CLdN Takes Delivery of Its First Next-Generation RoRo

Luxembourg-based short sea specialist CLdN RoRo has taken delivery of its first newbuilding vessel from the next generation of super RoRos, the MV CELINE.

Originally code named the G9, the 234-meter-long ship will add 8.000 lane meters to the CLdN network, according to the company.

Following a debut voyage from the South Korea’s Hyundai Shipyard, where it was constructed, MV CELINE arrived at its home ports of Zeebrugge and Rotterdam on October 25, according to AIS data provided by Marine Traffic.

The new ship will operate on a rotational schedule, including both ports of Zeebrugge and Rotterdam; Dublin, Ireland and London/Killingholme, UK.

“We are delighted to be able to welcome the eagerly anticipated arrival of the first of 12 vessels of our previously announced fleet enhancement strategy,” a spokesperson for CLdN said.

“With the CELINE’s green credentials, including being LNG ready and offering unparalleled flexibility, we envisage CLdN is poised to commence delivery of their ambitions,” the spokesperson added.

The second 8,000 lane meter vessel under the order is sceduled to join its owner this year.

In September 2015, CLdN Ro-Ro unveiled its expansion program, looking to order up to 12 new vessels, of which six have been confirmed until now.

In March 2016, the firm ordered two RoRo vessels from Croatian shipbuilder Uljanik, with an option for further four. Two additional 5,400 lane meter vessels were ordered from Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), with options for a further four of the same class, in February 2017.

CLdN operates 24 RoRo vessels, offering sailings between the ports of Zeebrugge, Rotterdam, London, Killingholme, Dublin, Gothenburg, Esbjerg, Hirtshals, Santander and Porto.