VESSEL REVIEW | Sihang Yongxing – Large semi-submersible transport barge enters service in China

China’s Jiangmen Hangtong Shipping Industry recently handed over a new shallow-draught, semi-submersible heavy transport vessel built to a design by CCCC Fourth Navigation Bureau.

Sihang Yongxing is classed by China Classification Society, which claims the vessel is the largest flat shallow-draught semi-submersible transport barge currently in operation. The newbuild has an LOA of 164 metres, a beam of 65 metres, a depth of 10.2 metres, a deadweight tonnage of 45,000, and an open deck with a total area of 10,660 square metres.

One notable feature is the smart ballast system, which automatically adjusts ballast to ensure proper weight distribution when the vessel is partially submerged up to a depth of 26.8 metres during cargo operations.

The vessel meets the requirements of unlimited navigation area operation, and due to the shallow draught, it can also enter ports or estuaries with low water depth. The vessel also enjoys a greater operating range compared to conventional large barges, enabling navigation and loading/offloading in deeper offshore waters.

The aft tower on the open deck has a connection that can be moved by hydraulic jacking and slide rail devices if necessary, enabling the transport of large deck cargo such as offshore platforms, prefabricated components, subsea equipment, and disabled ships.

Sihang Yongxing will initially be operated in the waters of the Greater Bay Area between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau, where it will support marine construction activities.

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