Arklow's 'Newbuild' to take Sea Trials on Dutch-German Border

9th November 2015

#ASLseaTrials - Arklow Vale, the leadship newbuild of the latest series of ‘V’ class cargoships on order to Arklow Shipping’s Dutch division is to carry out sea-trials tomorrow, writes Jehan Ashmore.

The newbuild left the inland building yard of Royal Bodewes in Hoogezand, Groningen which is located in the north-east of the lowlands nation and is on her way down a series of connecting canals to Delfzijl. From there the Arklow Vale is to enter the River Eems estuary on the Dutch-German border which flows into the Wadden Sea.

Arklow Vale is built to a design of a Royal Bodewes 5,100dwt Trader Series in which 10 in total are on order.

In our last report, at that stage Arklow Vale was constructed at only module stage and with main sections yet to be joined up to complete the hull. The bow of the hull features a straight stem bow to reduce wave impact and reduce fuel through energy-efficiencies.

Arklow Vale was launched in September and in the customary fashion with a spectacular sideways launch. This resulted with a massive splash as the hull entered the canal for the first time much to the joy of yard workers and staff, owner-officials and spectators alike.

It is understood, Arklow Vale is owned by Avoca Shipping B.V. the Netherlands and will be operated Arklow Shipping Nederland B.V. based in Rotterdam.

The major port is where both newbuilds are registered, while the majority Irish flagged fleet are registered at their homeport of Arklow, Co. Wicklow.

Published in Arklow Shipping, Ports & Shipping

Published in Arklow Shipping

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About The Author

Jehan Ashmore

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Jehan Ashmore is a marine correspondent, researcher and photographer, specialising in Irish ports, shipping and the ferry sector serving the UK and directly to mainland Europe. Jehan also occasionally writes a column, 'Maritime' Dalkey for the (Dalkey Community Council Newsletter) in addition to contributing to UK marine periodicals.

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About Arklow Shipping

Arklow Shipping Limited, one of Ireland's leading shipping companies, has marked over 50 years of operation following its establishment in 1966.

The company, which began with a fleet of seven ships, has grown steadily over the years and now boasts a fleet of 59 vessels.

The company was founded by Captains James Tyrrell, Michael Tyrrell, and Victor Hall, who collaborated to create an umbrella company to operate their ships. This move allowed them to reduce overheads and strengthen their position in the market. The original fleet comprised seven ships, namely Tyrronall, Murell, Marizell, Valzell, Kilbride, River Avoca, and Avondale, all of varying sizes.

The shipping industry in Ireland underwent a significant transformation in the 1960s, with the replacement of traditional auxiliary schooners with modern crafts.

Arklow Shipping was at the forefront of this change, and the founders recognized the need for a new approach to shipping in Ireland. They built a company that could adapt to the changing market demands, and this has been a key factor in the company's continued growth.

Over the years, Arklow Shipping has bought, sold, and built ships, facing the challenges and opportunities that come with operating in the shipping industry. Despite these challenges, the company has remained committed to meeting market demand and providing high-quality services to its clients.

Today, Arklow Shipping is a leading player in the shipping industry, with a strong reputation for reliability and professionalism. The company's success story is a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders, who laid the foundation for a company that has stood the test of time.