Final Newbuild of 10 Ship-Series Launched for Arklow Shipping's 'C' Class Cargoships

3rd October 2022

Newbuild Arklow Crest, the final 'C' class general cargoship which was launched at a Dutch shipyard Credit: ShipyardFerusSmit-Instagram

The launch of Arklow Crest has culminated in the final newbuild of a ten-ship series for Irish shipowners, when the short sea trader took to the waters at a Dutch shipyard last Friday, writes Jehan Ashmore.

With a newbuild number of 436, Arklow Crest slid into the canal at Ferus Smit's shipyard in Westerbroek which was contracted to build the new design cargo vessels for Arklow Shipping.

The Co. Wicklow shipowners having received the leadship of the series, Arklow Cadet which took place in 2016. During this year the shipyard completed a trio of the 'C' class general cargoships with Arklow's Cloud, Coast and Cove and all currently in service.

All but one of the 10 'C' class were given ship names never previously used by vessels of the ASL fleet which was formed in 1966.

Following sea trials and delivery to ASL the Arklow Crest will be able to provide clients a maximized hold volume of 220.000 cft and a carrying capacity over 5,000 deadweight tons. This makes the almost 88m long vessel still fall under the 3,000 gross tons limit.

The single hold cargoship has an 1A iceclass notation and for propulsion, this is generated from a 1,740kW MaK engine and using a single ducted propeller.

A typical bread and butter cargo will be in the carriage of grain.

Likewise of the C class series, Arklow Crest is registered at its east coast homeport and will represent the newest merchant ship of the Irish-flagged fleet.

Published in Arklow Shipping, Shipyards

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.