Today Nantong Mingde Heavy Industry Group held the keel-laying ceremony of two 29.800 DWT Great Lakes Self-unloading Bulk Carriers (MD153 and MD161) which are being built for Canada’s Algoma Central Corporation.
The first steel for two great lakes self-unloading bulk carriers was cut on July 10th, at the shipyard’s fabrication workshop.
These new Equinox Class vessels will be able to carry more cargo and move faster than the existing ships which they will replace and require less fuel which means lower fuel costs and emissions. Upon their arrival, they will be chartered to Seaway Marine Transport (SMT) and SMT will be the operator and manager of these ships.
The first ship is expected to enter service in 2013.
[mappress]
Shipbuilding Tribune Staff, October 19, 2012; Image: mdship