Damen expands biofuel-ready fleet with second Combi Freighter for Reederei Bernd Sibum

This forms part of the shipbuilder’s hybrid-ready vessel series.

Damen Shipyards Group has delivered the second of four Combi Freighters 3850 to Reederei Bernd Sibum following sea trials in Shanghai, China, as part of a vessel series from the shipbuilder.

The first vessel was delivered in early February and is currently on its maiden voyage to Norway carrying project cargo, the company said in a press release.

The Combi Freighter 3850 operates on 100% biofuel in its standard configuration and is prepared for hybrid propulsion systems.

Reederei Bernd Sibum has also added further features under Germany’s NaMKü programme for the sustainable modernisation of coastal ships, which aims to reduce emissions from short-sea shipping.

The upgrades are co-financed by the programme and the vessel owner, with Mare Trust AG providing equity participation.

The vessels will be fitted with a PTO/PTI hybrid propulsion system, enabling periods of zero-emission operation and shore power connection in port, and will also carry Econowind Ventifoils to reduce fuel consumption.

Damen has carried out Hardware-in-the-Loop testing on onboard systems and automation by linking vessel hardware to a simulated environment before construction, supporting commissioning and system validation.

The vessels will also use the Damen Triton system, which collects and analyses data from sensors across the ship to support operational optimisation and inform future vessel design.

Bern Sibum, Managing Director of Reederei Bernd Sibum, said the company aims to improve environmental performance and vessel usability for charterers and crew.

Remko Bouma, Commercial Director of Damen Cargo Vessels, said cooperation with the operator supported design development and reflected operational requirements.