#ArklowNewbuilds – Arklow Bank is to be followed by the second of six new 'B'class 4,800 deadweight tons multi-purpose cargoships, with Arklow Bay to be launched early next month, writes Jehan Ashmore.

As previously reported, the newbuilds are on order from Arklow Shipping Ltd at Ferus Smit's Dutch based shipyard in Westerbroek from where the 119m long leadship Arklow Bank was launched last month.

Her typical 'Arklow' green hull shade and that of her sisters will be even more 'green' in that the hull characteristics and innovative 'bulbless' bow shape brings this design a number of 'environmental' advantages.

The B class have longer and sharper waterlines that create less resistance, irrespective of her loading draft. At the same time this shape creates more deadweight and cargo volume within her absolute dimensions. Above the waterline the more slender form will cut gradually through waves, improving performance in rough conditions.

Arklow Bay has a two-hold grain capacity of 9902,6m³ and for bale of 349.706ft³ . Wheat, corn and other bulk-cargo commodities will form as regular shipments for these vessels while operating in north-western European waters. Powerplant is provided by a Mak engine delivering a maximum 13 knots.

The newbuild is due to be delivered to ASL's Dutch based division, Arklow Shipping Netherland B.V. in April.