European short-sea operator Wilson has signed a significant contract for the construction of six Conoship’s 3,800 dwt future-proof newbuildings with a focus on environmental benefits, flexibility, and efficiency.
The contract includes an option for eight more vessels, making a total of 14. This order is said to underscore Wilson’s commitment to a sustainable and forward-looking maritime industry.
Conoship’s 3,800 dwt is an innovative general cargo vessel for the short-sea shipping trade. The powering and propulsion of the vessel is by means of electric motors in combination with diesel generator sets. The propeller has a large diameter ensuring, in combination with a ConoDuctTail and the optimised hull lines, the best possible efficiency, and lowest possible fuel consumption. The design provides the possibility of an easy conversion of the type of fuel in the future. The artist’s renderings of the vessels show them fitted iwth twin Econowind sails at the bow end.
Wilson and Conoship believe flexibility is key, and the newbuildings are designed to adapt to a wide range of fuel and energy types going forward. The contracted newbuildings will reduce environmental impact and enhance efficiency. The vessels are designed to meet and surpass environmental standards required in today’s maritime industry and are seen as a step towards further reduction of the shipping carbon footprint.
The vessels will be constructed at Cochin Shipyard, in Kerala, India with scheduled delivery by early 2025.