Shipbuilding Tribune

IHC Merwede Launches ‘AL BAHAR’

Shipbuilding Tribune — Sun, 09 Mar 2014 15:30:25 +0000

IHC Merwede has successfully named and launched the 23,545kW self-propelled cutter suction dredger ‘AL BAHAR’ C/D HUTA 12 in a ceremony on 8 March 2014 at the company’s shipyard in Kinderdijk, The Netherlands.

It is building the innovative vessel for Huta Marine Works, which is based in Saudi Arabia.

The ceremony was performed by Ms Sylvia Wuebbens, the daughter of Mr M. Wuebbens, the Managing Director of Huta Marine Works.

The contract for the design, construction and delivery of the vessel was signed between Huta Marine Works and IHC Holland, part of IHC Merwede, on 11 October 2012. The keel was laid on 14 August 2013 and the ship will be delivered in the third quarter of 2014.

‘AL BAHAR’ C/D HUTA 12 has been designed and built using the latest technological developments. She is equipped with separate accommodation for the sailing and operating crews, a travelling deck crane and azimuth thrusters.

Special attention has been paid to the maintenance features and accessibility. The vessel will be deployed predominantly on both sides of the Arabian Peninsula, where she will dredge hard soil in difficult climatic conditions.

Additional information

Length overall 122.5m

Breadth 21.7m

Depth 6.8m

Draught 5m

Dredging depth 28m

Total installed power 23,545kW

Speed 9 knots

Accommodation 40 people

[mappress]

March 9, 2014

Construction of DanTysk’s Accommodation Platform Gains Momentum

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 14:48:14 +0000

Construction of an accommodation platform at Nobiskrug shipyard, based in Schleswig-Holstein, on behalf of Vattenfall and Stadtwerke München (SWM), is gaining momentum as the first phase, the production of all exterior walls of the platform, marks completion.

The accommodation platform is intended for the DanTysk offshore wind farm, offering space to about 50 people, who will be ensuring the future operation and maintenance of the wind farm.

Comprising five and a half stories, the platform is 20 meters high and weighing 2,500 tons.

Now, the parallel production of five decks is underway at full speed. The steel foundation of the platform, a 40 meter high jacket structure, is currently being built by Nordseewerke in Emden.

In addition to housing, the platform contains catering areas, medical premises, workshops, storage areas, offices and space for sports and leisure activities.

This year, the platform will be installed at its destination 70 kilometers west of the island Sylt in the North Sea.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

Star Bulk Takes Delivery of M/V Star Sirius

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 14:37:11 +0000

Star Bulk Carriers Corp., a global shipping company focusing on the transportation of dry bulk cargoes, has taken delivery of M/V Star Sirius a Post-Panamax bulk carrier of approximately 98,000 deadweight tons carrying capacity.

The Star Sirius is the second of the two modern Post-Panamax bulk carriers to be delivered to the Company, pursuant to the relevant binding agreements announced on January 29, 2014.

The vessel has commenced a time charter with the sellers, Glocal Maritime Ltd, for a period between 28 months to 32 months, at a gross daily hire rate of $15,000 less a 1.25% address commission on gross revenues. The vessel is expected to generate approximately $12.4 million in charter revenues over the minimum contracted period.

Inclusive of the acquisition of M/V Star Sirius, Star Bulk owns seventeen dry bulk vessels, consisting of five Capesize, two Post-Panamax, two Ultramax and eight Supramax vessels with average age of approximately 8.9 years.

In addition, Star Bulk has entered into definitive contracts for the construction of eleven, fuel efficient, dry bulk vessels, at high quality shipyards in Japan and China, including five Newcastlemax, two Capesize and four Ultramax vessels, with expected deliveries in 2015 and early 2016.

The Company has financed the purchase of the vessel using cash on hand and expects to refinance 65% of the aggregate purchase price of the vessel and of M/V Star Vega under the previously announced 7-year senior secured credit facility of up to $39.0 million with Deutsche Bank AG (“DB Facility”). The drawdown of the DB facility is expected to take place in March 2014.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

VIDEO: Pella Launches Project PE-65 Tug

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 13:54:27 +0000

Russian shipyard Pella has launched the tugboat of project PE-65 (building No 506) of the Acceptance Program of 2014.

Before the end of the year the tugboat will be delivered to the State Customer – Russian Navy and put into operation within the Northern Fleet of RF.

Assignment:

towing of vessels and floating objects in harbor areas and open seas
performing of escort operations at the speed of 10 knots
fire fighting operations at floating and shore objects;
oil and petroleum content products spill removal;
rescue and salvage operations;
ice–breaking of up to 0.8 m ice at the speed of up to 5 knots.

Technical information:

Length max 34.4 m
Width max 12.1 m
Draft 4.4 m
Speed 13.5 knots
Classification: КМ Arc4 R1 Аut1 FF3WS EscortTug by Russian Maritime Register of shipping
Propulsion system Z-drive US 255 FP, Rolls-Royce, FPP into nozzles

Full load displacement is 860 t.

Deck equipment:

bow double-drum anchor-towing-mooring electro-hydraulic winch М 140-180-2Т-2В-1С-FEH RED Fluidmecanica providing escort services, 20 t of bollard pull and 1860 kN of brake holding force;
aft electro-hydraulic towing winch CHR-20-180-1Т-1С-ЕА RED Fluidmecanica, providing 20 t of bollard pull and 1800 kN of brake holding force;
towing hook providing 650 kN of bollard pull with quick release device;
cargo crane Fluidmecanica HLRM 45/5 S with lifting capacity of 19.5 kN at the boom of 13.5m.

In order to fulfill fire-fighting operations the tugboat is equipped with external fire fighting system made by FFS (capacity is 1500 m3/h, 2 water monitors, water curtains system).

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

INS ‘SUMEDHA’ Commissioned into Service at GSL

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 13:19:02 +0000

INS ‘SUMEDHA’, indigenously designed in-house Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV), built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), was inducted into service today.

The vessel was formally commissioned into the Indian Navy by VAdm Anil Chopra, PVSM, AVSM, FO C-IN-C East at an impressive ceremony held at Goa Shipyard Ltd.

Speaking on the occasion, VAdm Anil Chopra said: “the timely delivery of Sumedha is truly a testimony to the Navy’s twin pronged commitment to indigenous design and ship construction”.

Congratulating Goa Shipyard for meeting the timelines of the ship’s delivery to the Indian Navy, as well as for the quality of work, VAdm Chopra said: “the warship-building process has been recognized over the world as one of the most challenging feats of engineering, from design through hull construction, outfitting, integration of diverse equipment, setting to work and finally, the delivery and acceptance trials. INS Sumedha, is a fine example of this complex process”.

This 105 meter vessel is the third in the series of four new class of NOPVs designed and built by Goa Shipyard Ltd for the Indian Navy. INS ‘SUMEDHA’ is the 200th vessel built by GSL and marks yet another significant milestone in the nation’s journey towards indigenisation and self reliance.

INS ‘SUMEDHA’ will help meet the increasing requirement of the Indian Navy for undertaking ocean surveillance and surface warfare operations in order to prevent infiltration and transgression of maritime sovereignty. This vessel is suitable for monitoring sea lanes of communication, defence of offshore oil installations and other critical offshore national assets. Besides, the vessel can be deployed for escorting high value ships and fleet support operations.

RAdm (Retd) Shekhar Mital, NM, CMD GSL said: “keeping into view Maritime Capability Perspective Plan of the Navy and Coast Guard, GSL has embarked upon a massive modernisation program aimed at creating new facilities and infrastructure, while augmenting existing ones. We have spent Rs. 300 crore from our own reserves on account of anticipated MCMV project. further modernization Phase III, at cost of Rs. 400 crore is progressing rapidly and is expected to be completed by July 2015. This will enable us to deliver quality ships/MCMV project at a competitive cost, with shorter construction periods and will increase our production capacity and product mix”.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

Naming of 7th Armada Tanker Set for April

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 12:37:29 +0000

The 7th Armada tanker which is under construction at Besiktas Shipyard will be named Shovket Alekperova, Palmali shipping group announced yesterday.

The ship will officially be launched at a ceremony scheduled for the 15th of April 2014.

The sixth tanker of RST22M Project named Bakhtiar Vahabzade, built by the Besiktas Shipyard for Palmali Group, was delivered to the owner on 15 March 2013. In total ten vessels of Project RST22M were ordered from Besiktas Shipyard.

The Project RST22M product tankers, designed by Marine Engineering Bureau, are successors of Project 005RST01, or “Armada” first series.

RST22M Project Particulars:

Length overall – 139.95 m,
Breadth – 16.6 m,
Depth – 6,0 m.
Endurance – 20/10 days (in sea/river)
Range – 4000 nautical miles
Speed – 10.5 knots

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

RS Surveys Construction of Arktika Icebreaker

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 11:08:50 +0000

Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) has performed survey of the forged blanks of a new generation RITM-200 reactor vessel for the lead dual draft nuclear icebreaker Arktika (project 22220).

The new icebreaker Arktika is built to RS class with the class notation КM Icebreaker 9 [2] AUT2-ICS EPP. During the construction of the icebreaker, RS experts performed survey of the hull, machinery, equipment, devices, radio navigation and electrical facilities, automation equipment in compliance with the requirements of RS rules, RS-approved project documentation as well as with the applicable requirements of international codes and conventions.

Upon the completion of construction, RS will continue survey of the icebreaker under operation.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 67 2014

AMELS Secures Order for AMELS 180

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 10:44:40 +0000

Dutch builder AMELS sold their newbuild AMELS 180 55-metre superyacht in February, which will be delivered in May 2015. Advised by the experts at Burgess in Monaco, the owners opted for a customised design provided by Christian Liaigre.

“In just 16 months, these owners will be enjoying a very personal yacht, clearly tailored to their own strong appreciation of artistry and refined lifestyle,” commented AMELS CEO Rob Luijendijk.

“Across the industry we see delivery time as increasingly pivotal in owners’ decision-making, and this new order brokered by Burgess confirms our leadership in this regard. Our trusted LIMITED EDITIONS platform eliminates technical risk and allows the owners to focus on customising the ‘fun parts’.”

The owners’ suite will feature a folding balcony, while the main saloon has port and starboard folding balconies, amplifying the inside-out feeling on board. Further features include a touch-and-go helideck and an extensive beach club to enhance connection with the ocean, including space for watertoys, a steam room and swimming platform with integrated stairs.

The owners selected Paris-based contemporary interior architect Christian Liaigre to create the interiors for the AMELS 180. This is the first time the international design house has worked on an AMELS yacht, complementing the bold and elegant exterior design by award-winning British designer Tim Heywood.

Burgess Technical Services will represent the owners during the build at AMELS.

Together with DAMEN, AMELS recently introduced a range of Yacht Support Vessels – four of the vessels have already been delivered, and three more are under construction. Purpose-built, these advanced fast support vessels can reach 28 knots.

AMELS 180:

Length overall 55.00 metres (180 feet)
Draft (Full Load) 3.38 meters
Maximum speed 15.5 knots
Cruising speed 13.0 knots
Range 4500nm @ 13 knots
Guest accommodation 12
Crew accommodation 12 + captain

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

NMD to Supply Deck Equipment for VARD’s Newbuild

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 10:17:47 +0000

Norwegian Deck Machinery (NDM) has signed a contract with VARD Søviknes for supply of a winch package to their NB 801, a Diving Support and Construction Vessel being built for Harkand Group.

The vessel is of VARD 3 03 design, specially designed and equipped for diving and subsea operation duties with a high focus on good sea-keeping abilities, excellent station keeping performances and low fuel consumption.

The vessel will be fitted with a 250 ton offshore crane, a ROV hangar, and a Twin Bell 18 Man Saturation Diving System, supporting split level.

The following equipment will be delivered:

Two combined windlass/mooring winches
Two chain stoppers
Two capstans

The winches will be delivered with electrical drive, frequency controlled.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

SC Amethyst Joins Sima Charters’ Fleet

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 09:52:21 +0000

The Dutch company Sima Charters successfully delivered a Multi Purpose 66ft Tender, christened SC Amethyst. Built by Sima Charters and Shipinstall, the tender features design and naval architecture by Vripack and is engineered for countless activities in the offshore sector.

The SC Amethyst is a heavy duty pilot/service boat, designed for multiple purposes such as crew transport and supplies to and from ships in anchor zones or offshore wind farms. She is employable as a general crewboat, windfarm survice vessel (WFSV), guard vessel, pilot boat, patrol vessel, survey vessel, rescue tender, etc.

The Sima yellow eye-catcher is provided with a full out Lloyd’s Register classified workboat construction with professional systems which make this ship suitable for safe operations in tough circumstances. Especially because she is extremely comfortable going to sea, as a result of which she can still function when many other similar sized ships have to pull out.

This high comfort level is due to an innovative lines plan and the application of a Sea-Keeper stabilization system which guarantees a comfortable ship motion at lower speed and in stationary modus. Besides that the twin Volvo Penta IPS propulsion units make this full aluminum lady by far the most fuel efficient, compared to all the competing vessels that are allowed in the same working area, burning only 200 liters of fuel at 21 knots.

Peter Bouma, Naval Architect at Vripack explains; “The Amethyst has really exceeded our detailed CFD analyses and efficiency calculations. We are very proud of how she performs. Her ship motion levels are remarkably low and because of the high efficiency she is very fuel efficient and thus cost efficient to run. Based on the facts this bruiser is considered the crème de la crème of workboats today. It simply doesn’t get any better than this”.

The SC Amethyst has a very practical size and economical layout, she can be considered a newborn vintage tender that has been designed like a smooth custom made gentleman’s suit, but with many integrated gadgets. The Navigation equipment is top of the bill with two radars, SAR finder, computer plotters, AIS, NAVTEX and much more.

“The SC Amethyst is equipped with an advanced shock absorbing bow fender designed to guarantee a constant and safe connection to all wind turbines or boat-landings on other structures. The railings are easily removable which allows ship to ship transfers via the side. The recessed fenders alongside the tender protect the other vessel and its ladder when mooring at sea, while the walk-around-lifeline prevents passengers from falling over board”, Ruud Lievaart, CEO of Sima Charters BV, explains.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

Palmali Orders Five Tankers from Armada Shipyard

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 09:24:15 +0000

Palmali Group, a shipping company operating in the Mediterranean, Caspian and Black Seas, has signed a contract with Armada Shipyard for the construction of 5 tankers in accordance with the new series of Armada project RST22M, of DWT 7150, the Group announced yesterday.

ILLUSTRATION (ARMADA-TYPE TANKER NAMED MUGAN)

The contract was signed on the 23rd of December 2013. The delivery of the 1st tanker will take place in May 2015.

The Project RST22M product tankers are successors of Project 005RST01, or “Armada” first series. The Armada serial ships were designed by Marine Engineering Bureau for Palmali Group and built at the shipyards of Selah and ADA in Tuzla (Turkey) in 2002 -2006. The distinctive feature of the ships built under project RST22M is the utilization of rudder propeller as the sole propulsion system, absence of central bulkhead, deep well cargo pump, cargo tanks free from any frames with tronk.

The ships fit the Volgo-Don and Volgo-Balt channels in respect of their dimensions. The length overall (LOA) of the project RST22M ships is 139.95 m, breadth is 16.6 m and the moulded depth is 6.0 m.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

Aker Philadelphia Secures Cash for Four Product Tankers

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 08:52:51 +0000

Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, Inc. (APSI) has entered into a loan agreement with Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation (Cat Financial) for a USD 120 million loan facility for construction financing on the four product tankers under contract with Crowley Maritime Corporation (Crowley).

The loan will be subject to a maximum borrowing amount of USD 58-60 million per vessel and will be secured by a first lien on Hulls 021-024. The loan will accrue interest at three-month Libor plus 3.0% as defined in the loan agreement.

The commitment letter for this loan was originally disclosed in AKPS’s third quarter 2013 financial report. APSI currently has under construction two 115,000 dwt crude oil carriers for SeaRiver Maritime, Inc., ExxonMobil Corporation’s U.S. marine affiliate, and one 50,000 dwt product tanker for the joint venture with Crowley.

APSI also has firm contracts for the construction of three additional 50,000 dwt product tankers for the joint venture with Crowley and contracts for two 3,600 teu containerships with Matson Navigation Company, Inc.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

Bergen Sells Two Shipbuilding Projects to Kleven

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 08:40:14 +0000

Bergen Group said in a release today that it has decided to accelerate the process of reducing the Group’s future involvement in the shipbuilding business in favor of a more dedicated focus on offshore related activities.

As a part of this process, Bergen Group has entered into an agreement of selling two of the remaining shipbuilding projects to the shipyard group Kleven located in Sunnmøre, Norway.

The sale will release approximately NOK 80-90 million in already invested working capital in these two projects. At the same time, the need for additional working capital contribution from Bergen Group’s hand in these projects has been eliminated.

The sale from Bergen Group to Kleven comprises contracts on construction of two offshore construction vessels (OCV) of the ST 259 CD-design. The contracts were signed between Bergen Group Fosen and Volstad Maritime AS in the first half of 2012.

Both hulls are currently under construction at Daewoo shipyard in Romania, and will arrive in Norway in Q2 and Q4 2014 respectively for outfitting and completion.

CEO Asle Solheim points out that the sale of these two projects to Kleven has no implications on the ongoing establishment of NorYards AS, where the international company Calexco S.a.r.l will become the main shareholder.

“The transaction with Calexco is expected to be completed by the end of the 1st quarter this year as previously announced. The new company NorYards AS is already well underway to build a highly competent management team that is ready to continue with Bergen Group Fosen and Bergen Group BMV under the new name and with a new majority shareholder”, says Solheim.

NorYards AS will, when the transaction is closed, enter into a service agreement with Bergen Group about taking over the commissioning of the two ongoing outfitting projects to be completed during the spring and summer of 2014.

These two projects are an anchor handling vessel at Fosen and an offshore construction vessel at BMV. The contract responsibility for the two projects now being sold to Kleven will be transferred to Kleven as a part of the sale.

Bergen Group will remain with a limited guarantee commitment until these vessels are delivered in the first half of 2015.

“These two projects have not been optimal contracts for the Group in terms of funding requirements and the need for temporary working capital. This has put constraints on our flexibility in future initiatives towards offshore – related activities. Now we have released a significant proportion of equity in these projects. This gives us an improved latitude which can be used to reinforce the various processes related to our strategy of growth within the maritime and offshore service – related business“, says Solheim.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

ESG Delivers MV BRAVANTE VI to Bravante Group

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 08:16:11 +0000

Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. delivered the M/V BRAVANTE VI (Hull 156 ) on Friday February 28, 2014 to Boldini S.A., BRAVANTE GROUP of Brazil.

The BRAVANTE V (Hull 155), the first in the series, was delivered three months earlier and is currently on charter in Brazil.

The BRAVANTE VI is the second STX SV290 design of five vessels in a series which are all, ABS Classed, AC Diesel – Electric powered, twin Z – drive propelled PSV’s measuring 284’(86.5m) x 60’(18.3m) x 24’ – 6”(7.5m).

These high-tech vessels feature four Cummins QSK- 60DM 16-cylinder turbo-charged IMO Tier II diesel generator engines each rated at 1825 kW at 1,800 rpm.

Cummins also furnished the four Marathon Model 744 690VAC main generators. The main propulsion power is provided by two 690VAC electric motors driving two Schottel Combi-Drives SCD 2020 Single Fixed Pitch Propellers with Nozzles rated at 2,500 kW at 750 rpm each for a total of 6,700 Hp.

Schottel also provided two STT 4 Fixed Pitch Reversing Tunnel Thrusters rated at 1,180 kW at 1,170 rpm, each with direct coupled Hyundai 690VAC electric motors. GE Energy provided the complete system integrated diesel electric package, including the thruster drives, motors, control systems, DP system, switchboards, motor control centers, automation and navigation/ communication electronics.

These vessels are capable of a maximum speed of over 13 knots with a cruising speed of 12 knots. The fully integrated bridge is arranged for increased visibility and features the latest technology in navigation, communication equipment.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

Lomar Eyes More Container Vessels at Chinese Yards

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 07:45:37 +0000

Lomar, the shipping subsidiary of the Libra Group, has declared further three options to build new container vessels at Chinese shipyards. The company now has over 20 firm newbuilding orders for container ships and bulk carriers within its fleet of over 60 vessels.

The company has declared its final two options in a total order for six 1,100 TEU container vessels from the Yangzijiang shipyard. They are designed by leading Chinese design institute SDARI (Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute) and have much improved fuel consumption and the ability to carry up to 220 reefer containers. The vessels will be named Toronto Trader, to be delivered in late 2015 and Tampa Trader, to be delivered in early 2016.

Lomar has also declared a further purchase option within its order for 2190 TEU container ships from China’s Guangzhou Wenchong Shipyard, bringing its total firm orders to five. This vessel is due for delivery in 2015 and is similarly a modern, fuel-efficient design from SDARI.

This further commitment to newbuilding container vessels is part of the strategic refreshment and renewal of Lomar’s fleet. The company states that this process will ensure that its vessels are well-suited to current and anticipated customer requirements.

Other newbuildings within the Lomar fleet include eight firm orders and two purchase options for 64,000 dwt ‘Ultramax’ bulk carriers from the COSCO Group in China.

Lomar has a mixed fleet of vessels including containers, bulkers, chemical tankers and LPG as well as offshore vessels. Libra’s other transportation interests include its aviation leasing subsidiary, LCI, which is also involved in the offshore sector and has a recently placed order for a fleet of new generation helicopters from AgustaWestland and Airbus valued at close to $1 billion.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

Kawasaki Heavy to Build Two PCTCs for UECC

dt_com — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 07:35:57 +0000

United European Car Carriers (UECC), which is jointly owned by NYK and Wallenius Lines, has signed a contract to construct two dual-fuel LNG Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs).

The contract has been signed with Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and the vessels will be constructed at the shipbuilder’s joint venture NACKS shipyard in Nantong, China. Deliveries of both vessels will be in the second half of 2016.

The vessels will be 181 meters long and have a 30-meter beam. They will be Finnish/Swedish ice class 1A Super vessels, thus allowing for full-year trading in the Baltic area. Each ship will be capable of transporting approximately 3,800 standard-sized vehicles over its 10 decks. A significant amount of the cargo capacity can also be used to transport high and heavy cargo, in addition to cargo loaded onto MAFI trailers. The deck configuration will be optimized for both current and expected cargo mixes.

The vessels will be capable of operating on either LNG fuel or heavy fuel oil and marine gas oil, thus providing greater flexibility and efficiency. These ships will be the first PCTCs to be fitted with an LNG-fuel propulsion system and will be able to complete a 14-day round voyage in the Baltic using solely LNG fuel for main engine and auxiliary power generation.

The use of LNG significantly reduces CO2 emissions, as well as almost eliminating sulphur oxide emissions and other particles.

UECC CEO Glenn Edvardsen said, “The LNG installation is a pioneering design and will be one of the largest employed on a commercial vessel and the largest yet of its kind on a pure car and truck carrier. We are proud of the exciting step UECC is taking towards greener and more environmentally friendly shipping.”

The vessels will employ a number of other design elements and technologies to help reduce fuel consumption and emissions, ensuring safer and more efficient operations. With a capacity for approximately 3,800 cars, these ships will be the largest PCTC-type vessels specifically designed for transiting the Baltic and other ice-prone areas.

“UECC will be able to provide our customers with transportation in the Baltic area with unparalleled efficiency, reliability, and superior environmental performance,” Mr. Edvardsen stressed.

The vessels have been jointly developed by UECC in close collaboration with NYK’s Technical Group and Wallenius Marine, together with Kawasaki Heavy Industries in Japan.

[mappress]
Press Release, March 7, 2014

M/Y CRN 133 Megayacht Hits the Water

dt_com — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 15:15:30 +0000

On March 3 in Ancona, CRN Spa, which forms part of the Ferretti Group, launched M/Y CRN 133, the 61 metre megayacht designed by the architect Francesco Paszkowski.

The yacht is the result of the work carried out by the entire shipyard and a combination of skills and expertise: the external profile and the internal layout have been designed by the architect Francesco Paszkowski in close collaboration with the CRN Technical Department, which took care of the naval project, and the CRN Design Department.

Extreme dynamism, movement of structures and clean and sleek lines are the features that characterize the personality of this vessel and make it recognizable and appreciated.

For the first time onboard a CRN megayacht of this segment, there is a deck for the sole use of the owner, which makes it possible to live the sailing experience in the best way possible in utmost privacy, in maximum comfort.

Lamberto Tacoli, Chairman and CEO of CRN, said: “Particularly, we take pride in this launch because it is the eighth megayacht in the 60mt segment of in the last ten years. Each launch reflects the work done over many years and the beginning of new prospects for the future. CRN, now more than ever, has confirmed itself amongst the leading companies that build pleasure ships, taking pride in representing Made in Italy in the world”.

After the launch, the yacht will remain in the Shipyard until the end of April: in the coming months, technical tests will be carried out and the final details of the interior fittings will be put in place, before it is finally delivered to the owner.

At the moment another 5 vessels of the CRN brand are being built: namely, 3 steel and aluminium megayachts – CRN 131 74 m (designed by Zuccon International Project), CRN 132 73 m (designed by Omega Architects) and CRN 134 55 m (designed by Nuvolari & Lenard) – together with another maxiyacht of the Ferretti Custom Line, the CL 124’, and a Riva 122’ superyacht Mythos made of aluminium.

Moreover, 2 Letters of Intent have been recently signed for the construction of two 44 metre “SuperConero” megayachts, inspired by the historic line of the seventies, and another Letter of Intent for a 68 metre superyacht, the biggest ever realized for the Asian market.

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

VIDEO: Damen Platform Supply Vessel 3300 CD

dt_com — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 14:24:24 +0000

Shipbuilding is an arduous work, from the very beginning till the moment a vessel hits the water.

The following video, brings you a taste of the entire process on a particular type of vessel, namely the Damen Platform Supply Vessel 3300 CD.

The Damen Platform Supply Vessel is a highly efficient, large-capacity ship, especially suited for transport of crew and supplies to and from offshore structures.

The vessels may be optionally fitted with: Fire Fighting, Oil Recovery and/or high class Dynamic Positioning installations.The vessel design provides safe and comfortable working environment.

[mappress]
SBT Staff, March 6, 2014

First ‘Oblique’ Icebreaker Starts Sea Trials

Shipbuilding Tribune — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 12:32:21 +0000

Arctech Helsinki shipyard began sea trials for the icebreaking rescue vessel Baltika on March 6, 2014.

Baltika, to be used in icebreaking, rescue and oil combatting operations in the Gulf of Finland, is the first ship ever to break ice sideways. In oblique mode the vessel is able to generate 50 m wide channel in 0.6 m thick ice. Bow and stern first the vessel can operate in 1.0 m thick ice.

The design of the vessel is based on ARC 100 concept, which has been developed by Aker Arctic Technology. The vessel measures 76.4 m in length and 20.5 m in breadth. The three main diesel generator sets have the total power of 9 MW and the total propulsion power is 7.5 MW.

The trials will last for a couple of days. Baltika will be delivered to the Russian Federal Agency of Sea and River Transport in spring 2014.

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

Afai Southern Ensures Production Quality

dt_com — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 12:13:03 +0000

The Safety and Quality Management Department (QC) of Afai Southern is strengthening in-process inspection so as to ensure the overall construction quality.

In several under construction projects, the Safety and Quality Management Department is implementing the following measures:

strengthening the in-process inspection at superstructure’s assembly of ASA042
strict execution of AFAI Quality Standard on Shipbuilding, which applies not only to the workers, but to each workshop technical supervisor controlling the quality in processing (all of them are required to be familiar with quality requirements)
and inspection of construction quality.

When inspecting ship berth joint of coastal high-speed rescue vessel ASA049, QC measured several key points, including hull centerline, demi-hull line, ground hull line, deck levelness and center keels height, etc.

In the process of inspection, the Department members held on-site meetings with workers and technical staff to discuss construction techniques and solve problems, ensuring the quality of block assembly.

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

JES Announces New Options

Shipbuilding Tribune — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 11:03:13 +0000

JES International Holdings, through its wholly owned subsidiary Jiangsu New East Marine Engineering Co. Ltd, has signed an option for the construction of further four Newcastle-max bulk carriers.

The value of the vessels signed under the option is approximately $212 million. The option is signed with the same European customer as announced on 28 February 2014.

Delivery of the 208,000 DWT vessels under the option, if exercised, is expected to take place after 2016.

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

Imabari Acquires Koyo Dockyard

Shipbuilding Tribune — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 10:24:24 +0000

Imabari Shipbuilding Ltd. has completed the take over of the Koyo Dockyard Co., Ltd.

As a result of the merger, ex-Koyo Dockyard had to change its name to Hiroshima Shipyard of Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.

The shipyard specializes in building chemical tankers made of stainless steel. The knowledge and processing technology of the yard concerning stainless steel surpasses all other Japanese shipbuilders.

Imabari Shipbuilding continues to strengthen the company quality, stabilize the management foundation and promote the efficient operation through consolidation of its resources.

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

Seaspan Launches Crane Naming Contest

dt_com — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 09:10:45 +0000

With Canada’s largest permanent Gantry Crane now safely offloaded at its new North Shore location, Seaspan announced on March 3 that it has partnered with the North Vancouver School District (NVSD) to conduct an official “Crane Naming Contest.”

From March 3 – March 14, 2014, Seaspan is calling on all Grades 4 – 7 students in NVSD, to put their thinking caps on, come up with their one best idea in two words or less, and help cement their spot in the history of Vancouver Shipyards.

“The arrival of our new 300-tonne Gantry Crane marks a major milestone in Seaspan’s Shipyard Modernization Project and the future of the North Vancouver community as a whole,” said Brian Carter, President of Seaspan Shipyards. “No construction project is complete without creative inspiration, and I personally can’t wait to see some of the great names that are sure to be submitted.”

More than 4400 students from 25 schools across North Vancouver are being asked to put on their best crane-naming brain for a chance at a grand prize that includes a new iPad Air. The prize will be presented at an official naming ceremony at Seaspan that includes classmates and family members. The winning name will also be permanently displayed on the crane.

“We’re pleased to be able to facilitate this contest for our intermediate students,” says Franci Stratton, Chair of the North Vancouver Board of Education. “Seaspan is a long-standing supporter of the School District’s work experience and career programs for secondary students. This is an exciting opportunity for our younger students, and we look forward to the creative thinking it inspires.”

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

Drydocks Hands Over MCV Eagle Louisiana

Shipbuilding Tribune — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 08:38:28 +0000

Drydocks World, the leading provider of maritime and offshore services to the shipping, oil, gas and energy sectors, announced the completion and delivery of Eagle Louisiana, the second of two Modular Capture Vessels (MCV) for the U.S.

The first MCV, Eagle Texas, sailed away from Drydocks World’s yard in August last year. The vessels are the world’s first MCVs. The MCVs will operate as normal tankers in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico and will be outfitted and deployed for containment services in the event of a deepwater well control incident in the region.

Drydocks World converted the Aframax tanker for AET, a global leader in petroleum shipping, which has a 20-year agreement with Marine Well Containment Company (MWCC) for the operation of the MCVs.

Ten world-renowned companies form MWCC: ExxonMobil, Chevron, BP, ConocoPhillips, Anadarko, Shell, Apache, Statoil , BHP Billiton, Hess – all of them committed to safe deepwater drilling in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.

“We have once again proven our exemplary project management capabilities, engineering solutions, commitment to the industry and the drive to face challenges in delivering pioneering projects with world leaders like AET and MWCC,” said H.E. Khamis Juma Buamim, Chairman of Drydocks World & Maritime World. “This is a pioneering project. A newly-fabricated subsea containment assembly will attach to risers and other containment equipment to direct the flow of fluids to the MCVs for processing and storage. We are delighted to have been associated with this ground-breaking project. This accomplishment also represents two million man-hours without a single Lost Time Injury, which together with the four million man-hours on Eagle Texas is quite an outstanding achievement.”

The work scope of the shipyard included installing components such as four retractable azimuth thrusters, one tunnel bow thruster, new machinery spaces, diesel generator sets and associated tanks, auxiliaries, switchboards, and electrical distribution equipment.

The main engine was modified for Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) operation and a control system was added for dynamic positioning, power management and equipment monitoring.

Structural support stools and foundations were added for the future installation of topsides processing modules, a turret, flare tower, communications equipment, control facilities and other miscellaneous equipment.

The ship’s systems were modified to provide services to topsides processing equipment, as well as hydraulic systems for the CPP, thrusters, cargo valve control and fire pumps. A new main deck central pipe rack was fabricated and piping was installed to support topsides processing equipment. The ship‘s living quarters were also upgraded to accommodate more than 65 persons. Mechanical completion, pre-commissioning, commissioning, testing and sea trials of the converted vessel were also carried out.

The amount of steel used for the Eagle Louisiana project is 2530 tonnes with 19.68 km of pipes and electrical cables of 292 km also utilized. The MCVs will individually have 700,000 barrels of liquid storage capacity, and can process, store and offload the liquids to shuttle tankers.

With the delivery of the MCVs, Drydocks World has created a name for itself in sophisticated vessel conversions.

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

Cemre Shipyard Splashes Another for Havyard

Shipbuilding Tribune — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 08:21:53 +0000

Turkish shipbuilder, Cemre Shipyard launched a state-of-the-art platform supply vessel (PSV), the Polarsyssel a few days ago.

The vessel is being built for the Norwegian Havyard Group based on the order of Icelandic oil service company Fafnir Offshore.

Polarsyssel is a PSV of Havyard 832L L WE design, specially built for operations under extremely harsh conditions in the North Atlantic. She is 88.5 meters long and 17.6 meters wide.

The deck area encompasses 850 square meters including a modular helideck. The vessel will be equipped with a fire-fighting unit, an emergency oil recovery system, a dynamic-positioning system (DP2) for optimal position keeping during operations, refueling system for Jet A-1 fuel, and a night vision detection system for identifying people, oil, and ice in the dark.

Also, on board there will be a twin-jet rescue boat as well as two work, search, and rescue boats.

With the total investment of $55 million, the Polarsyssel represents the biggest offshore project in Iceland.

[mappress]
SBT Staff, March 6, 2014

Austal’s Post-Delivery Service Matures

Shipbuilding Tribune — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 07:32:03 +0000

Austal has been awarded a contract for post-delivery support on USS Jackson (Littoral Combat Ship 6).

The U.S. Navy awarded Austal USA a $7,120,153 modification to a previously awarded contract to exercise an option for post-delivery support for LCS 6.

Under the contract, Austal USA will perform planning and implementation of deferred design changes that were identified during the construction period.

Austal Chief Executive Officer Andrew Bellamy said: “As Austal’s shipbuilding program in the US continues to mature, so does our post-delivery service and support capabilities, as evidenced by this award. We are focused on positioning our US shipyard to win further support work as we continue to expand its service and repair capabilities.”

Austal has a US$3.5 billion contract from the U.S. Navy to build 10 Littoral Combat Ships, with 6 vessels funded, and a separate US$1.6 billion contract from the U.S. Navy to build 10 103-meter Joint High Speed Vessels (JHSVs), which are fully funded.

The LCS program is at full capacity at Austal’s Mobile shipyard, with five ships currently under construction. USS Coronado (LCS 4), which was constructed under a separate contract with General Dynamics, was delivered to the Navy in September 2013 and is scheduled to be commissioned at a ceremony in California in April 2014. USS Jackson (LCS 6) – Austal’s first as prime contractor to the U.S. Navy – was launched in December 2013 and is preparing for sea trials. USS Montgomery (LCS 8) is being assembled in Bay 4 in preparation for launch in Q4 FY2014.Final assembly has begun in Bay 5 on USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10) and modules for USS Omaha (LCS 12) are under construction in the Module Manufacturing Facility. Fabrication on USS Manchester (LCS 14) – Austal’s fifth vessel as prime contractor – began in January 2014.

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

Jiangsu Yangzijiang Books Kamsarmax Trio

Shipbuilding Tribune — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 07:22:54 +0000

Paragon Shipping Inc. has entered into shipbuilding contracts with Jiangsu Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Co for three eco-design Kamsarmax drybulk carriers.

The eco-design Kamsarmax newbuildings will have a carrying capacity of 81,800 dwt each. Two of the newbuildings are scheduled to be delivered in the second quarter of 2015 and one is scheduled to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2015.

Commenting on the developments, Paragon Chairman and CEO, Michael Bodouroglou stated: “With this order, we have increased our newbuilding orderbook to 7 drybulk vessels and one containership, which brings our total fleet to 22 vessels and improves our fleet profile significantly. We believe we are at the start of a strong year for the drybulk market and are positioning Paragon to take advantage of an improving market.”

The total consideration for these three newbuilding contracts is $91.65 million.

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

Harren & Partner to Equip Its Fleet with DNV GL’s ShipManager

dt_com — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 07:20:15 +0000

German-based shipowner Harren & Partner will implement the DNV GL business intelligence software systems ShipManager Analyzer and ShipManager QHSE for its entire fleet of 52 vessels.

Both innovative systems will enable Harren & Partner to extract data from operational systems and optimize management of its ships.

The first trial implementation for the two software systems is expected to be running in April. By mid-year the entire fleet will have ShipManager Analyzer and ShipManager QHSE installed, allowing the integrated solution to support the improved performance, efficiency and safety of Harren & Partner´s fleet of container feeder vessels, bulk and heavy lift carriers, tankers, multi-purpose carriers and dock ships, ranging from 4,000 to 76,000 tdw.

DNV GL won the tender after Harren & Partner conducted an in-depth review of available software on the market for its fleet, using sophisticated tools in order to evaluate the capabilities of all of the leading solutions.

“With Harren & Partner a very impressive company joins the fast-growing user community of DNV GL´s ShipManager platform,” says Torsten Büssow, Director Maritime Software at DNV GL – Software. “It will help us to maintain our leading market position within maritime software, at the same time as we are constantly developing new and improved solutions for the future,” he says.

The implementation may be expanded to include additional modules of DNV GL’s ShipManager portfolio. The eight ShipManager modules are: Analyzer, QHSE, Procurement, Finance, Hull, Projects, Technical and Crewing.

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

Aqua-Guard Pens Contract with Damen

Shipbuilding Tribune — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 07:10:27 +0000

Aqua-Guard has signed a contract with Damen Shipyards of Gorinchem, The Netherlands for the supply of two large URO 300Z1 offshore oil skimming systems.

Damen Shipyards are currently building two Oil Spill Response Vessels (OSRV’s class 1050) for the end customer GeoNavegação of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

These vessels will patrol the offshore regions of Brazil and be on standby in the event of an oil spill. Each vessel will be approx. 67 meters in length with a 14-meter beam. The vessels will be equipped with one Aqua-Guard URO 300Z1 offshore oil skimming system.

Each URO 300Z1 will be fully equipped with Aqua-Guard’s patented RBS TRITON™ oil skimming technology and has the ability to recover in excess of 300 m3/h of oil.

The URO 300Z1 systems are built to Zone I hazardous explosion proof standards certified by DNV.

One major advantage of Aqua-Guard’s URO 300 Oil SkimmingSystem, is that only one skimmer head is required for virtually any type of oil spill, including ultra-viscous oils. This unique Aqua-Guard feature drastically decreases response time, increases storage space on the vessel and also increases safety of the equipment operators as minimal additional setup is required while on the way to the oil spill.

[mappress]
March 6, 2014

Shipbuilding Tribune

IHC Merwede Launches ‘AL BAHAR’

IHC Merwede has successfully named and launched the 23,545kW self-propelled cutter suction dredger ‘AL BAHAR’ C/D HUTA 12 in a ceremony on 8 March 2014 at the company’s shipyard in Kinderdijk, The Netherlands.

Top Stories of the Week ( March 3 – March 8, 2014)

STX in $579m Deal with Navig8

Gondan Bags $72m Research Vessel

ULJANIK Nets One from IHC Merwede

Ulstein Verft Delivers OCV Polar Onyx

First ‘Oblique’ Icebreaker Starts Sea Trials

Construction of DanTysk’s Accommodation Platform Gains Momentum

Construction of an accommodation platform at Nobiskrug shipyard, based in Schleswig-Holstein, on behalf of Vattenfall and Stadtwerke München (SWM), is gaining momentum as the first phase, the production of all exterior walls of the platform, marks completion.

Star Bulk Takes Delivery of M/V Star Sirius

Star Bulk Carriers Corp., a global shipping company focusing on the transportation of dry bulk cargoes, has taken delivery of M/V Star Sirius a Post-Panamax bulk carrier of approximately 98,000 deadweight tons carrying capacity.

VIDEO: Pella Launches Project PE-65 Tug

Russian shipyard Pella has launched the tugboat of project PE-65 (building No 506) of the Acceptance Program of 2014.

INS ‘SUMEDHA’ Commissioned into Service at GSL

INS ‘SUMEDHA’, indigenously designed in-house Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV), built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), was inducted into service today.

Naming of 7th Armada Tanker Set for April

The 7th Armada tanker which is under construction at Besiktas Shipyard will be named Shovket Alekperova, Palmali shipping group announced yesterday.

RS Surveys Construction of Arktika Icebreaker

Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) has performed survey of the forged blanks of a new generation RITM-200 reactor vessel for the lead dual draft nuclear icebreaker Arktika (project 22220).

AMELS Secures Order for AMELS 180

Dutch builder AMELS sold their newbuild AMELS 180 55-metre superyacht in February, which will be delivered in May 2015. Advised by the experts at Burgess in Monaco, the owners opted for a customised design provided by Christian Liaigre.

NMD to Supply Deck Equipment for VARD’s Newbuild

Norwegian Deck Machinery (NDM) has signed a contract with VARD Søviknes for supply of a winch package to their NB 801, a Diving Support and Construction Vessel being built for Harkand Group.

SC Amethyst Joins Sima Charters’ Fleet

The Dutch company Sima Charters successfully delivered a Multi Purpose 66ft Tender, christened SC Amethyst. Built by Sima Charters and Shipinstall, the tender features design and naval architecture by Vripack and is engineered for countless activities in the offshore sector.

Palmali Orders Five Tankers from Armada Shipyard

Palmali Group, a shipping company operating in the Mediterranean, Caspian and Black Seas, has signed a contract with Armada Shipyard for the construction of 5 tankers in accordance with the new series of Armada project RST22M, of DWT 7150, the Group announced yesterday.

Aker Philadelphia Secures Cash for Four Product Tankers

Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, Inc. (APSI) has entered into a loan agreement with Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation (Cat Financial) for a USD 120 million loan facility for construction financing on the four product tankers under contract with Crowley Maritime Corporation (Crowley).

Bergen Sells Two Shipbuilding Projects to Kleven

Bergen Group said in a release today that it has decided to accelerate the process of reducing the Group’s future involvement in the shipbuilding business in favor of a more dedicated focus on offshore related activities.

ESG Delivers MV BRAVANTE VI to Bravante Group

Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. delivered the M/V BRAVANTE VI (Hull 156 ) on Friday February 28, 2014 to Boldini S.A., BRAVANTE GROUP of Brazil.

Lomar Eyes More Container Vessels at Chinese Yards

Lomar, the shipping subsidiary of the Libra Group, has declared further three options to build new container vessels at Chinese shipyards. The company now has over 20 firm newbuilding orders for container ships and bulk carriers within its fleet of over 60 vessels.

Kawasaki Heavy to Build Two PCTCs for UECC

United European Car Carriers (UECC), which is jointly owned by NYK and Wallenius Lines, has signed a contract to construct two dual-fuel LNG Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs).

M/Y CRN 133 Megayacht Hits the Water

On March 3 in Ancona, CRN Spa, which forms part of the Ferretti Group, launched M/Y CRN 133, the 61 metre megayacht designed by the architect Francesco Paszkowski.

VIDEO: Damen Platform Supply Vessel 3300 CD

Shipbuilding is an arduous work, from the very beginning till the moment a vessel hits the water.

First ‘Oblique’ Icebreaker Starts Sea Trials

Arctech Helsinki shipyard began sea trials for the icebreaking rescue vessel Baltika on March 6, 2014.

Afai Southern Ensures Production Quality

The Safety and Quality Management Department (QC) of Afai Southern is strengthening in-process inspection so as to ensure the overall construction quality.

JES Announces New Options

JES International Holdings, through its wholly owned subsidiary Jiangsu New East Marine Engineering Co. Ltd, has signed an option for the construction of further four Newcastle-max bulk carriers.

Imabari Acquires Koyo Dockyard

Imabari Shipbuilding Ltd. has completed the take over of the Koyo Dockyard Co., Ltd.

Seaspan Launches Crane Naming Contest

With Canada’s largest permanent Gantry Crane now safely offloaded at its new North Shore location, Seaspan announced on March 3 that it has partnered with the North Vancouver School District (NVSD) to conduct an official “Crane Naming Contest.”

Drydocks Hands Over MCV Eagle Louisiana

Drydocks World, the leading provider of maritime and offshore services to the shipping, oil, gas and energy sectors, announced the completion and delivery of Eagle Louisiana, the second of two Modular Capture Vessels (MCV) for the U.S.

Cemre Shipyard Splashes Another for Havyard

Turkish shipbuilder, Cemre Shipyard launched a state-of-the-art platform supply vessel (PSV), the Polarsyssel a few days ago.

Austal’s Post-Delivery Service Matures

Austal has been awarded a contract for post-delivery support on USS Jackson (Littoral Combat Ship 6).

Jiangsu Yangzijiang Books Kamsarmax Trio

Paragon Shipping Inc. has entered into shipbuilding contracts with Jiangsu Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Co for three eco-design Kamsarmax drybulk carriers.

Harren & Partner to Equip Its Fleet with DNV GL’s ShipManager

German-based shipowner Harren & Partner will implement the DNV GL business intelligence software systems ShipManager Analyzer and ShipManager QHSE for its entire fleet of 52 vessels.

Aqua-Guard Pens Contract with Damen

Aqua-Guard has signed a contract with Damen Shipyards of Gorinchem, The Netherlands for the supply of two large URO 300Z1 offshore oil skimming systems.