International ship classification society, Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass), has just completed the classification of a 9589GT, seven deck vehicle carrier to a livestock carrier named Freesia. This is the second conversion of its type following the successful conversion of its first Lebanese-flagged vessel, Jouri, in April 2020.
The conversion of the Panama-flagged Freesia (previously the City of Barcelona) required meticulous planning and close co-ordination with all stakeholders. Conversion included modifications to the vehicle ramps, installation of pens, bilging arrangements, placement of permanent ballast and sewage systems. All the above modifications have been undertaken without affecting the main hull structure and with minimum interference with the existing arrangements onboard. Following the conversion, the vessel has a total net pen area of approximately 5800m² and 370T of fodder store space.
Both the vessels Freesia and Jouri are in operation and are performing to the satisfaction of the owners, Etab Shipping S.A. Upon successful completion of this project, Owners have entered into another agreement with IRClass towards conversion of the 3rd vessel, Orchid.
“We would like to thank Surveyors from the Dubai and Turkey survey stations for their professionalism in managing this project as well as excellent support from our technical team at Plan Approval Centre with approval plans and timely solutions.” said Rajeev Pratap Rao, IRClass’ Regional Manager for Middle East, Africa and EU.
“Considering the constraints which included minimum affect to the hull structure and the existing systems, while ensuring compliance with the rule requirements, the Plan Approval Centre had to work in close co-ordination with designers, owners and surveyors at site to see that the project is completed successfully. Our surveyors, both at Plan Approval Centre and Survey Station have worked to ensure a hassle-free experience for the shipyard and owner” said Mr. H V Ramesh, Head – Ship Building Project Management at IRClass.
