Singapore-based Swire Shipping has placed an order for eight new container vessels at Guangzhou Wenchong Shipyard, part of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC).
As informed, the units will be the company’s largest boxship newbuilds to date in terms of deadweight tonnage and container capacity.
To be designed by Shanghai Merchant Ship Design & Research Institute (SDARI), the vessels will feature a deadweight of 30,450-33,000 tons and a container capacity of 2,350-2,750 TEUs.
“Our vessels will feature a modern integrated bridge design and will be delivered with VSAT internet connectivity,” the company said.
“They will have enhanced cargo capability, including two holds fitted with cell guide stoppers and strengthened tank tops to enable their use in multiple roles, as well as strengthened hatch covers to allow project cargo to be carried on deck,” Swire Shipping added.
The company further said that efforts have been made to reduce the ships’ environmental footprint. The hull shape is optimized for fuel efficiency, with LED lighting to be fitted throughout.
The first vessel from the batch, Changsha, is scheduled to be delivered in late 2019.
Swire Shipping is the brand name for all liner shipping services operated by The China Navigation Company (CNCo). It offers offer shipping links between over 130 ports in Asia, the Pacific Islands, Australia, New Zealand, North America, Europe, the Middle East and the Indian Sub Continent.