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Ninth Out of 10th Ship Takes on 'V' Name for Arklow's Dutch Newbuild Launched Today

20th February 2018
The newest addition to Arklow's expanding mixed flagged cargoship fleet, the Arklow Viking which at time of writing was only launched just hours ago! The newest addition to Arklow's expanding mixed flagged cargoship fleet, the Arklow Viking which at time of writing was only launched just hours ago! Credit: Royal Bodewes - twitter

#Ports&Shipping - The newest cargoship launched for Arklow Shipping took place this morning at the Dutch yard of Royal Bodewes which so far has completed eight sisters, writes Jehan Ashmore.

Arklow Viking, yard No. 729 was launched at 10.00hrs and forms the ninth out of 10 ordered of the Eco-Trader 5150 series designed in-house by the yard of Royal Bodewes. The inland yard in Hoogezand in located in the north-east of the Netherlands.

The Arklow Viking has a length overall (LOA) of 89m and likewise each of the sisters measure in at 2,999 gross registered tonnage. The figure though referred in the name of the 5150 series is that of deadweight total. Ships under this design series are also known as the 'V' class given the vessels begin with that letter. The previous sister was named Arklow Venus.   

At the stern the Arklow Viking is given a port of registry in Rotterdam. The major port is where ASL's division in the Netherlands, Arklow Shipping B.V. is based.  

The newbuild when completed will likewise take a repositioning journey along the canal network to Delfzijl. Invariably from there the new shortsea trader will be based for builders sea trials off Emshavn in the North Sea.

Ships from both the Irish and Dutch flagged fleet are commonplace in Irish and UK waters. In addition to trading throughout western Europe between Iberia and Scandinavia.

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.