VIDEO: Black Marlin arrives in Tasmania for Incat Hull 096 delivery

Boskalis’s Black Marlin will transport Incat’s Hull 096. the world’s largest battery-electric ship, to Buquebus in Argentina. [Photo: Incat Tasmania]

Boskalis’s Black Marlin, one of the world’s largest heavy lift vessels, has arrived in Hobart, Tasmania, ahead of the next major milestone in the delivery of Incat’s revolutionary Hull 096. the world’s largest battery-electric ship, to Buquebus in Argentina.

The arrival of the 217-meter semi-submersible heavy lift ship follows Hull 096’s final journey under its own power on the River Derwent over the weekend, with the 130-meter vessel relocated from the Incat shipyard to Macquarie Wharf ahead of the loading operation. The move marked the final time the world’s largest battery-electric ship would sail in Tasmanian waters under its own power.

Over the coming days, Black Marlin will undergo final preparations before Hull 096 is carefully floated aboard the vessel in what will be one of the most complex maritime operations ever undertaken in Tasmania.

Incat chairman Robert Clifford said the arrival of Black Marlin signaled the beginning of the final stage of Hull 06’s time in Tasmania.

“The arrival of Black Marlin brings us one step closer to delivering the world’s largest battery-electric ship to its customer,” Clifford said. “Over the weekend we watched Hull 096 make her final journey under her own power through the River Derwent, and now our attention turns to the loading operation that will see her begin her voyage to South America.”

“After years of design, engineering and construction, we’re now preparing for one of the most significant maritime operations ever undertaken in Tasmania. It’s another proud milestone for our team and everyone who has contributed to this remarkable project.”

Once loaded, Hull 096 will depart Hobart aboard Black Marlin before being delivered to Buquebus ahead of entering service between Argentina and Uruguay.

The loading operation is expected to take place later this week, subject to weather and operational requirements.