Wärtsilä has been awarded the contract to supply a total propulsion package for a new semi-submersible heavy lift vessel. With an overall length of 270 metres, this ship is the largest of its type ever to be built.

The scope of supply for the contract specifies two Wärtsilä 6L38 engines and two Wärtsilä 12V38 engines for the ship's main propulsion, and one Wärtsilä 6L20 auxiliary engine. Wärtsilä will also supply the reduction gear system, two controllable pitch propellers, two retractable thrusters and one bow thruster. The equipment has been ordered by Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. Ltd who will build the ship for the owner and operator, Dockwise Shipping BV, the Netherlands-based provider of transportation and logistics services for heavy marine applications. The vessel is scheduled to be launched in the fourth quarter of 2012.

The unique design of the vessel represents a new generation in heavy lift transport ships. It is an entirely fresh concept that is capable of transporting complete Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units for the offshore industry.

In announcing the award of this contract, Arthur Boogaard, General Manager, Business Sales, Wärtsilä Ship Power commented: "This is a major project and a very important vessel that will be operating around the world. It is the largest ship of its type ever built with a unique and new design, and it is, therefore, a great honour for Wärtsilä to have been selected to supply the entire propulsion solution and other equipment. Our strong reputation as the industry's leading systems integrator was a critical factor in the selection process. We have also enjoyed a long term relationship with Dockwise, and have successfully partnered them in other major projects."

Dockwise Shipping BV currently operates a fleet of 19 semi-submersible heavy transport vessels, which is the largest and most versatile fleet of its type in the world.

Tags: Wartsila