Amsterdam-based shipowner Spliethoff is expanding its fleet with a series of the so-called L-type multipurpose vessels in China.
The company has placed an order with Wuhu Shipyard in China for the construction of a new series of eight multipurpose vessels.
Furthermore, the owner has secured an option for two additional vessels.
This new series of vessels, with a total capacity of about 33,700 m3 and a deadweight of 28,600 mt, making them the largest vessels in the Spliethoff fleet, will be delivered starting the first quarter of 2028.
The L-type vessels are specially designed for the transportation of various dry cargo types, including paper products, bulk cargo, project cargo and containers.
These Finnish/Swedish 1A ice-classed vessels will measure 203.25 m in length, 28.25 m in width, and will have a maximum draft of 10.5 m.
They will feature slender hull lines and will be prepared for the use of future fuels, the company said.
Meanwhile, with the bridge located at the front, the vessels will be equipped with five lifts (side loaders) and three cranes with a capacity of 150 mt each, combinable to 300 mt SWL.
As it is reported, the deck of these vessels is large and free from obstructions, making it suitable for cargo with large dimensions.
“We are convinced that we will have secured the excellent service to our clients for the future and look forward to welcoming these energy-efficient vessels into our fleet,” said the company’s CCO Michael van den Heuvel.
“We are proud of this step forward and believe that the L-type will play an important role in the sustainable future of our company,” he added.
