Image credit: Gearbulk.

Gearbulk has finalized agreements for the construction of two additional Open Hatch newbuildings, each with a capacity of 82,300 deadweight tons (dwt), designed to be ammonia/methanol conversion-ready. These vessesl, set to complement the Pulpmax series (units1-4), are to be constructed at CSSC Huangpu Wenchong Longxue Shipyard in Guangzhou, China.The anticipated delivery dates are October 2028 and January 2029.

Consistent with the Pulpmax series, these sister ships will feature advanced technical specifications, including eight holds and hatches, as well as four electro-hydraulic jib cranes. Of these cranes, two have a Safe Working Load (SWL) of 75 metric tonnes each, while the remaining two offer an SWL of 120 metric tonnes each. The vessels will also be equipped with tween decks and boast an overall length of 225 meters and a beam of 36 meters.In alignment with future-proofing strategies, dedicated deck space on either side of the accommodation block has been allocated for the installation of alternative fuel tanks. These specifications underscore Gearbulk’s commitment to innovation, particularly in its pursuit of cleaner maritime fuels and sustainability.