In May, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) welcomed the iron ore ship Spring Passion on her maiden voyage to the West Coast. The ship docked in Saldanha on Friday 26 April and a commemorative plaque was handed by Mzwandile Mhlakela, TNPA’s pollution officer, to the master of the vessel to mark the occasion.
Built earlier this year, the brand-new bulk carrier is sailing under the flag of Panama. She has a gross tonnage of 123 088, a deadweight of 243 450 tons and a length of 320 metres.
With a draught of 18,2 m the vessel was able to take advantage of the largest natural deep-water port in South Africa.
The ship loaded its hold with 220 000 metric tons of iron ore in Saldanha before departing for Oita, Japan.
“TNPA is delighted to welcome another Cape-size bulk carrier vessel to one of the world’s largest iron ore export facilities,” says Vernal Jones, port manager of Saldanha.
“We look forward to providing excellent service to the vessel and its agent Rennies Ships Agency during what we trust will be a long and successful working relationship.
