Multipurpose shipping line BBC Chartering has taken delivery of the first newbuilding in its LakerMax series, BBC Leer, from Taizhou Sanfu Heavy Industry, China.
The 13,000 dwt triple decker vessel was delivered to owner Briese Group and will subsequently enter a long-term time charter with BBC Chartering. The company has increased the original order of 10 vessels to 15, which will be delivered through until 2026.
BBC Leer and sister vessels are equipped with two Liebherr LS 250 shipboard cranes, offering a combined lifting capacity of up to 500 tonnes. Bridge and crew accommodation are located at the front of the ship, with the two cranes located portside. This allows for an unobstructed 2,830 sq m of space on the weather deck. The two cargo holds are box shaped and offer room for almost 26,000 cu m of cargo on a floor space of close to 5,000 sq m, when two tween decks are in operation.
Whilst intended for worldwide trading, the design of the BBC LakerMax-series has been optimised to still fit both the St. Lawrence Seaway and Great Lakes. Their 6,000 kW MAN B&W main engine offers eco-friendly speeds between 13 and 15 knots.
“With BBC Leer and her sister vessels, we will be adding a fleet of most modern and versatile multipurpose heavy lift vessels and maintain our capability to serve our clients in worldwide trades with highest efficiency and reliability,” said Ulrich Ulrichs, ceo of BBC Chartering. “Whilst the global multipurpose fleet is ageing, this investment by the Briese Group is a clear commitment to renewing our fleet with modern tonnage and maintaining our market position.”
