The new generation of 10,000TEU container vessels contracted in China by Seaspan represents major improvements in energy efficiency, cargo capacity, operational efficiency and emission reductions, according to classification society Det Norske Veritas (DNV)
The new features have been developed in a collaboration between Seaspan, the Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group, MARIC and DNV. The order for seven 10,000TEU container vessels plus 18 options signed in Shanghai on June 8 is the biggest ever container contract entered into in China. The vessels will be built to DNV class.
The Seaspan container ship hull lines have been optimised for a speed range of 18 to 22 knots. In this range, the fuel consumption has been reduced by 16 to 27 percent compared to contemporary similar-size ship series presently operated by the industry.
Compared to current 10,000TEU container vessels in operation or presently being built, DNV said the improvements due to new design features are substantial. The cargo capacity is increased by 10 percent while the fuel consumption is reduced by 20 percent. The new hull design enables the vessels to carry minimum amounts of ballast water while in operation. The vessels are designed to reduce the emissions to air by approximately 20 percent in order to meet the future regulatory emission requirements. This follows Seaspan's three-year SAVER (Seaspan Action on Vessel Energy Reduction) programme aimed at improving cargo uplift, reducing fuel consumption and improving operational performance.
"The SAVER 10,000TEU vessels embody Seaspan's long-term focus on and philosophy of providing the market with increasingly efficient vessels and retaining Seaspan's leadership in this area. We were leaders in introducing post-8,000TEU vessels, we promoted slow steaming back in 2006 and we are now presenting a next-generation product that provides for a paradigm shift in the performance of the larger-size container ships," said Peter Curtis, Vice President of Seaspan Ship Management.
"In this economic climate, where it really is a buyer's market, the time is ripe to push for technological improvements. We are fortunate to have found a like-minded shipyard and design partners in Maric and DNV," said Mr Curtis.