Optimarin to Supply Seven OBS to Fednav

Optimarin signed a contract to supply seven of its USCG-approved Optimarin Ballast Systems (OBS) to Fednav, Canada's largest ocean-going dry-bulk shipowning and chartering group. 

Five of the units will be fitted on existing vessels within the 63-strong Fednav fleet, with two deliveries set for newbuilds. The order comes on top of agreements for five units made last year, signaling a growing relationship between the two market leaders.

With recent orders for multiple systems from Höegh Autoliners, Ardmore and USCG (for their new Offshore Patrol Cutter program), Optimarin is moving closer to the 700 units sold mark, with more than 500 installed and operational. Dana Wandschneider, Fednav’s Manager, Owned Fleet, says this proven pedigree, alongside full IMO and USCG approval, was a key factor in the initial decision making process. Since then the company’s attitude and professionalism has led the working relationship to blossom.

Fednav has been in operation for the past 75 years, building a network of offices on four continents and a leading position in both international shipping as well as on the St. Lawrence and Great Lakes. With extensive activity in the Canadian Arctic, the company currently boasts the world’s largest fleet of ice-class bulk carriers.

Optimarin made its initial retrofit delivery to Fednav earlier this year, with global engineering partner Goltens installing an OBS on Federal Kumano at MPG Dolphin Shipyard in Varna, Bulgaria. The first newbuild orders concerned projects at Oshima shipyard in Japan.

OBS has now been successfully retrofitted in over 200 vessels. The system has certification from a comprehensive range of classification organizations, including ABS, BV, DNV-GL, LR & MLIT Japan. Current customers include GulfMark, Hapag Lloyd, Matson Navigation, McDermott, MOL, Saga Shipholding, Seatruck, Technip, and the Royal Netherlands Navy.