Burlington, ON – With the 2022-23 navigation season underway, marine services provider McKeil Marine has announced the expansion of its fleet following the purchase of the M/V Da Shen (IMO 9167681). This unique shallow-draft, self-discharging vessel, built in 1998 at Shin Kurushima Hiroshima Dockyard, Japan, will complement McKeil’s bulker fleet and further enhance the broad range of services which McKeil offers within its niche markets. Its new name has yet to be announced.

M/V Da Shen (formerly Asia Cement No 7) has four cargo holds and measures 155 metres by 22 metres, with a deadweight of 19,651 MT. Originally designed for the carriage of cement clinker, the vessel is currently docked in China where it will be retrofitted with a new single-point loading system, together with the modifications and upgrades necessary for its intended service.

Delivery to Canada is expected in early 2023. Marine Traffic lists her most recent owner as Ocean Grow International Shipmanagement Consu of Taiwan.

“The purchase of the M/V Da Shen reflects our consistent strategy in fleet expansion,” said McKeil’s CEO Scott Bravener, “and that is to build a fleet that remains flexible and versatile. Our goal is to meet the needs of existing and new customers through unique and innovative marine solutions. This vessel acquisition is positive news as we continue our growth trajectory heading into a new shipping season.”  (Photo from Vesselfinder.com)