Thecla Bodewes Shipyards delivers 5,050 dwt MV IANA

MV IANA, officially christened and launched on November 11, 2024, in Harlingen, underwent stringent testing in the past weeks to ensure superior performance. With its revolutionary design and ultra-efficient propulsion system, the vessel now strengthens the ship owner’s fleet, advancing its mission to deliver environmentally responsible and cost-effective shipping solutions.

 Precision Engineering Meets Cost-Saving Sustainability

Designed and built entirely by Thecla Bodewes Shipyards’ in-house team, the MV IANA combines cutting-edge technology with a focus on sustainability. Its diesel-electric propulsion system features three generator sets of 532 bkW each and two electric motors of 600 ekW, delivering exceptional power while achieving ultra-low fuel consumption levels.

This engineering precision translates into a direct benefit for shipowners: significantly reduced operational expenses (OPEX). The optimized diesel-electric system not only slashes fuel consumption but also ensures reliability and flexibility, making the vessel an ideal choice for sustainable and economical short-sea shipping.

Setting New Standards with the SALMO Series

As the inaugural vessel in the SALMO series, MV IANA exemplifies forward-thinking ship design by

Thecla Bodewes Shipyards. The modular architecture supports deadweight capacities ranging from

4,500 to 6,500 dwt, making it adaptable to diverse cargo requirements. The vessel exceeds IMO EEDI Phase 3 benchmarks by over 32%, reinforcing its leadership in energy efficiency and emissions reduction.

Furthermore, the MV IANA’s design is future-proofed for alternative fuels such as methanol or hydrogen, ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory standards and offering long-term operational flexibility.

Technical Highlights of MV IANA

The MV IANA features impressive technical specifications, including a length of 87.30 meters, a beam of 13.70 meters, and a draught of 6.30 meters. With a gross tonnage of 2,999 GT, the vessel offers a cargo capacity of 5,050 dwt, equivalent to 208,360 cubic feet (5,900 m³).  

Its innovative hull design, specifically optimized for diesel-electric propulsion, ensures low operational expenses (OPEX) while maintaining high cargo efficiency. These advancements allow shipowners to achieve long-term profitability while meeting stringent environmental standards.

A Shared Vision for Sustainability

Jan van Dam, Director of Van Dam  Shipping, and acting as owner’s representative, expressed his excitement:  "The addition of MV IANA to our fleet underscores our commitment to sustainable shipping solutions. Designed and built in the Netherlands by the talented team at Thecla Bodewes Shipyards, this vessel reflects our vision for innovation, Dutch quality, collaboration, and

environmental responsibility. We are thrilled to offer our clients this state-of-the-art vessel that sets a benchmark for the future of short-sea shipping."

Thecla Bodewes, CEO of Thecla Bodewes Shipyards, remarked:  "The delivery of MV IANA is a proud moment for our team. This vessel is a testament to our focus on forward-thinking, environmentally friendly design and our dedication to supporting the maritime industry's transition to sustainable practices. The MV IANA is designed to perform today and evolve for the demands of the future. The experienced team at  Van Dam Shipping has been instrumental in making this project a success. Their vision, trust, and support were key, and we value the strong partnership we have built. We look forward to a long-term partnership and future successes together."

A Milestone for Dutch Maritime Craftsmanship and Innovation

The delivery ceremony brought together representatives from Thecla Bodewes Shipyards, the shipowner, Van Dam Shipping, and key stakeholders to celebrate this collaborative achievement. The event highlighted the vessel’s potential to shape the future of short-sea shipping through intelligent design and sustainable practices.