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Shipping Review: Foggy Arklow Launch, DFDS Celebrate 150th, Brexit ‘Special Port Zones’ & Sligo Harbour Traffic Up

17th December 2016

#ShippingReview - Jehan Ashmore reviews the shipping scene from among the following stories of recent weeks.

Particularly foggy conditions took place at the launch of Arklow's newest dry-cargo vessel, Arklow Valour in The Netherlands. This is the fourth Eco-Trader 5,150dwt ship built of 10 ‘V’ series ordered.

Ferry and freight giant, DFDS celebrated its 150th anniversary, the Danish-owned operator includes container feeder links between Ireland, Belgium and Netherlands through subsidiary DFDS Logistics. 

In response to potential administrative complications from Brexit, the British Ports Association (BPA) has called for UK government to classify ports as ‘special port zones’. 

Short-sea operator Scotline acquire tonnage as Scot Leader joins fleet that are regular Wicklow Port callers. Both operator and port are heavily engaged in trading timber cargo.

Arundo is one of 18 cargoships so far in 2016 that docked in Sligh Harbour an increase of 18% in traffic compared to last year.

Chris Hazzard, Ports Minister Northern Ireland says a new departmental ‘Brexit Planning Team’ has actively engaged with Lisahally (Foyle Port) London/Derry since the end of summer.

Jehan Ashmore

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.