The energy-efficient EasyMax design has resulted in a series of six EasyMax vessels in the Royal Wagenborg fleet. The design has now been upgraded to a next generation of 14,000-DWT fuel-flexible EasyMax vessels. Wagenborg has already contracted Royal Niestern Sander to build six such vessels.
The first EasyMax was the Egbert Wagenborg, delivered in 2017. This vessel did not go unnoticed and was immediately distinguished with the KVNR Maritime Shipping Award 2017. It was followed by the Máxima in 2021, and the Amalia and Alexia in 2024. The EasyMax 5 was ordered in January 2024 and is expected to be delivered by the end of 2025. The sixth in the series is set for delivery in summer 2026. All EasyMax vessels have been built at Niestern Sander.
Also read: Wagenborg orders sixth EasyMax at Niestern Sander
New fuel-flexible design
The next generation of EasyMax vessels is designed with a fuel-flexible capability, ensuring they are future-proof. These general cargo vessels will be able to operate on bio-MGO (marine gas oil) and will be prepared for alternative fuels such as methanol, ammonia and LNG.
In addition to their advanced fuel capabilities, the new EasyMax vessels will feature enhanced shore power connectivity and improved energy management systems on board. These advancements are to maintain EasyMax’s position as a world leading vessel in the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI). With this design, Wagenborg commits to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions further and increasing overall operational efficiency.
Also read: INEOS and Royal Wagenborg to build EasyMax CO2 carrier
Six vessels ordered at Niestern Sander
Wagenborg has commissioned Dutch shipyard Royal Niestern Sander to construct six new vessels of this next-generation EasyMax design. The keel for these vessels has already been laid and marks a significant step in the company’s fleet renewal strategy.
General specifications of the next-generation EasyMax are:
- Length over all: 149.95 m
- Beam: 15.95 m
- Max draught: 8.60 m
- DWT: 14,300 tonnes
- Hold volume: 625,000 cbft
- Ice class: Finnish/Swedish 1A
Also read: Wagenborg transports aft ship of its first CO2 carrier
Original 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.
The EasyMax design is also used as a platform for various ship types. For example, currently under construction is the first dedicated European built offshore EasyMax CO2 carrier.
Source article and picture: Royal Wagenborg.
