also containers on deck. Adaptation for the optional Open Top class notation allows the ship to sail with the hatch covers open so as to accommodate outsize or project cargo loads. The gross tonnage measurement of 2,999t is significant, as one of the ‘paragraphs’ for manning levels under the Dutch flag.

Bureau Veritas has drawing plan approval under way, and the shipyard is ready to offer prompt delivery positions from early 2024 onwards.

Thecla Bodewes Shipyards, whose network in the Netherlands includes construction yards at Kampen, Harlingen and Stroobos, is following a strategy which reflects the market’s push for low- and ultimately zero-emission vessels, albeit at affordable newbuild prices.

Towards the end of 2021, the company landed a contract from Rotterdam-based Vertom Shipping for a new generation of 7,000dwt multipurpose cargo vessels with diesel-electric power. The initial four-ship order was followed in June this year by a second tranche of business, entailing fifth and six representatives of the 119m class, designated the Labrax type.

Developed in conjunction with Groot Ship Design, each newbuild will incorporate the latter’s energy-saving Cross Bow concept. Production has been allocated to the Kampen yard, on the IJssel, the former Peters Shipyards. Launching of the first in the series, Vertom Patty, is imminent.