HLV Updates

AAL Houston Transports Seven Barges on Voyage from China to Europe

The AAL Houston multipurpose heavy lift ship is en route from Nantong, China to Rotterdam with seven barges on board, currently positioned near South Africa and expected to arrive in the Netherlands on October 10, according to tracking data.

AAL Shipping's multipurpose heavy lift ship carrying multiple stacked barges from China to Europe.

AAL Shipping’s multipurpose heavy lift vessel transporting stacked barges from China, (Image courtesy of AAL Shipping)

18, September 2025
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AAL Shipping’s newbuild AAL Houston, a multipurpose heavy lift ship, is currently en route to Europe carrying seven barges loaded in Nantong, China, with final discharge scheduled for Rotterdam. According to vessel tracking data, the ship is positioned off South Africa and is expected to arrive at its destination on October 10.

Delivered in 2024, AAL Houston is among the latest additions to the carrier’s fleet. The multipurpose dry cargo ship has a carrying capacity exceeding 150,000 freight tons (FRT). It is fitted with three heavy-lift cranes, each rated at 350 metric tons, which can be combined for tandem lifts up to 700 metric tons.

The vessel is designed with two large box-shaped cargo holds suited for bulk commodities. These holds feature adjustable pontoon triple decks and no centerline bulkhead, allowing flexible stowage of oversized or heavy units along with dry bulk cargoes.

Tags: AAL Houston, AAL Shipping, heavy lift ship, multipurpose vessel, project cargo transport, Rotterdam cargo

Editorial Note:
This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools to enhance clarity and efficiency.
All information has been reviewed and verified by the HMT News editor.

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