North Sea cargo sailship built in 1912 to return to service

Dutch cargo transport company EcoClipper has purchased its first vessel, a North Sea sailing ship originally built in 1912.

De Tukker, formerly named Harle Tief, operated on the North Sea cargo routes for several years until it was repurposed in the 1980s. It then functioned as a training vessel until 2012, when it was removed from service due to maintenance-related issues.

EcoClipper said the ship will be restored to full operating condition for the cargo transport role.

De Tukker has been surveyed and essential work will be carried out to ensure it is up to commercial standard. Restoration work will be done on the hull, a new deckhouse will be built, and the systems and rigging will be upgraded.

The ship is barge-shaped, meaning that it is fairly flat-bottomed, and will be able to carry around 80 cubic metres or 50 to 70 tonnes of cargo. It will also have accommodation for up to 12 trainees.