Ferus Smit has launched the first of two NaabsaMax coastal tankers ordered at its yard in Leer, Germany. Naabsa or “Not Always Afloat But Safely Aground” means the vessel is specially designed for calling niche ports with tidal restrictions, being able to rest on the seabed while (un)loading during low tide.

The 80-metre long tanker will be named Thun Blyth and was ordered by Thun Tankers from Sweden. The ship is 14.99 metres wide and its depth is 9.0 metres. The tanker is powered by a 1950-kW main engine. Eight coated cargo tanks with a total capacity of 4900 m3 are suited to transport oil products and IMO type II chemicals.

Due to Corona restrictions the yard was not open to the public during the launching, but a video was made of the launch. Watch it below.