OSK-­ShipTech retained for shipyard phase of LNG ferry

DECEMBER 3, 2014 — Danish naval architect consultancy OSK-­ShipTech A/S and China’s Guangzhou Shipyard International have signed a contract to continue design work on a new RoPax ferry recently ordered by Sweden’s Gotlandsbolaget (see earlier story).

The ferry will service the route between Nynäshamn and Visby, Gotland, and will be one of the world’s most powerful and fastest ferries to be fueled by LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas).

The 200 m long vessel will have a deadweight capacity of approximately 4,800 tonnes, room for about 1,650 passengers and 1,750 trailer lane meters.

Despite the vessel having a 1,200 ton larger displacement, there will be a significant reduction in fuel consumption compared with Gotlandsbolaget’s existing two RoPax vessels MS Visby and MS Gotland—also built by Guangzhou Shipyard International and delivered in 2003.

“We have experienced excellent cooperation between OSK-ShipTech, the owners, GSI and the test tank Marin with lots of in-­house CFD optimization, tank testing and retesting,” says Kristian Carøe Lind, Head of Department at OSK-­ShipTech’s Aarhus headquarters. “I think we have pinched every possible savings out of the hull lines.”

Prior to the award of the shipbuilding contract, OSK-Shiptech was retained by Gotlandsbolaget to prepare contract designs and specifications. Now, working for Guangzhou Shipyard International, the Danish firm will head the basic and detailed design process, primarily on exterior/interior designs, safety and environmental arrangements as well as general project coordination.