The former Sealift/Frontline Suezmax tanker ‘Marble’, now owned by a subsidiary of Dockwise Ltd., and renamed “Triumph”, has been accepted by Cosco Guangdong Shipyard on April 18, 2008. The conversion into a heavy lift vessel has started immediately by placing the vessel in drydock.

The conversion from a tanker into a heavy lift vessel embodies the complete renewal of the entire midship section after removing the original cargo section.

Construction of the new midship section started October 2007 and is presently reaching the final stage of completion. The new midship section of 130 x 44.5 x 14 mtr., which will replace the old midbody of 174 x 44.5 x 24 mtr., will be joined to the original bow and stern section.

The conversion of the remaining single hull Suezmax tankers to semi- submersible heavy lift vessels is in full progress and the last four (4) vessels will, as earlier indicated, join the fleet during 2008, starting with “Talisman” in May.

Tags: Cosco Guangdong Shipyard, Dockwise Ltd.