Arklow's Latest Newbuild Enters Dutch-German Estuary this Afternoon to Start Sea Trials

18th September 2023

Newbuild Arklow Rambler, of the Eco-Trader 6,800dwt / ‘R’ series which Afloat tracked enter the Ems estuary this afternoon prior to heading to Emshaven, to begin sea trials in the North Sea. In the background the next newbuild in the series on the quayside at the Dutch shipyard of Royal Bodewes. Credit: RoyalBodewes-facebook

Two months after launching, Arklow Rambler the third of seven Eco-Traders cargoships was towed from a Dutch inland shipbuilder and is this afternoon bound for the open sea, writes Jehan Ashmore.

The 104.93m length overall (LOA) dry-cargo ship built by Royal Bodewes shipyard at Hoogazand near Groningen, departed in the late morning on a tow to Delfzijl on the Ems estuary.

Towage duties of the 6,800 deadweight tonnes Arklow Rambler were carried out by the Waterpoort which has performed similar such tasks for many newbuilds ordered by Arklow Shipping Ltd. The newbuild is Irish flagged and likewise of the series so far completed.

Approximately two and half hours later the tow had reached the Port of Delfzijl located on the Dutch side of the estuary shared with Germany.

Waterpoort then continued as an escort of the Arklow Rambler which headed out of Delfzijl along the Zeehavenkannaal before entering the estuary as Afloat tracked at around 1615hrs (Irish time) today.

Arklow Rambler under its own engine power, is now underway to the Port of Emshaven and from there will use the port as a base in between shipbuilder sea trials.

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.