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Fifth Eco-Trader for Arklow Shipping Launched with Just Two More Newbuilds to Go

29th January 2024
Making a splash, Arklow Resolve takes to the waterway at Dutch shipyard Royal Bodewes, as the fifth Eco-Trader is launched out of seven 6,800dwt capacity cargo-ships.
Making a splash, Arklow Resolve takes to the waterway at Dutch shipyard Royal Bodewes, as the fifth Eco-Trader is launched out of seven 6,800dwt capacity cargo-ships. Credit: royalbodewes/facebook

Once again Arklow Shipping has had Dutch shipbuilder, Royal Bodewes launch an Eco-Trader of their 6,800dwt design series, writes Jehan Ashmore.

Arklow Resolve with a newbuild no. (NB: 825) at the Hoogezand yard, near Groningen, is were the launch on Friday took place at one of Bodewes three production sites. This newest Eco-Trader represents the fifth so far of seven of the series on order for the Irish client.

The morning transverse launch onto the Winschoterdiep Canal of the almost 105m multi-purpose dry-cargo ship with double side-skin construction, follows the 4,145 gross tonnes Arklow Ranger which as Afloat recently reported made its maiden sailing. This involved the 11 knot capable short-sea trader make a passage from Emshaven, Netherlands to within Norway's Arctic Circle.

As for the rest of the operational Eco-Traders/ R-class series, Arklow’s Rambler, Rally and 'leadship' Racer was launched in December, 2022 and was delivered to ASL almost a year ago, and was in service, starting with a maiden port of call to Spain.

When the two-hold Arklow Resolve is completed, the newbuild is to join the 38 Irish-flagged fleet that comprises Arklow Shipping Ltd. This in addition to 19 vessels that belong to Arklow Shipping Nederland B.V. based in Rotterdam.

Combined the fleet, mostly of short-sea traders that serve in northern Europe and bulk-carriers further overseas, total 57 dry-cargo ships. Of the bulk-carriers, this involves six M-class and two larger twins of the S-series.

Published in Arklow Shipping
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.