First offshore wind RoRo launched in China
The RoRo vessel design has been developed specifically for the offshore wind market
(Source: Concordia Damen)
The first of two project cargo RoRo vessels, Rotra Futura, has been launched at Jiangsu Zhenjiang Shipyard in China. Together with a sister ship, Rotra Horizon, the vessels have been developed in a partnership between shipbuilder Concordia Damen, short sea and project cargo shipowner, Amasus, heavy lift transport specialist, deugro Danmark, marine engineering consultancy DEKC Maritime, and wind power developer, Siemens Gamesa.
The five partners intend to tap into the rapidly expanding market in offshore wind energy logistics and the transport of ever-larger wind farm components. The two vessels have been developed specifically for this purpose.
The 168m-long vessels, with bridge and accommodation located at the bow, are based on earlier Rotra concept vessels – Rotra Mare and Rotra Vente. These vessels were built by Concordia Damen and have been operating successfully since 2016.
The latest pair of Rotra ships have been designed to maximise cargo capacity with scope to handle larger and more powerful offshore wind turbines and components. They have also been designed to meet the sustainability standards of the future. Their hybrid propulsion systems comply with the IMO’s highest Tier 3 requirements. Wärtsilä main engines consume about 15% less fuel than others of a similar size and a waste heat recovery system provides additional energy savings.
Equipped with a ramp, the two RoRo vessels will be capable of carrying larger components. Three Liebherr cranes will enable turbine blades to be stowed in three tiers, providing more capacity and loading flexibility.
Chris Kornet, Concordia Damen managing director, said: “For the Rotra Futura and Rotra Horizon, we, along with our partners, have focused extensively on energy savings and an environmentally friendly design. The aerodynamic and hydro-optimised hull design, combined with a special low-resistance coating, contributes to lower fuel consumption.
“By continuing to focus on innovation and collaboration with our partners, suppliers and customers,” he continued, “we aim for Concordia Damen to remain a reliable player in the maritime sector, both for the inland shipping and the offshore wind industry.”
The Rotra Futura is expected to be delivered to Amasus in 2025.
