Bulk Carrier for Panama-Based Shipping Company Launched

 Tokyo, December 16, 2005 – Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation today launched a bulk carrier for Panama-based Forever Shipping, S.A. The ship, identified as Kawasaki hull No. 1564 and the seventh 55,500 DWT bulk carrier developed by Kawasaki Shipbuilding, will be delivered in February 2006 after outfitting at the quay.

 The 189.9 m vessel is powered by a lightweight, compact Kawasaki-MAN B&W 6S50MC-C high-output engine. A new proprietary bow designed to reduce wave resistance allows the ship to operate with less fuel. The vessel has a flush deck with forecastle and five holds that are designed for optimum transport of grains, coals, ores and steel products. Four 30 ton deck cranes are installed in the center in between hatch covers to enable cargo loading and unloading in ports where no cargo handling facilities are available.