IRS Achieves Milestone with Launch of First Korean-Classed Passenger Ferry

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  • Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) celebrates the launch of its first classed vessel for a Korean owner—an inter-island passenger ferry.
  • Miraero Shipbuilding is constructing the vessel for Dea Bu Marine Transport Ltd., who voluntarily chose IRS classification.
  • Final delivery is expected by June 2025, following surveys including sea trials and the inclining experiment.

The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has marked a key achievement with the successful launch of an inter-island passenger ferry at Mokpo, South Korea. This vessel represents the first project from a Korean shipowner to be classed with IRS, signifying the classification society’s strengthening international reach.

Built by Miraero Shipbuilding Ltd. for Dea Bu Marine Transport Ltd., the ferry is designated for inter-island operations along the Korean coastline. In a noteworthy move, the shipowner voluntarily selected IRS as the classification society—despite local regulations not mandating class for such vessels. This reflects the owner’s trust in IRS’s capabilities and opens new avenues for IRS-classed vessels in Korean domestic trade.

Next Steps and Industry Endorsement

Over the coming weeks, the vessel will undergo crucial assessments, including the inclining experiment and sea trials. These will be carried out in close cooperation with the Flag Administration, with final delivery scheduled for the last week of June 2025.

Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Saikat Roychowdhury, Head of Operations at IRS, stated:

“This project is a testament to IRS’s expanding global presence and our growing acceptance among discerning international owners. The decision by Dae Bu Marine Transport to opt for IRS Classification is both an endorsement of our technical capabilities and a significant step forward in serving vessels operating in Korean waters.”

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Source: IRClass