UK-based Graig Group announces orders for seven of its double-hulled bulk carrier designs. Dubbed the “Diamond 53” series, all vessels will be built in China and classed by DNV.
The 53,000 dwt ultra-handymax ships will be delivered in 2005-6. Nine options also included in the deal, which involves prominent Greek, British and Norwegian owners. The vessels will be built at the New Century and Chengxi yards in Shangai, to a design developed jointly by Graig and Carl Bro of Denmark.
Offering owners and charterers significant operational cost savings, the vessels will have double hulls and a high specification intended to address the current concerns raised by IMO and IACS about bulk carrier safety.
"The powerful combination of a robust and practical double hull bulker design, attractive delivery positions and an excellent financial package, combined with Graig's proven Chinese newbuilding experience has attracted these leading owners to order Diamond 53s," says Graig CEO Hugh Williams. "Now that IMO has backed double hulls, and IACS is producing firm guidance pointing to the advantages of double hulls for bulkers, we expect many more to follow their lead. The Diamond 53 design offers owners and charterers operational cost savings, while significantly enhancing safety and environmental protection."
Cost savings for both charterers and owners stem from lower capital costs, quicker discharge and cleaning times, and lower inspection and maintenance costs, says Williams.
Commenting on the orders, DNVs Maritime Industry regional manager for Greater China Andy Westwood says: The Diamond project has seen active DNV involvement from it's conception, as our considerable operational experience was harnessed by the Diamond consortium to provide advice. All the vessels will be classed by DNV and include the full Nauticus package.
He emphasises, "For a bulk carrier design to be successful it must be able to give owners and financiers confidence not only that it will retain its value, but that it is robust and flexible and can offer tangible operational savings.
Chris Williams, Graigs financial director explains, "We have decided on construction in China as we believe that in this fiercely competitive market it is only China that can produce the standards we are seeking at a very competitive price, coupled with attractive financing. Vessels such as these, bought at the right price, retain their value well.
The concept is to produce high quality vessels: we therefore felt that DNV was the obvious choice to assist us in this project and now look forward to continued co-operation in the development of Capesize and Panamax Diamonds.
For more information contact:
Andy Westwood
DNV Regional Manager, Maritime China
Tel: +86 21 6278 8076
Terje Staalstrøm
Head of DNV Class Policy & Quality
Tel: +47 67578999
Issued by
Per Wiggo Richardsen / Stuart Brewer
DNV Corporate Communications
Tel: +47 67579900