German shipowner Carsten Rehder has placed an order with Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) for the construction of up to eight multipurpose vessels. 

The design of the CORAL7500 by SEDS is optimized for European shortsea trade, offering the highest cargo flexibility and readiness for the future energy transition. The single cargo hold has been maximized for approximately 400,000 cubic feet capacity and can be segregated with two bulkheads. The bulkhead panels may also be used as tween decks. The multipurpose vessels will feature a bridge-forward design, with a flush aft deck and a hatch coverless (open top) notation, providing excellent flexibility for project cargo.

The vessels will be propelled by diesel-mechanic engines with a shaft generator and controllable pitch propeller. The shaft generator will have the capabilities of power-take-off, power-take-in, and power-take-home. This hybrid configuration allows for efficient sailing in combined mode at both lower and higher speeds. It also includes an extra power reserve for ice trade (Ice 1A) or for future battery retrofit. The design will include a biofuel setup at delivery, along with an additional bunker station and tank chain.

The main engine will be supplied by Anglo Belgian Corporation and is currently the only class-approved engine type for methanol and hydrogen retrofit within its power segment today.

The shipowner has worked with GRSE, SEDS, AlgoShip, and DNV, to bring this multipurpose vessels project to life. Victoria Marine Ship Management has provided expert advice throughout the design process.