A Grand Build for Boskalis
Once more, Royal IHC raises the bar in maritime construction, revealing a contract to fabricate a significant trailing suction hopper dredger for Boskalis, the renowned dredging contractor. Scheduled for delivery by mid-2026, this revolutionary TSHD will boast an impressive hopper volume of 31,000 m3, crowning it as one of the largest vessels within the Boskalis’ fleet. The glorious construct will emerge from Royal IHC’s noteworthy shipyard in Krimpen aan den IJssel, the Netherlands.
Pioneering a Future-Proof Design
In a collaboration that formally began in 2020, Royal IHC and Boskalis are divining a ground-breaking design created to withstand the test of time. This novel dredging marvel features an ingenious underwater hull design, an advanced automation system, and a complete diesel-electric installation fitted with ABB Azipod propulsion. The duo aims to develop an “optimal and future-proof” design, intended to be a trailblazer in maritime technology.
Preparing for a Sustainable Future
Emphasizing sustainability, this maritime titan will sport a methanol plant and storage tanks on board, prepped for the use of methanol as a green alternative fuel. The vessel’s dual-fuel main engines, advanced with two-stage turbos, are capable of running on both conventional fuels and eco-friendly alternatives like biodiesel and methanol.
Enhanced Features for Greater Efficiency
The TSHD will wield a double suction pipe equipped with underwater pumps and two discharge pumps with a combined discharge capacity of 15,000 kW. This innovative design aims to elevate efficiency and performance beyond standard levels.
A Ritual of Resourceful Innovation
Reaffirming the steadfast alliance between Boskalis and Royal IHC, the latter’s CEO Jan-Pieter Klaver stated, “The cooperation with Boskalis symbolizes the way we want to serve our clients. Our passion lies in leveraging our skills and drive for continuous innovation to develop effective and sustainable solutions.” Meanwhile, Theo Baartmans, a board management member at Boskalis, spoke on the excitement surrounding the impending build. “This project fortifies the close relationship between Boskalis and Royal IHC. The innovative design and craftsmanship from Royal IHC and its partners signals a significant step in future-proofing our fleet,” he said. He also acknowledged Royal IHC’s past success in building dredges for Boskalis, notably the large cutter suction dredges Krios and Helios, delivered in 2020 and 2017, respectively. This new venture is poised to continue the legacy of fruitful collaboration and innovative design.
