With autumn in progress, so too is the newest Eco-Trader, the Arklow Rover, which, having been launched in July, was delivered recently to Arklow Shipping Ltd, writes Jehan Ashmore.
Arklow Rover marks the final of the seven-strong 6,800 dwt / R class series of cargo ships that completed sea trials and was handed over to the east coast shipowner. The Irish flagged short-sea newbuild notably uses the last MaK engine ever installed, according to its Dutch shipbuilder, Royal Bodewes.
Measuring 104.98m in length overall (LOA), the newbuild has two cargo-holds which are equipped with two portable bulkheads along with pontoon type hatch covers. Among the dry cargoes that the minibulker will transport range from grain to the carriage of generals and bulk commodities, including those classified under IMO regulations.
The lead ship Arklow Racer, which was launched from Royal Bodewes shipyard in Hoogezand near Groningen, took place on 16th December, 2022. Since then, the series have all been launched onto the Winschoterdiep, involving a customary transverse launch into the adjacent canal, which provides a spectacle for onlookers!
As of this morning was tracked the Arklow Rover, having on Tuesday departed Eemshaven in the north-east of the Netherlands made a passage off the Jutland Peninsula before arriving today at the Danish port of Vordingborg Vesthavn.
The port is located on a small island off Funen (Fyn), which is the Scandinavian nation's second largest island.
