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First ‘Valiant’ Makes Her Launch Splash for Arklow

6th April 2016

#Valiant – Following our pre-launch coverage of Arklow Valiant, the above footage shows the third Royal Bodewes newbuild make first contact with the water at the Dutch yard for Arklow Shipping, writes Jehan Ashmore.

Newbuilding 723 was launched from the quayside at the yard in Hoogezand, Groningen, last Friday for ASL’s Dutch division, Arklow Shipping Nederland B.V. 

The single-hold 5,150dwat cargoship will became the 17th Dutch-flagged vessel out of the total fleet of 46 ships which are otherwise Irish-flagged.

Notably, she also differs to her completed 5,100dwat Trader sisters, Arklow Vale and Arklow View,  in terms of an efficient and cost-effective straight stem bow design.

She is the first vessel in the Arklow fleet to be named ‘Valiant’ in the series also known as the V class. Over the decades there have been previous V class generations that have carried names among them, Valour, Venture and Villa.

The christening of Arklow Valiant will be performed at a handing over ceremony in the port of Delfzijl that is reached from the inland yard by canal. Delfzijl is where Arklow View was also named.

Unlike last year's launch of leadship Arklow Vale where the naming was carried out at the Hoogezand yard.

Jehan Ashmore

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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.