Royal Niestern Sander shipyard is building the EasyMax CO2 carrier for Wagenborg and INEOS. The aft ship was moved to the quay side last week, reports Wagenborg on its website. It will be the first dedicated offshore CO2 transport vessel built in Europe.
In November 2024, INEOS and Royal Wagenborg signed a multi-year contract for the CO2 carrier, which is based on Wagenborg’s EasyMax series of vessels. The contract marks a significant step towards advancing carbon capture and storage (CCS) within the European Union. As with the other EasyMax vessels, Royal Niestern Sander is building the ship.
This purpose-built CO2 carrier will facilitate large-scale transport of CO2 to the Greensand storage site in the Danish North Sea, led by INEOS with its partners Harbour Energy and Nordsøfonden.
Also read: INEOS and Royal Wagenborg to build EasyMax CO2 carrier
Transport of the aft ship
The aft ship, which houses the main engine and other essential systems, was carefully transported by means of self-propelled modular trailers (SPMTs) to the quay side. This operation required precise coordination and expertise, highlighting Wagenborg’s extensive experience in heavy transport and shipbuilding logistics.
With the aft ship now in place, the next construction phases will involve integrating key components and preparing for the vessel’s upcoming launch mid May. This progress brings us closer to delivering a ship that will set new standards in the maritime industry.
Also read: Svanehøj to supply CO2 pumps for Wagenborg’s LCO2 carrier
EasyMax design
The EasyMax 14300 was developed by Conoship International BV, Groningen, in close cooperation with Royal Wagenborg and Royal Niestern Sander as a next generation open top (hatchcoverless) multi-purpose vessel with a maximum hold volume, maximum deadweight and minimal fuel consumption within the size limitations of the vessel. The ability to sail “open top” in combination with the bridge forward of the ship enhances the vessel’s flexibility for high and exceptional cargo.
The ice-strengthened EasyMax is a relatively large vessel with an energy-efficient propulsion system. Moreover, the hull shape is optimised for different draughts resulting in an ultra-low Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and extremely low fuel consumption (9 tonnes per 24-hour period at a service speed of 11 knots).
The relatively low fuel consumption is also due to the construction above water. The vessel is lighter, with a more favourable centre of gravity position and has less wind resistance.
Also read: Wagenborg orders sixth EasyMax at Niestern Sander
Six EasyMax vessels
Up to the order for the CO2 carrier, Wagenborg had ordered a total of six EasyMax vessels. The first EasyMax was the Egbert Wagenborg, delivered in 2017. It was followed by the Máxima in 2021, and the Amalia in 2024. In November, Niestern Sander handed over the EasyMax 4, Alexia. The EasyMax 5 was ordered in January of 2024 and is expected to be delivered by the end of 2025. Number six was ordered in October and is set for delivery in summer 2026.
Article (in part): © Royal Wagenborg, additions by SWZ|Maritime / picture by Brenda van de Wal.
