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Arklow C-Class Cargoship Launched During Dull Skies Yet 'Cloud' Rises Fleet to Almost 60 Ships

17th December 2021
Arklow Cloud during an earlier phase of modular block construction as can be seen the upper superstructure /deckhouse's positioning at Ferus Smit's shipyard in the Netherlands, from where today the newbuild presented a spectular amidships launch into the ‘Winschoterdiep’ canal. See link below for video. Arklow Cloud during an earlier phase of modular block construction as can be seen the upper superstructure /deckhouse's positioning at Ferus Smit's shipyard in the Netherlands, from where today the newbuild presented a spectular amidships launch into the ‘Winschoterdiep’ canal. See link below for video. Credit: FerusSmit-Instagram

Despite dull skies, a spectacular launch took place at a Dutch shipyard this morning of Arklow Shipping's latest newbuild which increases the fleet total to 58 cargoships, writes Jehan Ashmore

The single-hold newbuild Arklow Cloud, a name used for the first time by the Co. Wicklow shipowners, took to the waters with a splash. Such a sight is routine at Ferus Smit's Westerbroek shipyard, yet is always a sight to behold.

Albeit the launch due to pandemic was executed without ceremony and nor open to the public, however spectators could observe the event from the opposite side of the ‘Winschoterdiep’ canal.

As routine at this side of the canal (in the province Groningen) the road is closed off to traffic and pedestrians as the wash from the ship spills over the roadside and runs off down an embankment.

With a yard newbuild number of NB 430, Arklow Cloud also represents the seventh so far in a series of 10 ships of the 'C' class general cargoships built an the inland yard and to a new design ordered for ASL. The combined fleet including Dutch-flagged tonnage as alludded is just shy of sixty ships operating mostly in Europe but also several bulkers trading globally in deep seas. 

Arklow Cloud has a maximized hold volume of 220.000 cft and a carrying capacity over 5,000 deadweight tons (dwt) yet it still falls under the 3,000 gross tons limit. The ship's single hold within a hull of almost 88m is specified to an 1A ice-class notation.

A bulbless bow design provides for a superior performance when operating between various loading drafts and wave-height conditions

Among the typical cargoes will be the transportation of corn, grain, wheat and other bulk commodities in European waters from where propulsion of the 2,999 grt newbuild will involve a 1,740kW MaK engine with a single ducted propeller.

Likewise of the series in service, Arklow Cloud will be Irish flagged and already displays the homeport of Arklow proudly at the stern from where the tug Waterpoort was on station during the amidships launch.

While another red hulled tug attended the ship's bow complete with customary green hull colour associated with Ireland's only large shipowner.

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.