Eureka Shipping, a provider of sustainable, high-efficiency cement carrier services jointly owned by SMT Shipping and The CSL Group, announced the construction of a state-of-the-art mechanical/pneumatic cement ship for operation on the Great Lakes. The vessel, with a deadweight of 12,500 metric tons, will operate from Canada and is designed to replace two older vessels while maintaining the same cargo capacity.
"Building a ship aligned with eco-friendly principles is a top priority for both Eureka Shipping and our customer,” said Kai Grotterud, managing director of Eureka Shipping, in an April 16 statement issued from Montreal. "Our new cement carrier is expected to contribute significantly to decarbonization by drastically reducing the emissions per metric ton of cargo carried.”
From its propulsion system to its onboard amenities, every aspect of the new vessel's design reflects a dedication to safety, environmental stewardship and operational efficiency, according to Eureka officials. Key features include:
- a diesel-electric propulsion system consisting of four generator sets, providing redundancy for both navigation and cargo operation;
- modern, fuel-efficient engines capable of operating on HVO biofuel to enhance performance and reduce emissions;
- two rudder propellers with 360-degree thrust, plus a powerful bow-thruster, for superior maneuverability and optimized navigation safety;
- energy-saving measures to minimize power consumption, including LED lighting throughout;
- state-of-the-art cargo handling equipment to reduce power usage during loading and unloading operations;
- extensive noise insulations and silencers on machinery and cargo handling equipment;
- prepared for operation on shore power when such power becomes available; and
- high-quality accommodations for officers and crew, prioritizing comfort and well-being.
The new vessel, currently under construction by the Holland Shipyard Group in the Netherlands, is scheduled for delivery in 2025 and will commence operations in the Great Lakes region.
In the interim, prior to the new vessel’s arrival in Canada, MV Sunnanvik, a 8,600 DWT mechanical/pneumatic cement carrier previously operating in Europe, will service its trade routes starting in early April 2024. Equipped with modified discharge equipment tailored to the customer's receiving terminals, the vessel will discharge cargo at rates of up to 1,000 tons per hour.
As part of Eureka's commitment to decarbonization, MV Sunnanvik was fitted with two flexible, vertical “Ventofoil” “wing” sails from Econowind in 2023. These innovative sails harness wind energy to provide additional thrust, contributing to lower emissions. Conditions permitting, they will be tested on the Great Lakes, enhancing the vessel's speed in favorable wind conditions.
MV Sunnanvik holds the distinction of being the first sail-equipped vessel to operate in the Great Lakes.
