ESL Shipping’s new plug-in hybrid vessel Astramar was christened at the Port of Raahe on September 21. Member of the European Parliament Merja Kyllönen performed the christening in connection with the official opening of the port’s new Deep Quay 3.

Astramar is one of ESL Shipping’s 12 Green Coaster vessels. The series of the 5,400 dwt plug-in hybrid vessels was completed in early September with the delivery of Luxomar, the final vessel in the series. The new vessels are a key part of ESL Shipping’s fleet renewal and have been designed specifically for demanding industrial cargoes in Northern European conditions.

On her first voyage, Astramar carried wind turbine components, demonstrating the Green Coasters’ suitability for a wide range of project cargoes. The shipment is a concrete example of how the vessels can serve both established industrial cargo flows and the needs of renewable energy projects.

“The Green Coaster series combines improved energy efficiency, flexible cargo handling and reliable performance in demanding northern conditions. It strengthens our ability to serve Northern European industry while also responding to the growing transport needs of renewable energy projects,” says Mikki Koskinen, Managing Director of ESL Shipping.

The Green Coasters have been designed for a wide range of industrial cargoes. They are well suited to transporting wind turbine blades and other components, as well as demanding project cargoes. Their bridge-forward design provides a large, unobstructed deck area, while the 60-metre clear cargo hold and movable tweendecks provide flexibility for cargoes of varying sizes, including oversized loads.

About ESL Shipping

ESL Shipping is the leading market player in the Northern Bothnian Bay area. Our competitive edge is based on the ability to responsibly secure product and raw material transportation for industries and energy production all year round, even in difficult weather conditions. We have been in business for over 75 years and are a subsidiary of Aspo Plc. The fleet of ESL Shipping consists of around 40 vessels with cargo capacity ranging from 4,000 to 25,000 dwt.