It’s one of the most significant projects in maritime history, and it’s about to enter its next chapter, with heavy lift vessel Black Marlin bound for Hobart to collect Hull 096 ahead of its delivery voyage to South America.
The Black Marlin will make its way to Tasmania via South Africa and Melbourne, where it will load the world’s largest battery-electric ship before transporting it to its operator, Buquebus.
At 217 metres long and 42 metres wide, the Black Marlin is capable of carrying some of the world’s largest marine structures and will be one of the largest vessels ever to enter the River Derwent.
Incat Chairman Robert Clifford said the arrival of the heavy lift vessel would mark another major step in one of the most groundbreaking shipbuilding projects in the world.
“There is a great deal of interest in Hull 096, and we receive enquiries almost every day from people wanting to know what is happening with the vessel and when it will begin its journey to South America,” Mr Clifford said.
“The arrival of the Black Marlin will be an exciting moment. It signals that we are entering the final stage before the vessel departs Tasmania and begins its journey to its new home across the world.”
“Very few people ever get the chance to see an operation like this up close. The Black Marlin is an extraordinary vessel in its own right and will be one of the largest ships ever to enter the River Derwent.”
“Watching it load Hull 096 will be a spectacular sight and a proud moment for Tasmania. We’ve had people from all over the world following the construction of this vessel, and I think there will be a lot of interest in seeing the next stage of the journey as the vessel prepares to leave for South America.”
Mr Clifford said Incat would provide updates as the Black Marlin makes its way towards Hobart.
“This project has captured international attention from the very beginning, and we know many people are keen to follow the next step in the journey. We’ll be sharing updates on the vessel’s progress as it heads towards Tasmania and prepares to load Hull 096.”
Once in Hobart, the vessel will undertake a carefully planned loading operation. As a semi-submersible heavy lift ship, the Black Marlin can submerge its cargo deck beneath the waterline by taking on ballast. Hull 096 will then be manoeuvred into position above the submerged deck before the ballast water is pumped out, lifting the cargo deck clear of the water. The operation will provide a spectacular sight on the River Derwent and represents one of the most complex maritime movements ever undertaken in Tasmania.
For more information, visit incat.com.au
