Boskalis’ semi-submersible heavy lift vessel Black Marlin is heading to Hobart, Tasmania, to collect Hull 096, the world’s largest battery-electric ship, before its delivery voyage to South America.
The vessel is scheduled to travel via South Africa and Melbourne before arriving in Tasmania to load the ship, which was built by Incat for South American ferry operator Buquebus.
At 217 m in length and 42 m in beam, Black Marlin is designed to transport large marine structures and offshore assets. Its arrival is expected to make it one of the largest vessels ever to enter the River Derwent.
According to Incat Chairman Robert Clifford, the arrival of Black Marlin marks the final phase before the battery-electric vessel begins its journey to its future operator in South America. The project has attracted attention from maritime stakeholders and industry observers following the construction of Hull 096 in Tasmania.
Once in Hobart, Black Marlin will carry out a semi-submersible loading operation. The vessel will ballast down to submerge its cargo deck below the waterline, allowing Hull 096 to be positioned above the deck. The ballast water will then be discharged, raising the deck and securing the vessel for transport.
The loading operation is expected to be one of the most complex maritime movements undertaken in Tasmania. Following completion, Black Marlin will begin transporting the battery-electric vessel across the Pacific to South America for delivery to Buquebus.
Incat said updates will be provided as Black Marlin approaches Tasmania and prepares for the loading operation.
