Last week, the Norwegian Breakaway completed its journey from the Meyer Shipyard in Papenburg down the Ems to Eemshaven, the Netherlands. For the 39.7 m wide and 324 m long Norwegian Breakaway this is quite a navigational challenge.
On Wednesday 13 March the team captained by Thomas Teigte manoeuvered the ship safely and without problems over the Ems to Eemshaven with the help of modern technology and after computer simulation training. The water level of 2.42 + NN (level Gandersum) allowed a safe transfer of the vessel, which has a depth of about 8 meters. Within 24 hours the ship passed the narrow passages of the Meyer Werft lock, the Friesenbridge, the Jann-Berghaus bridge and the Emssperrwerk in Gandersum.
The operation was supported by the EMS pilots and the Water and Shipping Administration and the NLWKN.
Firm Tug Connection
It was the first time a firm connection was deployed between the ship and tugs. A pontoon in front of the ship and an adapter at the stern of the ship ensured the tug was firmly connected to the ship. Through this connection, the tug was able to effectively support the manoeuvers, as evidenced by experiments in the ship simulator. In addition, the connection made it easier to manoeuvre the ship and resulted in increased safety.
After a few short sea trials, the ship departed for Bremerhaven. The extensive sea trials are planned at the end of March. The Norwegian Breakaway is expected to visit Rotterdam on 26 April.
Watch the videos below.
Picture: The Norwegian Breakaway (by Meyer Werft)
