The launch ceremony for IHC Merwede's 30,000m³ trailing suction hopper dredger 'Congo River' took place on January 21 at IHC's shipyard in Krimpen aan den IJssel, the Netherlands.
The vessel was built for DEME Group and will be one of the biggest vessels in the fleet when it is commissioned mid-2011. With a relatively low draught when fully loaded, 'Congo River' will be able to manoeuvre easily in shallow waters, making it suitable for working in ports as well as for long-distance sand transportation.
Fitted with a deep suction dredging installation, the 'Congo River' can dredge to depths greater than 100 metres. It also features a one-man bridge operation.
