Preparations for the launch started early on Tuesday morning when the finished hull was moved out of Niron Staal’s production hall on a multi-wheeled transporter. After travelling the short distance to the quayside, the ferry was transferred to a floating pontoon. Then, representing the vessel’s ceremonial launch, the pontoon was ballasted, thus leaving the ferry free to take to the water for the very first time.
On 1 February, the RoPax hull will be towed to Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld where it will be outfitted ready for final delivery.
Cooperative process
The RoPax 5212 hull is a noteworthy project, says Niron Staal Amsterdam Director Roland Berends: “First and foremost, because it is our first new build contract with Damen. And also because it shows the cooperation that we have had with Damen during the build process – the basic and detailed engineering phases have really demonstrated the expertise and experience that has been shared between Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld and Niron Staal Amsterdam.”
The advantage of this cooperation can be seen in the fact that Niron Staal Amsterdam has competed construction of the fully-painted hull in less than three months. “What’s more, all the hot work been completed; a fact that will make the outfitting process also very efficient.”
Continuing relationship
Niron Staal Amsterdam has fabricated the hull of this passenger ferry in its covered production hall. This provides numerous benefits to the construction process. “By building inside, we can guarantee the highest levels of quality. And, without the influence of the weather, we can complete contracts within the time specified. Furthermore, the whole process is safer because we have the right tools and the right conditions.”
With this first hull construction contract completed, Niron Staal is looking forward to further projects with Damen in the near future. “We are pleased to say that we will be commencing multiple contracts in the spring,” informs Mr Berends. “And, of course, we will be using the lessons learned from this first successful project to continually improve our construction and management processes.”
Vira Maritime