CSSC-Developed Ro-Ro Ship for Algeria Starts Maiden Trip

A bird's-eye view of the BADJI MOKHTAR III passenger ro-ro ship developed by Guangzhou Shipyard International Company Limited for Algeria's state-owned shipping company ENTMV [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

The BADJI MOKHTAR III passenger ro-ro ship went on its maiden voyage on Nov 1.

The 200-meter long and 30-meter wide ship has a designated draft of 6.7 meters and can travel as fast as 24 knots.

It can carry 1,800 passengers and 600 vehicles at one time. Built with 12 stories, the ship has several public spaces for dining, entertainment, duty-free shopping, etc. Algerian cultural elements can also be found on the ship.

The BADJI MOKHTAR III passenger ro-ro ship under construction [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

The ship carried 419 buses, seven trucks and 885 passengers on its maiden trip and traveled for 19 hours to arrive in Marseille, France.

The trip took less time and was cheaper than using other methods of transportation.

The maiden trip showed that the ship can provide a comfortable travel experience for passengers and will improve transportation between North African and European countries. It will support economic and trade development in Algeria.

Developed by Guangzhou Shipyard International Company Limited, a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited (CSSC), it is the first passenger ro-ro ship project between China and Algeria.

The project contract was signed in 2018, the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and is a form of cooperation in the development of the marine economy and shipping industry.

To guarantee smooth operation, Guangzhou Shipyard International Company Limited promised to provide a five-year warranty period and will send two engineers to Algeria for ship maintenance every year.

(Executive editor: Niu Yilin)