One of the most interesting ships to visit Northport called earlier this week to pick up project cargo.

The 89.5-metre mv Rijnvliet sets a strong benchmark for efficient, low-emission shipping. She is equipped with two VentoFoil wind propulsion systems mounted on the bow. These harness wind to create aerodynamic lift, reducing engine load and cutting fuel consumption by up to 10 percent.

The ship’s diesel-electric propulsion system features three 350kW generators, two 374kW electric motors, an enlarged propeller designed for maximum efficiency, and a 250kW bow thruster. An intelligent power management system optimises performance, regulating propeller speed and delivering fuel savings of up to 35 percent along with significantly reduced emissions. Her service speed is around 10 knots.

Launched only in April this year, the Rijnvliet represents a significant step forward in sustainable shortsea shipping. Dutch-designed and built, the vessel was developed through a collaboration between Hudig & Veder Chartering, Hartel Shipping & Chartering BV, and Holland Shipyards Group, with naval architecture by Conoship International.

Rijnvliet was built originally for European shortsea routes but project cargo operations have brought her into New Zealand and Australian waters. She is purpose-built for flexibility; she can carry 5,530 cubic metres of cargo across a full-length tween deck and main hold, with movable reinforced bulkheads and pontoon hatch covers allowing easy adaptation for containers, breakbulk and oversized, open-top loads.

R&R Enterprises were the Ship’s Agent for this week's call at Northport, which was her only call in New Zealand.