New Chinese-built Ro-Ro pair enter service on Hainan Strait

Two newly delivered Ro-Ro vessels in a series have officially entered operational service with China's COSCO Shipping on the Hainan Strait between the ports of Zhanjiang Hai'an and Haikou Xiuying.

Luyuan No 1 and Luyuan No 2 were both designed specifically for the transport of electric vehicles. 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 onto a single cargo deck. COSCO Shipping said their vehicle capacities are at least 60 per cent greater than those of existing Ro-Pax ferries operating on the same route.

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.

Construction of the two vessels was completed in compliance with China Classification Society rules.