New Chinese-built Ro-Ro completes maiden voyage

A new Ro-Ro vessel built in China sailed on its maiden operational voyage on Wednesday, January 8.

Luyuan No 2 is the second vessel in a series of two Ro-Ro vessels designed specifically for the transport of electric vehicles. Sister ship Luyuan No 1 completed its own maiden voyage in late December 2024.

The newbuilds are being used to transport vehicles between Zhanjiang Hai'an New Port and Haikou Xiuying Port via the Hainan Strait. Beginning in the spring of 2025, at least 20 voyages will depart from each of the two ports every day, and additional voyages may be included depending on operational requirements.

Each ship has a beam of 28 metres and a bow ramp for loading and unloading of vehicles. The vessels differ in length, gross tonnage and capacity, with the 125.8-metre, 6,700GT Luyuan No 1 being able to transport 186 vehicles and the 129.8-metre, 7,400GT Luyuan No 2 having space for 196 vehicles.