Dutch shipping company Spliethoff has placed an order with Wuhu Shipyard in China for the construction of a new series of eight multi-purpose vessels, with an option for two additional vessels. Deliveries of the L-type vessels are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2028.
These vessels are specifically designed for transporting a variety of dry cargo, including paper products, bulk cargo, project cargo, and containers. The Finnish/Swedish 1A Ice-Classed vessels will measure 203.25 meters in length and 28.25 meters in width, with a maximum draft of 10.5 meters. They will have a total capacity of approximately 33,700 m³ and a deadweight (DWAT) of 28,600 metric tons, making them the largest in the Spliethoff fleet.
The energy-efficient vessels feature slender hull lines and are designed to accommodate future fuel options. Each vessel will have its bridge located at the front and will be equipped with five side loaders and three cranes, each with a capacity of 150 metric tons, combinable to a 300 metric ton safe working load (SWL). The unobstructed deck design allows for the transport of large-dimensional cargo.
“We are confident that these energy-efficient vessels will enhance our service to clients in the future. We are proud of this significant step forward and believe that the L-type will play an important role in the sustainable future of our company,” said Michael van den Heuvel, CCO of Spliethoff.