The Wilh. Wilhelmsen Group has launched its 150th anniversary vessel, MV Tønsberg, into operation. The Mark V class is the most sophisticated vessel ever built in the roll-on roll-off segment.
The Mark V vessel is the largest of its kind, with a length of 265 metres offering a cargo volume of 138 000 cubic metres over six fixed and three hoistable decks.
Built for larger, heavier cargo
Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA experienced a strong rebound in its shipping operations last year, with a 25% increase in transported volumes in 2010 compared with 2009. “The market demands new and more effective tonnage, and we foresee the Mark V class as a dynamic driver in its segment”, explains Jan Eyvin Wang.
The entire cargo hold of the MV Tønsberg is arranged for customer’s high and heavy cargo such as excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders and harvesters.
505 tonnes
With a width of 12 metres and safe working load of 505 tonnes, the vessel’s stern ramp offers customers the possibility to ship larger units than ever before. The clear height of the main deck, 7.1 metres, is also unprecedented for this kind of vessel.
Cargo can even be loaded on the weather deck, which has a ramp from the deck below. Three decks can be hoisted by electric winches to provide maximum flexibility and utilisation. MV Tønsberg will commence service in the Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics’ round-the-world trade.
Designed for sustainability
The Mark V will use 15 to 20% less fuel per transported unit than its predecessors, thanks to a optimised hull form and a number of energy saving features such as the streamlined rudder design and duck tail. In the engine room an advanced turbo generator produces electricity from the waste, exhaust heat. In total, these initiatives help to cut emissions significantly.
Four Mark V vessels
A Unitor water ballast water treatment system avoids harmful transfer of micro organisms to the sea. Further, all fuel oil tanks are protected to minimise the risk of leakage in case of grounding or collision.
Four Mark V vessels will be delivered to Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA and its partner Wallenius Lines. The second vessel will be delivered in August and two in 2012.
