News / AAL opts for multipurpose newbuilds despite lucrative demand for boxes

Photo 220513968 / Aal Vessel © Dr. Victor Wong | Dreamstime.com

At a time of massive earnings – thanks to spiralling volumes spilling over from the container segment – Singapore-based breakbulk and heavylift operator AAL plans to add four new 32,000 dwt multipurpose vessels (MPVs) to its fleet.

They will be constructed at CSSC Huangpu Wenchong Shipyard in China, scheduled for delivery in 2024, and each will feature three heavylift cranes capable of a combined 700-tonne maximum lift.

Currently, the multipurpose sector is benefiting from high rates for both containers and breakbulk, although ...