UK Dredging (UKD), a division of Associated British Ports and operator of the UK’s largest British-owned dredging fleet, has unveiled its newest vessel, the UKD Seadragon.
Launched at Damen Shipyards, the Shoalbuster 2711 water injection dredger (WID) will join UKD’s diverse fleet, which includes three trailing suction hopper dredgers, one grab hopper dredger, and two multipurpose workboats.
“We are eagerly anticipating the UKD Seadragon joining our fleet,” said Mark Pearson, general manager UKD.
“This advanced vessel will allow us to offer our clients a new and complementary dredging service, enhancing the comprehensive solutions we provide to the market.”
This new water injection dredger allows UKD to extend the intervals between hopper dredging operations, improving operational efficiency. Damen has tailored the vessel’s hull to optimise its performance for water injection dredging, while its diesel-electric propulsion system minimises fuel consumption and emissions.
“This innovation marks an important step forward in supporting ABP’s journey toward achieving net-zero emissions,” added Pearson.
The UKD Seadragon features a next-generation Damen E-DOP450 dredge pump, offering a capacity of 4,000m³/h to maximise efficiency while keeping operating costs low.
Additionally, the vessel has an A-frame for added versatility, allowing for easy storage of the WID Skid when not in use.
