In a remarkable display of maritime innovation, Van Oord’s latest additions to its fleet, the identical trailing suction hopper dredgers Vox Ariane and Vox Apolonia, are collaborating off the coast of Zeeland, in the Netherlands, to fortify the coastline. Powered by sustainable LNG fuel, these vessels are spearheading efforts to protect coastal regions while significantly reducing emissions.
Coastal Protection Initiative
The ongoing project, part of the Netherlands’ Coastline Care programme overseen by Rijkswaterstaat, aims to bolster the Dutch coast against erosion and sea-level rise. Van Oord’s involvement encompasses beach nourishment and trench wall replenishment at key sites such as Westkapelse Zeedijk, Oostgat, and Nieuwvliet-Groede in Zeeland province. By pumping sand to the beach and replenishing coastal channels, the project seeks to stabilize the coastline, safeguarding coastal communities and infrastructure from the effects of erosion.
Sustainable LNG-Powered Operations
What sets this project apart is the utilization of LNG as a fuel source for Vox Ariane and Vox Apolonia. LNG, a cleaner alternative to Marine Gas Oil (MGO), offers significant environmental benefits, being free of sulphur and particulates. Moreover, its combustion process emits substantially lower levels of nitrogen dioxide, aligning with Van Oord’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 in accordance with the Paris Agreement.
Modernization of Fleet
Vox Ariane and Vox Apolonia are part of a trio of LNG-powered trailing suction hopper dredgers set to bolster Van Oord’s fleet. The third sister vessel, Vox Alexia, is scheduled for christening later this year. These vessels represent a significant step towards fleet modernization, featuring energy-efficient design and LNG fuel systems aimed at reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Recognized for their environmental stewardship, the trio received the Dutch Maritime KVNR Shipping Award in 2022, highlighting Van Oord’s leadership in adopting sustainable practices within the maritime industry.
Van Oord’s deployment of LNG-powered sister vessels underscores its commitment to environmental sustainability and technological innovation. By leveraging LNG technology and modernizing its fleet, Van Oord continues to lead the way towards a greener, more resilient maritime future.
