EMEA News
UK Firm Orders Six Fuel-Saving Ships
UK shipping and energy services firm Craig Group says it has ordered six new fuel-efficient vessels from Spain's Balenciaga Shipyard for £70million ($109 million).
The order is for four 50-meter-long D class IMT 950 emergency response and rescue vessels (EERVs) and two 58-meter-long F class IMT 958 EERVs.
The F class vessels will feature diesel electric propulsion systems using twin azimuth Stern Drives.
The ships will arrive in 2014 and early 2016, replacing existing tonnage.
"This significant investment is part of our continued drive to operate the largest and most modern wholly British owned fleet engaged in the UK offshore industry," said Douglas Craig, the company's chairman and managing director.
"A new-build programme of this size and scale underlines our commitment to the marine industry and means that we continue to offer our customers an unrivalled service."
The company's fleet comprises 36 vessels, including platform supply, tanker assist, ROV support, and EERVs.
"We are constantly looking at ways of expanding and modernising our fleet.
"The new vessels will feature the most up to date technology and designs, meeting our customers' needs in terms of safety, quality and efficiency."
Diesel-electric technology has been touted for its fuel-saving potential in recent orders by Viking Ocean cruise line, U.S. offshore drilling services company Aries Marine Corporation, and the U.S. Navy.
