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Dutch shipbuilder Holland Shipyards Group christened Waalvliet and Rijnvliet, two new wind-assisted diesel-electric coasters, on April 17, 2025.
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Commissioned by Hartel Shipping and Chartering, the 3,800 dwt vessels are designed for Europe’s shortsea cargo market, with high cargo flexibility and future-ready propulsion.
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These vessels mark the second and third additions to the Vliet series, following the delivery of Maasvliet earlier this year.
At a double christening event held at Holland Shipyards Group’s Werkendam facility, the 89.42-meter-long Waalvliet and Rijnvliet officially joined the fleet of Hartel Shipping and Chartering. These vessels represent a new generation of environmentally conscious and highly adaptable short-sea coasters, according to Offshore Energy.
Designed for Flexibility and European Cargo Markets
Developed by Conoship International, both vessels are engineered to serve a wide range of cargo needs across Europe. Their design includes a tween deck to accommodate project cargo and a 5,530 cbm hold for bulk, breakbulk, or container transport. These features make them ideal for a diverse set of commercial operations within the shortsea segment.
Hybrid Technology and Wind-Assisted Propulsion
The coasters feature a modern diesel-electric drivetrain optimized for fuel efficiency. In a nod to sustainability and innovation, both ships are fitted with sails for wind-assisted propulsion by Econowind, enabling reduced fuel consumption and emissions. The vessels are also future-compatible for potential upgrades to even cleaner propulsion systems.
Continuation of the Vliet Series
The Waalvliet and Rijnvliet are the second and third vessels in the Vliet series. The first, Maasvliet, was delivered in February 2025 and is specialized for offshore cable recovery. After its launch in Nantong, China, it was transported to Rotterdam and completed in the Netherlands. Maasvliet is currently chartered by Subsea Environmental Services for cable retrieval and recycling missions.
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Source: Offshore Energy
