#NewBulkers- Shipbuilder Ferus Smit whose Dutch yard is according to Ships Monthly to continue constructing further newbuilds for Arklow Shipping.

The yard at Westerbroek has been given an order for a quartet of small handy-sized bulk-carriers of around 16,500dwt each. The first pair of vessels measuring 149.5m by 19.4m are to be delivered in 2018 and the second pair in 2019 respectively.

The order follows a series of ten 'C' class 5,200dwt general cargsoships in which Afloat has previously reported on those so far completed. The last launched been Arklow Castle.

Afloat also adds that the latest series are larger bulkers than the existing ‘W’ class of around 13,900dwt. At this stage though Arklow Wind only remains in service (see report) following sale of sisters to overseas owners.

The W class bulk-carriers dating to more than a decade ago totalled three. They were ASL’s first ships to be built at a yard outside in Europe. The order having gone to a Japanese shipyard.