Optimarin wins 'huge' deal with Carisbrooke for up to 46 vessels

Ranging between 5,000 and 20,000 dwt, a large number of Carisbrooke’s vessels trade in US waters, where Optimarin’s ballast system (OBS) is anticipated to gain full type-approval from the US Coast Guard (USCG) this year. Installation of the systems is scheduled from 2017.

Optimarin ceo Tore Andersen described it as a "huge development".

“Carisbrooke were quick to see the advantages of doing so, and we’re delighted to add a name of their calibre to our growing client list,” said Andersen.

OBS is one of only a small fraction of UV BWM systems expected to garner USCG type approval, thanks to the difficulty of guaranteeing light penetration in highly turbid water.

Martin Henry, Carisbrooke fleet technical director, said: “USCG compliance is critical for our trading routes, as is the operational and supply chain reliability of the technology itself. However, people are also key. Optimarin’s expertise, and the modular nature of the system, will be essential when it comes to retrofitting vessels with small engine rooms and very limited available space.”