First contract signed for new Hopper Dredger Series of Damen
On 7 July 2005, Damen Shipyards Group has signed a contract for the first vessel of a newly developed standardized Hopper Dredger Series.
The client for the new dredger is the French group GIE Dragages Ports and it will be built at Damen Shipyards Galati in Rumania.
The vessel is of the type 'HD700-G' and will be equipped with a large grab crane for dredging operations.
It will have a semi diesel-electric propulsion system consisting of two main generators driven by the two propulsion engines.
The engines will also directly drive two azimuth stern thrusters with controllable pitch propellers.
Together with the two bow thrusters, these stern thrusters will keep the vessel in position and enable the vessel to dredge with the grab crane without assistance of piles and / or anchors.
The vessel will have a maximum speed of about 12 knots.
For the crew there will be a fully air-conditioned accommodation for 8 persons, divided over two decks. The accommodation is clearly divided in a daily operations area and a relaxing area.
The operations area includes a changing room, engine control room, office, mess room and a galley, all located close to the staircase with direct access to the wheelhouse.
The relaxing area contains 6 single, and 1 double cabin. The accommodation is completed with several stores. All cabins have their own sanitary, consisting of a toilet, shower and washbasin.
The large wheelhouse has a front control position with separate position for the dredge master and the officer on the wheel, all with all round view. The closed bridge wings complete the all round view.
Construction is expected to commence in the autumn of 2005 and delivery is scheduled for early 2007.
Source: Damen Shipyards Group