With a total installed power of some 24,000 kW, the vessel is equipped with two onboard dredge pumps and one submerged dredge pump on the cutter ladder. The maximum dredging depth is 28m. The vessel's approximate length overall is 130m and its beam is 27.8 metres. There will be accommodation for 44 people.

As is essential for all dredgers, this vessel will be characterised by a high level of reliability born of robust construction. There will be a number of innovative and sustainable systems, which include a new generation hydraulic flexible spud carriage to increase workability, IHC Cutter Special pumps for excellent suction power and efficient mixture transport, flexibly designed engines and a flexibly designed deck house to provide comfort in the accommodation and wheelhouse, and environmentally friendly systems and accreditations, including the 'green passport'. The vessel will comply in all respects with the latest and more stringent emission regulations.

IHC Merwede is also building a new, very large trailing suction hopper dredger for Van Oord, the 32,000 m³ capacity 'Vox Dubai', which is due to be launched in 2009. These vessels are part of major Van Oord investment programme to the value of more than EUR 1bn.

Read the full story in the October issue of Maritime Journal.