Low-emission low air draft coaster with Ventofoils

Amadeus Schiffahrts- und Speditions GmbH has expanded its charter fleet with the Amadeus Sapphire. At the beginning of October, the innovative low air draft coaster – which is equipped with VentoFoils, among other things – began its maiden voyage from Antwerp to Gijon.

Reasons for modernising the fleet include the high average age of Europe’s shortsea fleet and increasing demands due to the energy transition. The ship’s design contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions. The Amadeus Sapphire is equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system. It is already prepared for the future: the ship can switch from the currently used low-sulphur gasoil (MGO), to alternative, more sustainable energy sources.

VentoFoils

Designed by Conoship, the Amadeus Sapphire has a carrying capacity of 3,500 tonnes. The Groningen-based maritime engineering firm is also the creator of the two VentoFoils mounted on the Amadeus Saffier. These ‘vertical aircraft wings’ convert wind energy directly into thrust for the ship.
Amadeus operates the vessel, owned by Alkmaar shipping company De Bock Maritiem, as part of a long-term charter agreement. The Amadeus Sapphire will sail all kinds of bulk and general cargo on European short sea routes in the North Sea, Baltic Sea, Mediterranean and Black Sea. Thanks to its low cruising line and shallow draught – only 5.00 metres at full load – the vessel can also sail far rivers and other inland waterways. Such as the Rhine and the Albert Canal.
“The commissioning of the Amadeus Sapphire marks a new chapter for our company. We, too, continue to embrace innovations and sustainability in shipping and broadly deploy the partner-like cooperation with Amadeus,” says Gilbèrt de Bock, owner and managing director of De Bock Maritiem.

Read the entire article on in the Binnenvaartkrant.
Image: HGK Shipping.

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