Second Arklow Newbuild Not to Have Official Launch Ceremony

11th December 2015

#NoOfficial - Arklow View, second of 10 newbuilds ordered for Arklow Shipping’s Dutch division is due to be launched next week, albeit there will be no official christening ceremony, writes Jehan Ashmore.

According to Royal Bodewes, the yard in the Netherlands has decided that no launching ceremony will take place so not to disrupt the work carried out at the busy inland shipbuilding facility. The yard located in Hoogezand on the outskirts of Groningen, will during the launch be closed off to third parties.

Last month, the fore and aft sections of the newbuild which has a distinctive bow design to improve on fuel efficiency was joined to complete the 89m hull which has a hold capacity of 6258m3 / 221,000ft3.

In September, leadship of the Royal Bodewes 5,100dwt Trader (V-class) cargoship series, Arklow Vale was given a christening ceremony with guests in attendance. For a video, click here as she was slid sideways into an adjoining canal.

The change to launch proceedings, however will not stop the repeat method as Arklow View (yard number 722) will too be slid amidships to meet the water for the first time.

As previously reported, Arklow Vale, following sea trials, made her maiden voyage from Delfzijl to Ghent.

Since then, it is understood that the 2,999 gross tonnes vessel made a first commercial passage from the Belgium port to reach Pasaia, in northern Spain on 22 November.

Published in Arklow Shipping, Ports & Shipping

Published in Arklow Shipping

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About The Author

Jehan Ashmore

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Jehan Ashmore is a marine correspondent, researcher and photographer, specialising in Irish ports, shipping and the ferry sector serving the UK and directly to mainland Europe. Jehan also occasionally writes a column, 'Maritime' Dalkey for the (Dalkey Community Council Newsletter) in addition to contributing to UK marine periodicals.

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About Arklow Shipping

Arklow Shipping Limited, one of Ireland's leading shipping companies, has marked over 50 years of operation following its establishment in 1966.

The company, which began with a fleet of seven ships, has grown steadily over the years and now boasts a fleet of 59 vessels.

The company was founded by Captains James Tyrrell, Michael Tyrrell, and Victor Hall, who collaborated to create an umbrella company to operate their ships. This move allowed them to reduce overheads and strengthen their position in the market. The original fleet comprised seven ships, namely Tyrronall, Murell, Marizell, Valzell, Kilbride, River Avoca, and Avondale, all of varying sizes.

The shipping industry in Ireland underwent a significant transformation in the 1960s, with the replacement of traditional auxiliary schooners with modern crafts.

Arklow Shipping was at the forefront of this change, and the founders recognized the need for a new approach to shipping in Ireland. They built a company that could adapt to the changing market demands, and this has been a key factor in the company's continued growth.

Over the years, Arklow Shipping has bought, sold, and built ships, facing the challenges and opportunities that come with operating in the shipping industry. Despite these challenges, the company has remained committed to meeting market demand and providing high-quality services to its clients.

Today, Arklow Shipping is a leading player in the shipping industry, with a strong reputation for reliability and professionalism. The company's success story is a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders, who laid the foundation for a company that has stood the test of time.