German shipowner Carsten Rehder has announced a significant new partnership with Indian shipbuilder Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd.
(GRSE) for the construction of eight CORAL 7500 Multipurpose Dry Cargo Vessels.
The agreement includes an initial order of four vessels with an option for an additional four.
The CORAL 7500 vessels, designed by SEDS, are tailored specifically for the European short-sea trade. They offer high cargo flexibility and are built with the future energy transition in mind.
According to Carsten Rehder, these vessels are optimized to meet the demands of a changing maritime landscape.
Key features of the CORAL 7500 include:
Maximized Cargo Hold: The single cargo hold offers approximately 400,000 cubic feet of capacity, which can be segregated using two bulkheads. These bulkhead panels can also function as tween-decks, enhancing the vessels’ versatility.
Innovative Design: With a bridge-forward layout and a flush aft deck, the vessels are noted for their hatchcoverless (open top) design, making them ideal for transporting project cargo.
Advanced Propulsion: The ships will feature a diesel-mechanical propulsion system equipped with a shaft generator and a controllable pitch propeller. This hybrid setup enables efficient sailing at various speeds, offers an extra power reserve for ice trade (Ice 1A), and is prepared for future battery retrofits. Upon delivery, the vessels will be capable of running on biofuel, supported by an additional bunker station and tank chain.
Future-Proof Main Engine: Supplied by Anglo Belgian Corporation, the main engine is currently the only one in its class approved for methanol and hydrogen retrofits, positioning these vessels at the forefront of sustainable maritime technology.This collaboration between Carsten Rehder and GRSE marks a significant step forward in building versatile, future-ready vessels that cater to the evolving needs of the shipping industry. The first of these innovative ships is set to make waves in the European short-sea trade, exemplifying a commitment to efficiency, flexibility, and environmental sustainability.Stay tuned for more updates on the progress of this groundbreaking project.
