The first Conoship International CIP6300 vessel, Wilson Energy I, was launched at Udupi Cochin Shipyard in India on 26 October. It is the first larger ship in a fourteen-vessel programme, following the delivery of six CIP3800 vessels. Norwegian operator Wilson ASA commissioned the vessels.
The CIP6300 design focuses on maximum cargo intake and fuel efficiency within a compact hull. At 99.99 metres in length, the vessel is sized to navigate key inland waterways and regional ports while providing 316,278 cubic feet of hold volume for dry bulk, breakbulk, and project cargo.
The hull lines are hydrodynamically optimised for low resistance, paired with a diesel-electric propulsion that cuts fuel consumption and operational emissions compared to existing vessels in this segment.
Key specifications of the Wilson Energy I are:
- Vessel type: General cargo vessel
- Design series: Conoship CIP6300
- Length overall: 99.99 m
- Deadweight: ~6375 tonnes
- Hold capacity: 316,278 cu.ft / 8956 m3
- Hold configuration: Single box-shaped hold
- Propulsion: Diesel-electric
Also read: Conoship designs versatile floating dry dock
Alignment and cooperation
Building a fourteen-vessel series requires alignment between ship design, shipowner, and shipyard. The project relies on a direct division of responsibilities. Conoship International delivered the naval architecture and structural design packages, focusing on serial construction efficiency and payload capacity.
Wilson ASA integrated operational requirements derived from managing one of Europe’s largest short-sea fleets. Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited, a subsidiary of Cochin Shipyard Ltd., manages the vessel construction. Just like for the recently delivered six-vessel CIP3800 series.
Also read: Conoship reveals battery-electric CIP vessel design
Construction schedule
With the hull now in the water, Wilson Energy I will begin the outfitting phase at the quay, including interior installations, electrical hookups, and primary machinery commissioning. Sea trials will follow later this year ahead of the prospected delivery in December of this year.
Work on the subsequent sister vessels in the series remain underway at UCSL with the keel laying ceremony for the Wilson Energy II and III already having been held.
Also read: Conoship adds container feeder to short-sea portfolio
